Cahos Cestrum
Image: Ingrid P. Lin (cc0)
NameCahos Cestrum
Scientific NameCestrum cahosianum Urb. & Ekman
Common NamesCahos Cestrum
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to Haiti, this species is found in mountainous forested regions at elevations around 1400 meters. It typically grows on laterite and limestone soils.
Parts Usedleaf
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory,antimicrobial
Traditional UsesNo specific traditional medicinal uses for *Cestrum cahosianum* are widely documented. However, other species within the *Cestrum* genus are sometimes used in traditional medicine for various ailments, often with significant caution due to their known toxicity.
Active Constituentssteroidal saponins, alkaloids
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction
Contraindications & WarningsDue to the known presence of toxic compounds (steroidal glycoalkaloids) in many *Cestrum* species, internal use is generally contraindicated. Caution should be exercised with any preparation, and specific toxicity data for *Cestrum cahosianum* is limited.
Cultivation NotesThis species is adapted to tropical mountainous environments, preferring well-drained laterite and limestone soils. It would likely require warm temperatures and conditions similar to its native habitat in Haiti.
Rarityuncommon
Description
Cestrum cahosianum is a woody shrub or small tree, characterized by its alternate, simple, entire leaves, which are typically lanceolate to elliptic in shape. The herbarium specimen displays a branch with numerous dried leaves, indicative of a perennial growth habit.
