Jatropha Curcas

Growing on almost any terrain, even on gravelly, sandy or saline soils in tropical America, this large ornamental shrub bears ivy-like leaves, and clusters of yellowish-green flowers and large yellow fruits. Although the plant and seeds are toxic, it is a plant of many uses, being used to manufacture soap, cosmetics, fuel and medicines. It is also being cultivated for biodiesel oil including its use as an airline fuel. In Nigeria, tests with 200 and 400 mg/kg, physic nut extract produced pain relief that compared well to aspirin, the researchers believing the extract works through both central and peripheral pain mechanisms. Morphine and similar drugs act on the central nervous system, whilst aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, have an impact on both the peripheral and central nervous systems. The findings of the study are important because new, more effective pain-relieving drugs without addiction and side effect issues are needed.