Colocynth, commonly known as "bitter apple" in the Middle East, is the fruit of a vine which grows in dry, sandy soil. The lemon-size fruit is a cousin to the watermelon.

Andrographolide is an extremely bitter substance extracted from the stem and leaves of the andrographis paniculata. When in bloom, Andrographis exhibits small white flowers. The plant is grown for medicinal purposes in China and India. Andrographolide has been shown to be effective against certain cancers and is an effective purgative.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

Medicinal
Colocynth is used as a powerful laxative and cathartic. The powdered extract is extremely bitter substance and a natural bitterant. The powder of colocynth can be used externally in aloe with remarkable success against parasitic worms. The pulp can be used as an enema.