S+ Stimulant: Dracaena Cinnabari

 

The Dracaena Cinnabari (also known as the Socotra dragon tree or dragon blood tree) is a dragon tree native to the Socotra archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The dragon blood tree is the most famous and distinctive plant of the island because of its unique and strange appearance. The evergreen species is named after its dark red resin that is known as ‘dragon’s blood’.

Dragon’s blood is also well known for its multiple applications. It can be used as a dye, breath freshener, lipstick, violin varnish, and toothpaste, just to name a few. Also, local inhabitants of Socotra use the resin as a medicine, especially as a coagulant, a cure for diarrhoea, dysentery diseases, and for lowering fever. And for some, dragon’s blood is even used in ritual magic and alchemy!

The Dracaena Cinnabari is one of many plants and trees whose properties continue to be used for a multitude of purposes including medicinally. In fact, it is estimated that there are still thousands of undiscovered / not yet researched species of plant with potential application, with many biologists believing that the cure to serious diseases such as HIV and cancer is hidden in the depths of the rainforest.

An important reminder of the incredible power and potential of nature, how exciting to ponder that there are still thousands upon thousands of uncovered secrets out there. Cultures such as that of Socotra understand the importance of working harmoniously with nature, and that maintaining this harmony will continue to prove beneficial for mankind and nature alike.

 

W.K. 2014