A small, shrubby evergreen tree growing to 5 m in height with leaves and berries that resemble holly.

Anticancerous, antacid, antiulcerous, menstrual stimulant, detoxifier

Tropical Plant Database

Cangorins, maytansinoids

For the treatment of indigestion, chronic gastritis, dyspepsia, anemia, stomach and gastric ulcers, cancer, constipation, liver disorders, and as a contraceptive (leaves)

Water extracts of espinheira santa may have estrogenic effects and reduce fertility in females. Women seeking treatment for infertility, attempting to get pregnant, or those with estrogen positive cancers should not use this plant.