Botanical atlas
Sangre de Drago
Croton lechleri
For generations, healers among the Shipibo-Conibo and other Amazonian peoples have scored the bark of this rainforest tree to collect its thick, blood-red latex, prizing it as one of the forest's great first-aid remedies. The sap was traditionally dabbed directly onto cuts, insect bites, and irritated skin, where it dries into a natural protective seal. Taken in small, well-diluted amounts, it was also used traditionally to settle an upset stomach after long river journeys. Its striking color and quick-acting reputation made it one of the most traded botanical remedies to come out of the Amazon.
In tradition.
For generations, healers among the Shipibo-Conibo and other Amazonian peoples have scored the bark of this rainforest tree to collect its thick, blood-red latex, prizing it as one of the forest's great first-aid remedies. The sap was traditionally dabbed directly onto cuts, insect bites, and irritated skin, where it dries into a natural protective seal. Taken in small, well-diluted amounts, it was also used traditionally to settle an upset stomach after long river journeys. Its striking color and quick-acting reputation made it one of the most traded botanical remedies to come out of the Amazon.
Traditional preparations.
A gentle, well-diluted application traditionally used on minor cuts, scrapes, and insect bites to help keep the area clean while it heals.
Traditionally, 2 to 3 drops of sangre de drago latex are stirred into 1 tablespoon of clean water, then dabbed lightly over the cleaned skin with a cotton pad and allowed to air dry.
A very mild traditional preparation used occasionally to help settle a queasy stomach.
Traditionally, a single drop of the latex is stirred into a small glass (about 100 ml) of water and sipped slowly, taken no more than once.
Safety.
This latex can irritate skin or trigger an allergic reaction, so dilute it and patch-test before use, and don't apply it to deep, large, or infected wounds. Avoid internal use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Our sister app HerbLens identifies sangre de drago from a photo and keeps its full botanical portrait: growing guide, harvest notes, and look-alike warnings.
View on HerbLensAsk HerbSense how sangre de drago is traditionally used and what to know before trying anything at home.
Ask about Sangre de DragoHerbSense shares traditional herbal knowledge for education, not diagnosis or treatment. Herbs can interact with medicines and conditions. Speak with your doctor before acting on anything here, and seek care promptly for anything severe, sudden, or worsening.