Herb
Jaborandi (Pilocarpus)
A South American shrub whose active compound, pilocarpine, is used medically to support eye pressure and saliva flow.
🛑 RemedyRank warns against this
Pilocarpine in an uncontrolled dose slows the heart and floods the lungs.
This page exists so the reasons are written down plainly, not because the practice is recommended. Nothing is sold here. If a doctor has prescribed something for a diagnosed condition, follow their guidance — that is a decision between you and them, and it is a different thing from trying this at home.
⤢📊 How it ranks (our editor score) — 44/100Tap to see the breakdown
🌱 What it is
A tropical shrub whose leaves contain pilocarpine, a compound used in prescription eye drops and medications for dry mouth.
📜 Where it comes from
Jaborandi has been used by Indigenous peoples of Brazil for generations, valued for its ability to induce sweating and salivation. Its active compound, pilocarpine, was isolated by European chemists in the 1870s after South American plant medicines drew scientific interest, and it quickly became a conventional medicine for eye and salivary conditions. It stands as an example of a traditional plant remedy whose active compound moved directly into mainstream pharmaceutical use.
🥄 How to use it
Use only as a standardized, prescription-strength pilocarpine preparation under professional supervision — this is not a home herbal remedy to prepare yourself.
How much: As directed by a healthcare provider or on the product label
Why it works: Pilocarpine stimulates certain nerve receptors, which can lower pressure inside the eye and increase saliva production.
⚠️ Cautions
- Should only be used as a prescription medication under a doctor's or ophthalmologist's supervision, not as a raw herbal preparation.
- Can cause excessive sweating, drooling, and low blood pressure.
- Avoid with asthma, certain heart conditions, or narrow-angle eye conditions without medical guidance.
📚 Learn more
🌿 Deeper natural detail
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🩺 The conventional view
💬 Ask Remy about Jaborandi (Pilocarpus)
📚 Resource confidence
Based on mentions in health references
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