Quassia wood, chips

Quassia wood, derived from the Quassia amara tree native to the tropical regions of the Americas, is known for its bitter taste and its traditional medicinal uses. The wood is often used to make a bitter tonic or extract that is believed to stimulate appetite, aid in digestion, and help expel intestinal worms. Quassia wood contains compounds called quassinoids, which are responsible for its bitter taste and are believed to have medicinal properties. These compounds are also thought to stimulate bile production, which can aid in the digestion of fats.

In addition to its use in traditional medicine, quassia wood is also used in some commercial insecticides and organic gardening products. The bitter compounds in quassia wood are believed to act as a natural insect repellent, making it useful for controlling pests in gardens and agricultural settings. Quassia wood chips can be steeped in water to make a bitter tea, or they can be ground into a powder and used in various herbal preparations. As with any herbal remedy, it's important to use quassia wood chips with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.