Barbados nut
In danish Barbados nut is called "Purgernød" or "purging nut”. The name comes from the plant’s former use as a medicinal remedy. The word purgere means to cleanse or purge, and in the past the seeds were used in small quantities as a powerful laxative. The seeds resemble nuts, which explains the second part of the name, “nut.” Today, the plant is not used in medicine, as the seeds – like the rest of the plant – are highly toxic.
Barbados nut is cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It is a very hardy plant that can grow in poor, dry soils. The seeds are rich in oil, which can be used as biodiesel. It also plays a role in the development of alternative fuels, including aviation fuel. For this reason, Jatropha is included in, among others, India’s plans to reduce CO₂ emissions.
Facts:
- Greenhouse location: Tropical house
- Danish name: Purgernød
- Latin name: Jatropha curcas
- Family: The spurge family / Euphorbiaceae
- Natural habitat: Amazon rainforest
Learn more about other plants here.