Common Name Standardized: Jamaica dogwoodOther: fishpoison tree Botanical Name Piscidia piscipula (L.) Sarg.Plant Family: Fabaceae Synonyms Piscidia erythrina Overview IntroductionDogwood is a tropical shrub in the legume family with its native roots in the West Indies, Mexico, South Texas, Central America, and parts of South America.and parts of the Pacific Northwest. It gained its nickname "fish poison tree" from the West Indian practice of filling an open container with its branches and then dumping the container into a lagoon. As the water become infused with isoflavones from the tree, passing fish "fall asleep" in the box and can be easily caught.ConstituentsIsoflavones, organic acids, beta-sitosterol, tannins.Parts UsedBarkTypical PreparationsTea, tincture and sometimes encapsulated.SummaryAmong other uses, it is known to contain a substance known as rotenone, which has been used in insecticide to control lice and fleas. It is believed to be relatively harmless to warm-blooded mammals. Precautions Specific: Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.