In Danger: Sangre de Grado

The bark and resin of Sangre de Grado (Dragon`s Blood) has been used as a local medicine by indigenous peoples in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru for generations. Sangre de grado grows in the upper Amazon area of the Tropical Andes, which is one of the richest and most biologically diverse regions in the world. Sadly, this plant is one of many medicinal plants endangered by rapid deforestation.

Sangre de Grado (Croton lechleri) takes its name from the red resin that oozes from the bark when branches are cut. Scientific research has confirmed the plant`s healing properties. Sangre de Grado is used externally to heal wounds, rashes, and insect bites and internally for viral and bacterial infections, hemorrhaging, cancer, and ulcers.

Logging in the Tropical Andes threatens to decimate a rich repository of biodiversity. Bolivia alone has lost half of its original forest cover. With forests being destroyed at a rate of 1,500 square kilometers per year, Bolivia has one of the world`s highest rates of deforestation.

E-LAW partners at SBDA are currently working with indigenous communities in Bolivia to promote sustainable forest management, which is crucial for the survival of endangered plants like Sangre de Grado.