{"product_id":"kuraca","title":"Kuraca","description":"\u003ch1\u003e\u003cem\u003eCroton lechleri\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKuraca — The Blood of the Dragon Tree, Sacred Amazonian Wound Healer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBotanical Identification\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Kuraca, Sangre de Drago, Sangre de Grado, Dragon's Blood, Blood of the Dragon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLatin Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eCroton lechleri\u003c\/em\u003e Mull. Arg.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eParts Used:\u003c\/strong\u003e Latex (resin) harvested from the bark\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Upper Amazon Basin — Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Bolivia, and Brazil. Thrives in tropical lowland forests between 100 and 2,000 meters elevation. The tree grows rapidly, reaching 10 to 20 meters in height, and produces a deep crimson-red latex when the bark is scored.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAppearance:\u003c\/strong\u003e The fresh resin is a viscous, blood-red liquid that dries to a dark, glossy film upon contact with skin. It has a faintly astringent, earthy taste and virtually no aroma until applied topically, at which point a subtle resinous warmth becomes apparent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCultural and Historical Use\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSangre de Drago holds a position of extraordinary importance across indigenous Amazonian medicine systems. The Shuar, Achuar, Kichwa, and Shipibo-Conibo peoples have used the red latex for centuries as a first-response wound treatment — applied directly to cuts, burns, insect bites, and post-childbirth tissue. Peruvian \u003cem\u003ecuranderos\u003c\/em\u003e refer to it as \"liquid bandage from the forest.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTraditional applications extend well beyond wound care. Amazonian communities use the resin internally for gastric ulcers, diarrhea, and intestinal inflammation. Women in the Peruvian highlands use diluted sangre de drago as a vaginal wash after childbirth to promote tissue repair. The Kichwa people of Ecuador apply it to gum tissue after tooth extraction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe name \"Dragon's Blood\" is shared with resins from several unrelated Old World trees (\u003cem\u003eDracaena\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eDaemonorops\u003c\/em\u003e), but \u003cem\u003eCroton lechleri\u003c\/em\u003e is pharmacologically distinct. Its ethnobotanical profile was brought to Western attention by researchers like Dr. Rainer Bussmann and through the development of crofelemer (Mytesi), an FDA-approved pharmaceutical derived directly from this tree's latex.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eKey Bioactive Compounds\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellpadding=\"8\" cellspacing=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n    \u003cth\u003eCompound\u003c\/th\u003e\n    \u003cth\u003eClass\u003c\/th\u003e\n    \u003cth\u003ePrimary Action\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eTaspine\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eAlkaloid\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eStimulates fibroblast migration and wound closure; anti-inflammatory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eProanthocyanidins (SP-303 \/ Crofelemer)\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eOligomeric polyphenols\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eRegulates chloride ion secretion in intestinal cells; potent antidiarrheal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eCatechins and Epicatechins\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eFlavonoids\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eAntioxidant protection; supports vascular integrity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eLignans (including 3',4-O-dimethylcedrusin)\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003ePhenylpropanoids\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eWound healing acceleration; collagen cross-linking support\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eDiterpenes\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eTerpenoids\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eAntimicrobial activity against gram-positive bacteria\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow It Works in the Body\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWound Healing and Tissue Repair:\u003c\/strong\u003e Taspine, the primary alkaloid, has been shown in laboratory studies to promote the migration of fibroblasts — the cells responsible for producing collagen and rebuilding tissue matrix. When applied topically, the resin forms a thin protective film that simultaneously shields the wound from pathogens and delivers taspine directly to damaged tissue. The lignan fraction accelerates collagen cross-linking, supporting scar formation and tensile strength.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAntidiarrheal Mechanism:\u003c\/strong\u003e The proanthocyanidin fraction (SP-303, later developed as crofelemer) inhibits two chloride ion channels in intestinal epithelial cells: the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) and calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCC). By reducing chloride secretion into the intestinal lumen, it decreases the osmotic draw of water, directly addressing secretory diarrhea without slowing gut motility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnti-inflammatory Activity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Both taspine and the proanthocyanidin complex reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibit NF-kB activation in cell culture models. This dual action — controlling inflammation while promoting repair — explains its traditional effectiveness on burns and inflamed mucosal tissue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAntimicrobial Properties:\u003c\/strong\u003e The diterpene and phenolic fractions demonstrate activity against \u003cem\u003eStaphylococcus aureus\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eBacillus subtilis\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eHelicobacter pylori\u003c\/em\u003e in vitro, supporting the traditional use for gastric complaints and infected wounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDose Guidelines\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellpadding=\"8\" cellspacing=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n    \u003cth\u003eApplication\u003c\/th\u003e\n    \u003cth\u003eSuggested Use\u003c\/th\u003e\n    \u003cth\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eTopical (wounds, burns, bites)\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eApply 2–5 drops directly to clean skin; allow to dry\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eForms a protective film within 30–60 seconds. Reapply 2–3 times daily.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eInternal (GI support)\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003e3–5 drops in a small glass of water, 1–3 times daily\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eTraditional dose for diarrhea and gastric inflammation. Short-term use preferred.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eOral rinse (gum\/mouth tissue)\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003e2–3 drops in 1 oz warm water; swish and spit\u003c\/td\u003e\n    \u003ctd\u003eTraditional use after dental procedures or for mouth sores.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePreparation and Uses\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDirect Topical Application:\u003c\/strong\u003e The most common and straightforward use. Score or open the resin bottle, apply drops to the affected area, and rub gently. The latex turns white and forms a thin film as it interacts with skin proteins.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiluted Internal Dose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Add drops to water or juice. The resin disperses into a pale pink emulsion. Traditionally taken on an empty stomach for gastric complaints.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSalve or Balm Base:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mix several drops into a carrier oil (coconut or olive) or beeswax-based balm for a slower-release topical preparation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOral Hygiene Rinse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dilute in warm water for mouth sores, gum inflammation, or post-extraction support.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eOptimal Context for Use\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eCuts, scrapes, abrasions, and minor burns where a protective wound film is desired\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eInsect bites and stings — traditional Amazonian first response\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eAcute or traveler's diarrhea — secretory diarrhea in particular\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eGastric inflammation and mild ulcer-related discomfort (traditional use)\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003ePost-extraction dental care and canker sores\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eSkin irritation from rashes, eczema flares, or friction wounds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eSustainability and Ethical Harvesting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCroton lechleri\u003c\/em\u003e is a fast-growing pioneer species that colonizes forest gaps and disturbed areas. When harvested responsibly — scoring the bark rather than felling the tree — individual trees can produce latex for many years. However, overharvesting through deep cuts or ring-barking kills trees and degrades local populations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEthical sourcing prioritizes community-managed harvest systems in Peru and Ecuador, where indigenous knowledge guides sustainable tapping rotations. Organizations like the Amazon Conservation Association have worked to develop fair-trade latex collection programs. When purchasing, look for resin sourced from community cooperatives rather than industrial clear-cut operations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eSafety and Cautions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePregnancy and Nursing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Internal use is not recommended during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data. Topical use on small areas is generally considered acceptable in traditional practice.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrug Interactions:\u003c\/strong\u003e The resin may theoretically interact with anticoagulant medications due to its effects on tissue repair pathways. Consult a healthcare provider if taking blood thinners.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAllergic Sensitivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Euphorbiaceae family plants can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Test a small area of skin before widespread topical use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInternal Duration:\u003c\/strong\u003e Traditional practitioners typically use internal doses for acute episodes (days to a few weeks), not as a long-term daily supplement.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eQuality Concerns:\u003c\/strong\u003e Authentic \u003cem\u003eCroton lechleri\u003c\/em\u003e resin should be deep crimson-red and turn white when rubbed into skin. Brown, thin, or watery products may be adulterated or oxidized.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis product has not been evaluated by the FDA. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eReferences\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eUbillas R, et al. \"SP-303, an antiviral oligomeric proanthocyanidin from the latex of \u003cem\u003eCroton lechleri\u003c\/em\u003e (Sangre de Drago).\" \u003cem\u003ePhytomedicine\u003c\/em\u003e. 1994;1(2):77-106.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eVaisberg AJ, et al. \"Taspine is the cicatrizant principle in Sangre de Grado extracted from \u003cem\u003eCroton lechleri\u003c\/em\u003e.\" \u003cem\u003ePlanta Medica\u003c\/em\u003e. 1989;55(2):140-143.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eJones K. \"Review of Sangre de Drago (\u003cem\u003eCroton lechleri\u003c\/em\u003e) — a South American tree sap in the treatment of diarrhea, inflammation, insect bites, viral infections, and wounds.\" \u003cem\u003eJournal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine\u003c\/em\u003e. 2003;9(6):877-896.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eCottreau J, et al. \"Crofelemer for the treatment of secretory diarrhea.\" \u003cem\u003eExpert Review of Gastroenterology and Hepatology\u003c\/em\u003e. 2012;6(1):17-23.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eBussmann RW, Sharon D. \"Traditional medicinal plant use in Northern Peru: tracking two thousand years of healing culture.\" \u003cem\u003eJournal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine\u003c\/em\u003e. 2006;2:47.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFinal Note\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKuraca — Sangre de Drago — is one of the Amazon's most remarkable and well-documented medicinal resins. Its journey from indigenous wound care to an FDA-approved pharmaceutical (crofelemer\/Mytesi) represents a rare validation of traditional knowledge by modern pharmacology. Whether applied to a fresh cut on the trail or taken internally for acute digestive distress, this blood-red latex carries centuries of Amazonian healing wisdom in every drop. Respect the source, respect the tree, and let the Dragon's Blood do its ancient work.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sugar Creek Trading Company","offers":[{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 25g","offer_id":51057479581994,"sku":null,"price":9.27,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 50g","offer_id":51057479614762,"sku":null,"price":15.76,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 100g","offer_id":51057479647530,"sku":null,"price":29.63,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 250g","offer_id":51057479680298,"sku":null,"price":62.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 500g","offer_id":51057479713066,"sku":null,"price":117.12,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 1kg","offer_id":51057479745834,"sku":null,"price":220.19,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 2kg","offer_id":51057479778602,"sku":null,"price":418.35,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 5kg","offer_id":51057479811370,"sku":null,"price":993.59,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 10kg","offer_id":51057479844138,"sku":null,"price":1887.81,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 25kg","offer_id":51057479876906,"sku":null,"price":4483.55,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 50kg","offer_id":51057479909674,"sku":null,"price":8518.75,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"cut\/sifted \/ 100kg","offer_id":51057479942442,"sku":null,"price":16185.63,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0783\/3547\/6010\/files\/kuraca_ba7441e7-5f66-4b76-9c14-791902c86680.png?v=1772271713","url":"https:\/\/sugarcreektradingcompany.com\/products\/kuraca","provider":"Sugar Creek Trading Company","version":"1.0","type":"link"}