Taxus Baccata

Taxus baccata is a tree commonly known as Yew, or in Hindi, Talispatra. It is also called the English Yew or European Yew.

Where It Grows (Habitat):

This tree naturally grows in western, central, and southern Europe, as well as in northwest Africa, northern Iran, and southwest Asia.

What It Looks Like (Description):

• It is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that stays green all year.

• It grows about 10-20 meters tall (sometimes up to 28 meters).

• The bark is thin, scaly, and brown, and peels off in small flakes.

• The leaves are flat, dark green, and poisonous — about 1-4 cm long.
  They grow in two neat rows along the branches.

Important:
Most parts of this tree, especially the leaves, are highly poisonous if eaten.

Traditional Uses:

• In the year 1021, famous doctor Avicenna used this plant as a heart medicine, calling it Zarnab.

• The leaves are used to make Paclitaxel, a medicine for cancer treatment.
  Earlier, this medicine was made from the bark of another Yew tree species, which led to environmental concerns. Using the leaves of European Yew became a better and safer option.

• In the Central Himalayas, people have used this plant to help treat breast and ovarian cancer.

Modern Medicinal Uses:

• Taxus baccata contains a chemical called Taxol, which is being studied for its anti-cancer properties.

• Although the amount of Taxol in this tree is small, it’s still useful for research.

• This plant is sometimes used for chest problems like cough and asthma, but only by experts because it’s very poisonous.

Note:
It should never be used without a doctor’s advice because of its strong toxic effects.

Therapeutic Uses:

Different parts of the plant (except the soft fruit part) have these effects:

• Relieves muscle spasms

• Fights cancer cells

• Strengthens the heart

• Promotes sweating

• Helps bring menstruation

• Clears phlegm

• Acts as a pain reliever

• Helps with constipation

Medicinal uses include:

• Internally:
  Used for asthma, bronchitis, indigestion, hiccups, rheumatism, and epilepsy.

• Externally:
  The leaves are added to steam baths to relieve joint pains and rheumatism.

• In Homeopathy:
  A remedy made from young shoots and berries is used for conditions like bladder infections, skin problems, headaches, heart issues, kidney troubles, and joint pains.

Caution:
This plant is very poisonous and should be used only under expert supervision.