A bulk-forming laxative used to treat constipation.
It is especially useful when stools are small and hard.
Sterculia should only be used if fibre intake cannot be increased; adequate fluid intake must be maintained to avoid intestinal obstruction.
Side effects may include flatulence, bloating, and gastrointestinal obstruction or impaction.
Sterculia foetidaDescription: Sterculias are tall trees, rising in some instances to 30 meters. Their leaves are either undivided or palmately lobed. Their flowers are red or purple. The fruit of all sterculias is similar in aspect, with a red, segmented seedpod containing many edible black seeds.Habitat and Distribution: There are over 100 species of sterculias distributed through all warm or tropical climates. They are mainly forest trees.Edible Parts: The large, red pods produce a number of edible seeds. The seeds of all sterculias are edible and have a pleasant taste similar to cocoa. You can eat them like nuts, either raw or roasted.CAUTIONAvoid eating large quantities. The seeds may have a laxative effect.
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