Family: Apocynaceae

Genus: Aspidosperma

Species: excelsum

Common names: avore de carapana, arvore dos mosquitos, canalete, carapanauba, jaroeroe, musara, paddle tree, paddlewood

General Description: Remo caspi is a large canopy tree with extensive reinforcement to support its height. Some of its root system is above ground and provides immense support for this huge tree. Remo caspi grows to the top of the Amazon Rainforest, up to 100 feet. Small white flowers emerge on this tree and a fruit capsule also grows from its branches. "Remo caspi" is Spanish for 'paddle' wood and makes reference to its large roots.

Uses: The wood from the roots is used to make canoe paddles because it is both light weight and durable. In traditional tribal and herbal medicine, Remo caspi has been used for a variety of ailments. In Brazil, it is an agent used for intestinal distress, both gas and as an aid for digestion; thus it is a carminative. Brazilians also use this herb for bronchitis, inflammation, fever, diabetes, cancer and malaria. Some reports also suggest Remo caspi has antioxidant properties. It has been used widely in the Amazon to treat malaria, sexual problems, coughs and bronchitis. Other South American countries use the bark of this tree for a variety of ailments: some Indian people chew on the bark to relieve toothaches; others use it to prevent cavities, treat malaria and hepatitis. In Peruvian herbal medicine, the root bark is used as an aphrodisiac, antiseptic, antibiotic, and wound-healer; it is also used in Peru to treat malaria, high blood pressure and bronchitis.