Compound Monograph
Crofelemer
Crofelemer is a plant-derived proanthocyanidin medicine from the red sap of the dragon's blood tree, used to treat diarrhoea.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
Crofelemer is a naturally occurring proanthocyanidin (polymeric), found in Dragon's blood tree. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Crofelemer is a purified proanthocyanidin polymer extracted from the red latex (dragon’s blood) of the South American tree Croton lechleri. It acts in the gut by inhibiting chloride channels, reducing the secretion of water into the intestine, and is approved as a prescription medicine to relieve non-infectious diarrhoea in certain patients. It is one of relatively few modern drugs derived directly from a traditional plant remedy.
Toxicity & Safety
Crofelemer is minimally absorbed from the gut, acting locally, and is generally well tolerated, with mild gastrointestinal effects being the most commonly reported. As a prescription medicine it should be used under medical direction.