The gajo tree, otherwise known as the sandbox tree, the dynamite tree, or as Hura crepitans, is an evergreen tree native to tropical regions of the world. The colloquial name dynamite tree comes from the explosive seed-launching the tree demonstrates when its fruit is ripe (Vogel, 2008). Various studies on this plant have reported the presence of secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, phenolic acid, carotenoids, and terpenes in root, stem bark, and leaf extracts (Vassallo et al., 2020).

A study based on these ethnobotanical findings looked at the impact of  H. crepitans on rats with carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage (Owojuyigbe et al., 2022). The extract demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects in hepatically injured rats, as well as mitigated liver injury, as evidenced in the significantly reduced levels of AST, ALT, and ALP (biochemicals used in liver tests). The H. crepitans seed is a nutritionally promising seed, with seed oil rich in β-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol, and vitamin A. The first three components mentioned previously are called phytosterols, which possess anti-inflammatory qualities. Stigmasterol in particular has been researched due to its anti-inflammatory properties, alongside anticancer, anti-osteoarthritis, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory, antiparasitic, antifungal, antibacterial, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties (Bakrim et al., 2022). Stigmasterol exerts anti-diabetic effects by reducing fasting glucose, serum insulin levels, and oral glucose tolerance.

Despite the nutritional and medicinal benefits, the gajo tree can be toxic to animals and humans. Even the seed, upon which much research has been conducted, is said to cause burning sensations to the throat and induce vomiting (Owojuyigbe et al., 2020). The sap (latex) from the tree is also toxic, serving to protect the fruit and seeds. The latex contains the lectins hexahydrohuratoxin and huratoxin, which are said to be sometimes used to catch fish by means of poison (Vassallo et al., 2020).