Quassia Dosage: How Much to Use Safely

Quassia (Quassia amara) is a very bitter herb used for digestion, appetite support, and occasional parasite protocols. It’s potent, so many people ask: how much is safe? Below are the common traditional dose ranges for different forms, simple prep tips, and clear safety warnings to help you use quassia the smart way.

Common traditional doses

Dried wood or bark (infusion): Use about 0.5–2 g of dried quassia per cup of hot water. Steep 10–15 minutes, strain, and sip. Most people start with a single cup once daily and move to 1–3 cups per day only if tolerated. If you don’t have a scale, 1 level teaspoon of crushed wood is roughly 1–2 g, depending on grind.

Tincture or liquid extract: Typical herbalist guidance is 10–30 drops (around 0.5–1.5 mL) taken up to three times daily. Some products list 1–3 mL two to three times a day. Follow the product label and begin at the low end to check tolerance.

Bitters before meals: People often take 10–30 drops of a bitters mix containing quassia or 0.5–2 mL of a liquid extract immediately before meals to stimulate digestion. Keep doses small — quassia is intensely bitter and can cause nausea if too concentrated.

Safety, side effects, and practical tips

Start low and watch for stomach upset. Quassia can cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea if you take too much. If you notice persistent stomach pain or loss of appetite, stop using it and talk to a clinician.

Avoid quassia during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Traditional sources and case reports advise against use in pregnancy because bitter compounds can affect uterine activity. Don’t give it to small children unless a qualified provider recommends and supervises it.

Duration and interactions: Use quassia for short periods rather than long continuous courses. If you’re on prescription meds, especially those affected by liver enzymes or gut absorption, mention quassia to your clinician — it could alter how other drugs work.

Choosing a product: Pick a reputable brand, check the extract ratio on the label, and prefer standardized preparations when available. If using loose herb, measure by weight for consistent dosing. Keep a short diary of dose, timing, and effects so you can track benefits or side effects.

When to seek care: Stop immediately and see medical help for severe vomiting, uncontrolled diarrhea, yellowing skin or eyes, severe abdominal pain, or allergic reactions. If you’re unsure about dosing for a health condition, ask a qualified herbalist or your healthcare provider before you begin.

There’s no single official quassia dose backed by large clinical trials. The ranges above reflect traditional herbal use and common commercial labels. Use caution, start low, and check with a clinician if you plan to use quassia regularly or alongside other medications.