Amazonian Botanicals:
Tradition, Science & Research
Explore the traditional knowledge, modern research and responsible sourcing behind Dragon’s Blood, digestive wellness, botanical skincare and animal care.
The Hello Rainforest Research & Education Centre
Education
Bridging traditional Amazonian wisdom with modern scientific research to promote botanical wellness, skin barrier support, and animal care
Dragon’s Blood Science
Learn about the Amazonian resin used for skin protection and healing.
Articles:
Digestive Health
Understanding gut balance and digestive support.
Articles:
Botanical Skin Care
Learn how traditional botanical ingredients support healthy skin.
Rooted in Nature. Grounded by Science.
Croton lechleri, the Amazonian tree sap behind authentic Dragon’s Blood resin—has been investigated in laboratory, human, dermatological and veterinary research. Studies have examined its naturally occurring compounds, antioxidant activity, gastrointestinal applications and role in tissue-repair processes.
Research Highlights
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Equine tissue repair: A peer-reviewed 2026 study involving six mares found that topical Croton lechleri preparations appeared to aid tissue repair by influencing collagen deposition, angiogenesis and inflammation. The researchers did not establish that every Dragon’s Blood product will produce the same results, but this is exceptionally relevant direct equine research. Read the study
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Taspine and tissue-repair research: Laboratory research identified taspine as one constituent associated with fibroblast migration—an important biological process involved in tissue repair. Read the study
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Antioxidant activity: Laboratory research has demonstrated antioxidant activity in Croton lechleri sap under the conditions studied. Read the study
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Gastrointestinal research: Researchers have studied standardized proanthocyanidin extracts derived from Croton lechleri for their effects on intestinal chloride secretion and certain forms of diarrhea. These findings relate to standardized extracts and should not be presented as proof that crude resin or every finished product has identical effects. Read the mechanism study
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Broader scientific review: A 2025 review examined the phytochemistry and pharmacological research surrounding Croton lechleri, including wound-related, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and gastrointestinal areas of investigation. Read the review
Sustainable Sourcing & Reforestation
Every batch of Hello Rainforest Dragon’s Blood begins with intentional stewardship. By cultivating Croton lechleri seedlings and partnering with indigenous and local Amazonian communities, we preserve the rainforest and ensure product consistency from soil to bottle. We extend our deepest gratitude to the dedicated community partners whose daily care, hard work, and traditional knowledge make this sustainable reforestation possible
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Nurturing Croton lechleri seedlings for consistent batch quality.
By cultivating Croton lechleri seedlings and partnering with local workers for river transport and planting, we preserve the rainforest, support local communities, and ensure product consistency from soil to bottle.
Local transport along Amazonian waterways for active reforestation.
PUBLISHED SCIENCE
A Note About the Research
We Share
At Hello Rainforest, we believe in making scientific knowledge accessible and encouraging informed decisions.
The independent research and scientific publications featured on this page are provided strictly for educational and informational purposes. These studies may examine individual botanical compounds, specialized extracts, or experimental formulations and do not necessarily reflect research conducted on Hello Rainforest products.
Research findings should not be interpreted as claims that our products diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition.
Product uses and benefits are limited to those authorized or otherwise permitted under applicable regulations.
Our goal is to share the science, acknowledge its limitations, and encourage a deeper understanding of the remarkable botanicals found in nature.
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Study: Review of Sangre de Drago (Croton lechleri)—A South American Tree Sap in the Treatment of Diarrhea, Inflammation, Insect Bites, Viral Infections, and Wounds: Traditional Uses to Clinical Research
Author: Kenneth Jones
Published: December 2003
Journal: Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
Pages: 877–896
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Study: Exploring the Antimicrobial Potential of Dragon's Blood Recent laboratory research published in October 2026 investigated the effects of purified Croton lechleri latex on Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium associated with dental decay.
Research: Rondan Villagra et al. (2026). Concentration-dependent inhibition of Streptococcus mutans metabolic activity by purified Croton lechleri latex (sangre de grado) in vitro. bioRxiv.
Our Research Library Is Growing
Our Education & Testing page is a work in progress as we continue to expand our collection of scientific research.
While we may not be able to feature every published study, we are committed to sharing relevant research and adding new findings as they become available.
We invite you to check back regularly as we continue to explore and share the fascinating science behind nature's botanicals.
Understanding the Science Behind Dragon’s Blood and Digestive Health
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How Dragon’s Blood Compounds Influence Intestinal Water Secretion
Tradtrantip et al. (2010) · Molecular Pharmacology
Researchers found that crofelemer, a purified compound from Croton lechleri, inhibits two types of intestinal chloride channels involved in fluid secretion.
PubMed
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Reducing Excessive Fluid Accumulation in the Intestines
1999 · American Journal of Physiology
In animal research, the compound SP-303 significantly reduced intestinal fluid accumulation caused by cholera toxin. This demonstrated an antisecretory effect under experimental conditions.
PubMed
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Research Using Human Intestinal Cells
Fischer et al. (2004) · Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Researchers found that SB-300, an extract derived from Croton lechleri, reduced stimulated chloride secretion by approximately 92% in a human colon-derived cell model.
PubMed
Understanding the Science Behind Dragon’s Blood and Digestive Health
For generations, Dragon’s Blood (Croton lechleri) has been valued in traditional Amazonian medicine for digestive applications. Modern scientific research has begun to uncover some of the biological mechanisms behind this botanical's historical use.
One particularly interesting discovery involves intestinal fluid regulation.
During certain types of diarrhea, specialized channels in the intestinal lining allow excessive chloride ions to enter the intestines. Water follows these ions through osmosis, contributing to loose, watery stools.
Research into purified compounds derived from Croton lechleri has demonstrated their ability to inhibit specific chloride channels, helping researchers understand how excessive intestinal fluid secretion can be reduced.
These discoveries contributed to the development of crofelemer, a pharmaceutical ingredient derived from Croton lechleri.
Equine & Animal Care
Research and education on botanical care, tissue support, and natural wellness for animals.
Articles:
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Why Some Horse Wounds Develop Proud Flesh (And What Actually Helps Support the Healing Environment). Understanding Proud Flesh
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2026 Equine Tissue Repair Study: Research on Topical Croton lechleri
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Focus: Peer-reviewed veterinary research evaluating topical Croton lechleri on equine leg wounds to modulate collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and inflammation.
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The Role of Taspine & Alkaloids in Animal Tissue Repair
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Focus: How key botanical alkaloids stimulate fibroblast migration and growth factor signaling to support wound recovery.
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Natural Barrier Protection: Shielding Equine & Pet Skin from Environmental Irritants
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Focus: How applying natural resins forms a breathable, protective membrane over minor scrapes, cuts, and irritations for both horses and companion animals.
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Dragon's Blood: The Science of Sensory Nerves, Skin Comfort & Inflammation
Understanding the Connection Between Skin, Nerves and Discomfort
Our skin is more than a protective covering. In humans and animals alike, it contains a network of sensory nerves that help detect injury, irritation, heat and pain.
When skin becomes irritated or injured, these nerves can release chemical messengers, including a neuropeptide called Substance P.
Substance P contributes to pain signalling and neurogenic inflammation, a process in which sensory nerves participate in inflammatory responses.
What Does the Research Tell Us?
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Study 1 — Dragon's Blood and Sensory Nerve Signalling
A 2010 study published in Experimental Dermatology investigated the effects of Croton lechleri Dragon's Blood on sensory nerve activity.
Researchers discovered that Dragon's Blood reduced the release of Substance P in an experimental laboratory model involving sensory neurons and skin cells.
These findings suggest a potential mechanism through which Dragon's Blood influence nerve-associated inflammation and skin sensitivity.
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Study 2 — Investigating Pain-Modulating Properties
A 2007 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology investigated the pain-related effects of Dragon's Blood from Croton urucurana, a related species.
Researchers observed reduced pain-associated behaviours in experimental mouse models.
Although the study involved a different species and oral administration rather than topical use, it contributes to scientific interest in the biological properties of plants within the Croton genus.
Why This Research Matters for People and Animals?
At Hello Rainforest, we hear from customers who describe themselves or their animals appearing more comfortable following Dragon's Blood application.
Pet owners sometimes describe their animals settling after application, while horse owners report similar observations.
These experiences are interesting when considered alongside emerging research into Dragon's Blood and sensory nerve activity.
More Than What We Can See
Whether we're caring for our own skin, comforting a beloved pet, or tending to a horse, the goal extends beyond the visible surface.
We want to understand the biology of skin, the role of inflammation and the science that may help explain the experiences people report.
Because care isn't only about what we can see. It's also about comfort, compassion and well-being.
Rooted in Nature. Grounded by Science.
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