Introduction:

Artemisia is named after the Greek goddess Artemis. This soft aromatic shrub is a popular medicinal plant in South Africa. Another interesting link to the name is Artemisia, the wife of the Greek/Persian King Mausolus, who ruled after his death in 353 BC. In his honour she built a magnificent tomb called the Mausoleum, known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Artemisia afra is a common species in South Africa with a wide distribution from the Cederberg Mountains in the Cape, northwards to tropical East Africa and stretching as far north as Ethiopia. Artemisia afra is the only indigenous species in this genus. The species name afra means from Africa.

Artemisia vulgaris is naturalized in the Eastern Cape. It is indigenous to Europe, Iran, Siberia and North Africa and is described by Huxley et al. (1992) as a condiment with supposed magical properties'. World-wide there are about 400 species of Artemisia, mainly from the northern hemisphere. 

Recorded medicinal history:

Artemisia was used by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans both medicinally and in religious rites and was thought to be a love charm centuries ago. The Indian tribes of North America prepared parts of this plant to treat sore throats and bronchitis.

Artemisia afra is one of the oldest and best known medicinal plants, and is still widely used today in South Africa by people of all cultures. The list of uses covers a wide range of ailments from coughs, colds, fever, loss of appetite, colic, headache, earache, intestinal worms to malaria. Artemisia afra (roots, stems and leaves) is used in many different ways and taken as enemas, poultices, infusions, body washes, lotions, smoked, snuffed or drunk as a tea. A not so common use is to place leaves in socks for sweaty feet (Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962). Artemisia afra has a very bitter taste and is usually sweetened with sugar or honey when drunk.

 

Artemisia afra is known as Wilde-als by the Afrikaans community. Wilde-als brandy is a popular folk medicine still made and sold today. Margaret Roberts (1990) lists many other interesting uses in her book, Indigenous Healing Plants that includes the use of Artemisia afra in natural insecticide sprays and as a moth repellent. She also mentions the painkilling and relaxing properties ofArtemisia afra. 

Many of the Artemisia species are aromatic perennials and are used medicinally. Lesley Bremness (1988) in The complete book of herbs, mentions that wormwood is included for its internal worm-expelling properties in the ancient Greek text of Dioscorides. Indians from New Mexico use similar varieties to treat bronchitis and colds; and the Chinese use Artemisia for a number of ailments. 

The oil of Artemisia acts as a local anaesthetic for rheumatism, neuralgia and arthritis. Artemisia afra is the main active ingredient of the spirit liqueur Absinthe that attained notoriety from its excessive use and abuse. Absinthe was the drug of inspiration for painters like Vincent Van Gogh, Edouard Manet, Pablo Picasso, and Paul Gauguin, and the authors Ernest Hemingway, Jack London and Oscar Wilde amongst others. 

PubMed Literature:

Artemisia afra, indigenous to Zimbabwe, is used in folk medicine. Volatile oils from the plant resulted in significant activity against Aspergillus ochraceus, A. niger, A. parasiticus, Candida albicans, Alternaria alternata, Geotrichum candidum, and Penicillium citrium. Gundidza 1993

Three essential oils (including Artemisia afra, Artemisia abyssinica) showed positive results in the diphenylpicrylhydrazyl assay. The oils of Artemisia afra and J. procera were also effective hydroxyl radical scavenging agents when assessed in the deoxyribose degradation assay. Burits 2001 

The antimicrobial activities of the essential oils of Artemisia afra, Pteronia incana andRosmarinus officinalis were tested against 41 microbial strains. Artemisia afra and Rosmarinus officinalis showed similar and higher antimicrobial activity than P. incana. Mangena 1999

Extracts from traditional South African medicinal plants used for ailments of an infectious or septic nature, were screened for in vitro antibacterial activity. The highest activity was found in the methanol extracts from Bidens pilosa, Psidium guajava, Artemisia afra and Warburgia salutaris. Rabe 1997

A hybrid form of Artemisia annua was successfully cultivated in Central Africa. The plant aerial parts, which contained 0.63-0.70% artemisinin (dw), was extracted in a tea form. Five malaria patients who were treated with tea showed a rapid disappearance of parasitaemia within 2-4 days.Mueller 2000

The cytotoxic activity of nine terpenoids and flavonoids isolated from Artemisia annua was tested in vitro on several human tumor cell lines. Artemisinin and a quercetagetin-tetramethyl ether showed significant cytotoxicity against various tumor cells. Zheng 1994 

Sixteen essential oils were screened in vitro for their fungitoxicity against the two dermatophytes Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum gypseum. Five essential oils as ointments were able to cure ringworm in guinea pigs. Artemisia oil was found to be the most effective essential oil. Kishore 1993

Ultrasonic examination shows that Artemisia decoction (AD) intravenous infusion has remarkable effects on the contractility of gallbladder. The clinical use of AD is conducive to bile flow, stone expelling, inhibiting the deposition of bile solids and reducing the possibility of stone formation. Yu 1993

Chromatographic separation of Artemisia stolonifera isolated a triterpene, a sesquiterpene, two aromatic compounds and a benzoquinone (which showed in vitro cytotoxicity against non small cell lung adenocarcinoma, ovarian, skin melanoma, CNS and colon). Kwon 2001 

A flavonoid and four coumarins from the aerial part of Artemisia capillaris, together with 70 known compounds have been isolated showing antiplatelet aggregation activity and significant activity against HIV replication in H9 lymphocytic cells. Wu 2001 

Pharmaceutical Biology:

1999, Vol.37, No.5, pp. 351-356
Cardiovascular Effect of Artemisia Afra and its Constituents
A.N. Guantai and I. Addae-Mensah
University of Nairobi, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kenya
University of Ghana, Chemistry Department, Legon, Ghana

The cardiovascular effects of a mixture of long chain fatty esters (C44H88O2) and scopoletin isolated from Atemisia afra and an aqueous extract of the plant were investigated in rabbits. The long chain fatty esters induced hypotensive effects at doses of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 3 mg/kg. The diastolic pressure was affected more than the systolic.

Aqueous Atemisia afra extract (10-45 mg/kg) had a hypotensive effect in vivo and a dose-dependent biphasic effect on the heart in vitro. Lower doses induced an initial cardiostimulation followed by cardiodepression, whereas higher doses were mainly cardiodepressant. Scopoletin, a coumarin derivative, at a dose of 1.0-2.5 mg, induced a dose-dependent decrease in inotropic activity plus an appreciable decrease in chronotropic effects, especially at higher dose levels.

These results suggest that Atemisia afra and its constituents are potentially useful for the management of hypertensive conditions.

Introduction:

1. Cucurbitacins relieve liver damage 

2. Promote body immunity 

3. Cucurbitacins are anti-carcinogenic

The leaves, fruits and roots of the wild African Cucumis contain Cucurbitacins. Quin, in the first investigation of these plants, extracted an amorphous, bitter-tasting, crude toxin of C. myriocarpus subsp. myriocarpus and C. africanus fruit. Later, Rimington isolated a bitter substance cucumin(C27H40O9) from ripe fruits of these two species and a closely related compound, leptodermin(C27H38O8) from the ripe fruits of C. myriocarpus subsp. leptodermis. Cucumins and leptodermin consist mainly of cucurbitacin A together with some impurities and small quantities of cucurbitacin D. 

Several of these oxygenated, tetracyclic triterpenes and their glycosides, or Cucurbitacins as they are commonly known, have been isolated from the wild South African species. For example,cucurbitacin A (C28H40O8) from C. myrocarpus subsp. myrocarpus and subsp. leptodermis, and cucurbitacin B occurs most often of the bitter principles. The bitter principle content is usually highest in the fruit and roots. Cucurbitacins are amongst the bitterest substances known to man. The African Cucumis is rich in vitamin C.

Recorded Medicinal uses: 

The African Cucumis has similar properties to the Pedicellus Melo, (Chinese name: Tian Gua Di) which is used to remove lumps, eliminate fluid and relieve jaundice, acute and chronic viral hepatitis, hepatocirrhosis, liver cancer, persistent dyspepsia and epilepsy due to wind-phlegm. 

Cucumis anguira L. var. longipes A. Meeuse is used as food in Tanganyika. The Bemba of northern Zimbabwe eat the fruit, raw or cooked, as a vegetable. 

The Xhosa use the Cucumis africanus L. f. as a medicine. The Zulu administer a warm water infusion of the fruit pulp as an enema for the relief of lumbago. The Indian community in Natal, use the boiled leaf as a poultice. In Tropical Africa the seed is a roundworm remedy. The Pedi use the young leaf as a potherb. The early whites in the Cape used the fruit in making pickles. 

The Shangaan use the Cucumis africanus L. f. for ceremonial purposes. The root of Cucumis sp. is left to soak in cold water for the treatment of gonorrhoea. When heat is applied to this remedy, the properties change, and this remedy is used to induce diarrhea in patients suffering from constipation.

Cucumis dipsaceus Ehrenb. is used as food in Nyasaland and Tanganyika. The seed contains a saponin. The southern Sotho use a decoction of the fruit Cucunis dissectifolius Naud. as an enema for diarrhea. The Sotho also administer a preparation of the root for the treatment of tumors.

Cucumis melo L. is the ordinary melon or sweet melon in South Africa, often referred to as cantaloupe. The Pedi use the leaf as a potherb and relish and the fruit as a vegetable and relish. The cooked leaf is used by the Sukuma of Tanganyika. In Italy the seed is used as an emollient and refreshing medicine. The root has been used as an emetic and as a diuretic.

The southern Sotho use fruit pulp of Cucumis myriocarpus Naud. as a purgative. The Zulu use the raw fruit as a local application to boils. The fruit is generally used in South Africa as an emetic. The Kwena and the Tswana administer the plant with milk to the dog for the relief of vomiting. The plant is used medicinally in Tanganyika but no details are available. 

Cucumis sativus L. is used by the Europeans in South Africa as an anthelmintic (medicine acting against parasitic worms). The fruit is often eaten as a salad, as a cooked vegetable and as a pickle. This plant is also used medicinally in Angola but no details were found. 

The fruit and leaves of some wild Cucumis are said to be poisonous.

Introduction:

This rare southern African plant, is an ancient traditional herb regarded as Africa’s best natural anti-inflammatory remedy, and it has many other uses:

• Headaches
  
  
• Influenza
  
  
• Mild asthma
  
  
• Sinusitis and throat infections
  
  
• PMS, Menstrual cramps
  
  
• Candida albicans, trush
  
  
• Mild sedative
  
  
• Mood swings and hysteria
  
  
• Colds, flu & coughs

Other beneficial uses:

• Ginger is an excellent remedy for digestive complaints (indigestion, nausea, gas, colic and congestion)
  
  
• Ginger's antiseptic qualities make it highly beneficial for gastro-intestinal infections
  
  
• Circulatory stimulant - stimulates the circulation making it an important remedy for chilblains and poor circulation. By improving the circulation, ginger helps reducing high blood pressure
  
  
• Ginger also increases sweating and helps reduce body temperature in fevers
  
  
• Ginger helps to "thin" the blood as well as to lower cholesterol
  
  
• Ginger is useful as a supplement for heartburn & halitosis (bad breath)
  
  
• This herb is known to relieve vomiting and to sooth the stomach and spleen in the process
  
  
• Ginger is a warm vascular stimulant and body cleanser. It encourages the removal of toxins through the skin, and through increased kidney filtration
  
  
• Ginger relieves motion sickness and morning sickness

General Information:

This herb has a long history of use in African traditional medicine for a range of conditions including headaches, Influenza, mild asthma, sinusitis, throat infections, thrush, candida, premenstrual syndrome and menstrual cramps.

The root or rhizome is the part used, and comes to market in jointed branches called races or hands. The smell of ginger is aromatic and penetrating, the taste spicy, pungent, hot and biting.

African Ginger is a deciduous plant with large, hairless leaves, developing annually from a small, distinctive cone-shaped rhizome. The spectacular flowers appear at ground level in early summer. Because of its medicinal uses it has been over-harvested and has a restricted distribution in Mpumalanga and the Northern Province and has become extinct in Kwa Zulu Natal. 

Ginger has a stimulating effect on the heart and circulation, creating a feeling of warmth and well-being and restoring vitality, especially for those feeling the cold in winter. Hot ginger tea promotes perspiration, brings down a fever and helps to clear catarrh. Ginger has a stimulating and expectorant action in the lungs, expelling phlegm and relieving catarrhal coughs and chest infections. Ginger is a wonderful aid to digestion. It invigorates the stomach and intestines, stimulating the appetite and enhancing digestion by encouraging secretion of digestive enzymes. It moves stagnation of food and subsequent accumulation of toxins, which has a far-reaching effect throughout the body, increasing general health, vitality and enhancing immunity. 

Ginger is famous for relieving nausea and vomiting, from whatever cause. It settles the stomach, soothes indigestion and calms wind. Its pain-relieving and relaxing effects in the gut relieve colic and spasm, abdominal pain, distension and flatulent indigestion and help to relieve griping caused by diarrhoea. 

In the uterus it promotes menstruation, useful for delayed and scanty periods as well as clots. Ginger relaxes spasm and relieves painful ovulation and periods, and is recommended to invigorate the reproductive system. Ginger also inhibits clotting and thins the blood; it lowers blood pressure and cholesterol. Because of its heating properties ginger is not recommended for those who do not tolerate heat well or those with gastritis or peptic ulcers.

Research:

Therapeutic properties - Ginger is well researched, and its therapeutic benefits are largely due to its volatile oil and oleoresin content. Gingerol is an acrid constituent, responsible for much of the herb's hot taste and stimulating properties. The shogaols, formed as the plant dries, are more strongly irritant and acrid than the constituents present in the fresh rhizome.

Antiemetic - Ginger is highly effective for motion sickness. Trials at St. Bartholomew's Hospital in London in 1990 found the herb more effective than conventional medicines in relieving postoperative nausea.

Antiseptic - In a trial in China 70% of patients with bacillary dysentery who were given ginger made a full recovery.

Scientific literature:

Research done at Cornell University Medical College has found that Ginger may help prevent strokes and hardening of the arteries. The active ingredient in Ginger (Gingerol) is proven effective in preventing recurrences of so-called "little strokes". It is believed that this substance (Gingerol) inhibits an enzyme that causes cells to clot. 

It has been studied for its antibacterial, anti-fungal, pain-relieving, anti-ulcer, anti-tumour and other properties. 

Six clinical studies have looked at ginger's potential to reduce motion sickness. Four European studies reported positive results, while two American studies gave negative findings. 

Nutrient Content:

Ginger is rich in minerals and contains Vitamins B3 & B5. 

Constituants:

The peculiar flavour of the root appears to depend on the volatile oil; its pungency is due to a yellowish liquid called gingerol. This is a mixture of homologous phenols of the formula C16H26O3. (CH2O) no Zingerone, C11H14O3, is crystalline and has a sweet odour and an extremely pungent taste; it is chemically related to vanillin, and is formed when gingerol is treated with baryta water. The pungency of gingerol, in contrast to that of capsicum, is destroyed by heating with alkaline hydroxides.

The volatile oil is yellow and consists largely of a mixture of terpenes, camphone, phellandreneand a new sesquiterpene, which the discoverers, von Soden and Rojahn (Ph. Ztg., 1900, p. 414) call zingiberene. There is also some citral, cineol and borneol in the oil. 

How it works in the body: 

The phenolic compounds are the agents responsible for relaxing the muscles of the stomach, and this may also explain their effect in easing travel or motion sickness. Fresh or dried, the root has been shown to minimize vomiting. In addition, the phenolic ingredients act within the stomach as a sedative and painkiller, which helps to reduce over-activity of the gut. In stomach infections, the oil acts as an antiseptic and an anti-inflammatory. The gingerols alone are thought to be responsible for ginger's action as a liver protective. In the cardiovascular system, ginger is thought to also reduce cholesterol levels, while at the same time increasing a sluggish circulation.

Side effects:

Contraindicated in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Side effects of ginger are rare when used as recommended. However, some people may be sensitive to the taste or may experience heartburn. Persons with a history of gallstones should consult a nutritionally oriented doctor before using ginger. A doctor should be informed if ginger is used before surgery to counteract possible post anaesthesia nausea. The German therapeutic monograph on ginger warns patients with gall bladder disease to avoid it and also cautions against exceeding the recommended dosage.

Introduction:

Most Europeans are under the wrong impression on the origins of this wonderful plant. TheGladiolus was first discovered near the end of its range in KwaZulu Natal in the late 1820's. The name G. natalensis was then used for species farmed in Holland. Professor C.G.C. Reinwardt at Leyden distributed plants under this name to growers. No other species of the genus has caused so much taxonomic confusion and misunderstanding. It was given no fewer than 27 synonyms based on plants from tropical Africa and Madagascar, and 14 more based on southern Africa collections.

Gladiolus occurs virtually throughout the grasslands, savannas and woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa. It also occurs in Arabia and Madagascar. Across its range there are a number of variants, the most important of which are two exclusively tropical African subspecies. How much of theGladiolus remarkable wide distribution across Africa is due to deliberate human activity, we may never know.

A strikingly ornamental plant, Gladiolus is widely cultivated. A southern Africa form flowering in late summer is perhaps the best known in horticulture. The species was well established by 1866 in the gardens of Europe. More important, however, than its value as a wild species in gardens is the role of the Gladiolusfrom southern Africa in the breeding of the modern Gladiolus hybrids. It is one of the species that led to the development of the large-flowered Gladiolus cultivars, which are today among the world's most important cut-flower crops.

Recorded Medicinal uses:

Gladiolus is an African medicinal plant recorded in the human pharmacopoeia. Gladiolus is recorded (under several of its synonyms) as being used in southern Africa in treating a variety of ailments, including diarrhoea and colds. It is a common component of the African herbalist's medicine horn, the "lenaka". 

Many African herbalists consider the Gladiolus to be a magical medicinal plant as it is capable of treating dysentery, constipation and diarrhoea simultaneously. Ethno-botanical information has also noted that the gladiolus is widely used throughout sub-Saharan Africa and is one of the best natural human system regulators known to man. Patients feel well when taking Gladiolus, and it is often prescribed as a booster for patients with low energy levels and for hypochondriacs. An added benefit:- regular bowel movements.

In parts of West Africa, Gladiolus is used in preparations to cure both constipation and severe dysentery. At least in West Africa there are records that G. dalenii is cultivated on farms in the forest, where it was introduced from the savannah country to the north.

Corms (bulblike underground stem) of G. dalenii are also used as food in southern Congo (Zaire). The starchy corms are boiled and then leached in water before consumption.

The corm of Gladiolus edulis Burch. is edible. The Tswana eat the corm and small animals are recorded as eating it as well. The baboon being one of the animals that often dig the corm and eat it.

The southern Sotho use Gladiolus Dieterlenii Phillips with other plants as an enema as a remedy for lumbago and headaches. A decoction of the corn of Gladiolus ecklonii Lehm. is taken for the relief of rheumatic pains.

The Zulu make a medicine, to facilitate the birth of the placenta, from the corm of Gladiolus ludwigii Pappe and administer a decoction of the corm as an enema to relieve dysmenorrhoea (painful menstruation). The corm is used in southern Africa as a remedy for impotency.

The Swati use a decoction of the corm of Gladiolus multiflorus Bak. for dysentery.

The cooked corm of Gladiolus saundersii Hook. f. is eaten along with food by the southern Sotho for the relief of diarrhoea. A decoction of the corm of Gladiolus psittacinus Hook. is a remedy for colds and dysentery.

The Shangaan use Gladiolus in conjunction with other medicinal plants and ingredients for a variety of ailments including hemorrhoids.

Note: Gladiolus medicinal properties change according to the environment in which it is found. Climate and soil play an important role in the concentration of its active ingredients and medicinal properties.

Introduction:

Graviola, or Annona muricata, is a tropical fruit that has been found to have amazing healing properties. Also called soursop guanababa, or pawpaw, the Graviola fruit, leaves, bark and roots have been used as sedatives in folk medicine. Native South American healers used the tree to heal liver, asthma, heart problems as well as arthritis. Research on Graviola has shown good results in test tube studies, but there have been no clinical trials on animals or humans, even though the plant shows remarkable healing potential. The plant grows in South and Central America and has been cultivated for its healing properties for over three thousand years.

Recorded Medicinal uses:

* The first modern-day research on Graviola was conducted in 1976 by the National Cancer Institute, though the plant has been under investigation since the 1940s. Their findings reported that the leaves of the Graviola plant were effective in destroying malignant cancer cells.

* Tests at Perdue University on cancer cells of prostate, pancreas and lungs have all shown results.

* Twenty further studies investigated the chemical effects of the Graviola in laboratory tests, but tests on animals or humans are needed to confirm the results.

* A Korean study found that Graviola killed colon cancer cells better than a chemotherapy drug called Adriamycin. Graviola results were ten thousand times stronger than the chemotherapy. And, unlike chemotherapy drugs, Graviola did not damage any cells except the carcinogenic cells. This means that there would likely be no hair loss or nausea as side effects from using Graviola as a treatment for cancers.

* Folk Medicine - In the traditional folk medicine of Graviola seeds are used to help eliminate parasites.

* Guyana - In Guyana, the leaves are used as both a sedative and a heart tonic.

* Brazil - Brazilians drink Graviola tea for relief of liver problems, and apply the oil from the seeds to relieve arthritis and rheumatism.

* Jamaica - In Jamaica and the West Indies, the fruit is eaten to reduce fevers and to treat diarrhea.

The active ingredients in Graviola are called Annonaceous acetogenins. These substances have shown strong anti-tumor effects in test tubes, and what is more promising is that small doses seem to have great effect. Research using one part per million has shown results.

There are over two thousand varieties of plants in the Annonaceae species worldwide, many of which may provide additional sources of useful medicines for mankind. It is hoped that further research will enable this plant, used for millennium in folk medicine, to find its rightful place in modern science and global healing.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8760865
http://www.pawpawresearch.com/purdue-mdr-97.htm
http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA400299/graviola-a-worthwhile-botanical...
http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/1492/annonas.html
http://www.rain-tree.com/graviola.htm

Source: http://www.naturalnews.com/026945_graviola_cancer_cures.html

Introduction:

There are over 600 species of Helichrysum occurring worldwide, with 245 found in southern Africa. The word Helichrysumis derived from the Greek "helios" meaning sun and "chrysos" meaning gold, referring to the colour of many of the flowers of species in this genus.

Seldom is so much offered by such an easy-to-grow plant. African, European, Eastern and North American cultures use Helichrysums for their medicinal value. Its uses include food, medicinal, ornamental and spiritual. 

Recorded medicinal history:

For Europeans, the Helichrysum ranks as one of the most ancient and valuable healing substances. Helichrysum is said to be more anti-inflammatory than German Chamomile, have more tissue regenerating than Lavender and more cicatrisant (helping the formation of scar tissue) than Frankincense.

The oil of Helichrysum has been found by European researchers to generate tissue, reduce tissue pain, helps improve skin conditions, circulatory function, prevents phlebitis, helps regulate cholesterol, stimulates liver cell function, reduces scarring and discoloration. It is anticoagulant, anticatarrhal, mucolytic, expectorant, and antispasmodic. It has been known to help in improving certain types of hearing loss.

The Helichrysum plants are widely distributed and used medicinally in East and West Africa by indigenous cultures and Europeans alike. Helichrysums are well-known and very popular as traditional medicine in southern Africa and their use is often linked to their distribution.

Helichrysums are often used for food; the leaves are cooked and eaten. Medicinally the roots, leaves, stems and flowers are used as traditional medicine for chest complaints, colic in children, coughs, colds, internal sores, fever, headaches, and for dressing wounds amongst others.

Helichrysum pedunculatum is commonly used by the Xhosa to treat circumcision wounds and is known as isicwe. The Zulu and Xhosa burn the leaves of Helichrysum as incense in ritual ceremonial occasions.

Helichrysum splendidum has been used to treat rheumatism and is a good fuel plant in the mountains of Lesotho. It is also used in potpourri and lasts well in a vase as a cut flower.

The Afrikaans people name Helichrysum umbraculigerum as kerriekruie and use it for medicinal purposes. They also use other helichrysums such as helichrysums nudifolium for their wound-healing and antifungal properties.

The leaf of Helichrysum sp. is a Zulu love philter. As a result the desired lady finds the man irresistible. The dried leaf is used to make an ointment, which is applied to the body.

Although no information is available in literature, Shangaan traditional doctors, use the leaf of theHelichrysum sp. to boost woman's libido.

A decoction of the root of Helichrysum psilolepis Harv. is a Southern Sotho remedy for painful menstruation. A decoction of the root of Helichrysum platypterum DC. is drunk by the Southern Sotho to renew virility.

In Angola, the aromatic fruiting head of the Helichrysum benguellense Hiern is used for cosmetic purposes. Helichrysum crispum Less. is used in the Western Cape for heart trouble, for backache and kidney diseases. The Europeans also uses it as a remedy for "heart weakness" in both man and animal. An infusion has a reputation for the treatment of hyperpiesia, coronary thrombosis and of bladder conditions.

The root of Helichrysum gerberaefolium Sch. Bip. ex A. Rich. is used in East Africa for coughs and colds and the leaf as a wound dressing. Both root and leaf are said to contain helichrysin.

Helichrysum nudifolium Less. var. quinquenerve Moes. has been used as a tea, that has a "green" insipid flavour. Tests have shown that the plant is non-toxic, contains neither alkaloid nor glucoside, yields a trace of tannins and 0.036 per cent of a pungent volatile oil.

The Helichrysum orbiculare Druce is known as Hottentot tea and vaaltee. 

Pubmed Extracts: 

Helichrysum aureonitens, a southern African medicinal plant reported to have antibacterial properties, was evaluated for antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in vitro. The crude aqueous extract from shoots of Helichrysum aureonitens at a concentration of 1.35 mg/ml (w/v) showed significant antiviral activity on HSV-1 in human lung fibroblasts as demonstrated by the absence of a cytopathic effect. (Department of Botany, University of Pretoria, South Africa).

Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of 39 plants used in traditional Zulu medicine to treat headache or inflammatory diseases were screened for prostaglandin-synthesis inhibitors. Two-thirds of the plants screened had high inhibitory activity. The highest inhibition was obtained with ethanolic extracts of Bidens pilosa, Eucomis autumnalis, Harpephyllum caffrum, Helichrysum nudifolium, Leonotis intermedia, L. leonorus, Ocotea bullata, Rumex saggitatus, Solanum mauritianum, Synadenium cupulare and Trichilia dregeana. (Department of Botany, University of Natal Pietermaritzburg, Scottsville, South Africa).

Antibacterial assays of Helichrysum pedunculatum (a plant used during circumcision rites) showed that dichloromethane extracts are active against all the gram positive bacteria tested, as well as two gram negative bacteria, Enterobacter cloacae and Serratia marcescens. A water extract was effective against Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus kristinae. (Department of Botany, University of Pretoria, South Africa).

Twenty South African medicinal plants used to treat pulmonary diseases were screened for activity against drug-resistant and drug-sensitive strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. A preliminary screening of acetone and water plant extracts against a drug-sensitive strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, H37Rv, was done by the agar plate method. Acetone as well as water extracts of Cryptocarya latifolia, Euclea natalensis, Helichrysum melanacme, Nidorella anomala and Thymus vulgaris inhibited the growth of M. tuberculosis. Given the activity, a further study was done to confirm the inhibitory activity.

These active acetone extracts were screened against the H37Rv strain as well as a strain resistant to the drugs isoniazid and rifampin. Extracts of Chenopodium ambrosioides, Ekebergia capensis, Euclea natalensis, Helichrysum melanacme, Nidorella anomala and Polygala myrtifolia were active against the resistant strain at 0.1 mg/ml. (Department of Botany, University of Pretoria, South Africa).

Extracts from Helichrysum aureonitensare used topically by the indigenous people of South Africa against infections. The antimicrobial activity-guided fractionation by bioautography of the acetone extract from the aerial parts of Helichrysum aureonitens led to the isolation of 3,5,7-trihydroxyflavone (galangin). Evaluation of the antibacterial activity of the compound against ten randomly selected bacteria indicated significant activity against all the Gram-positive bacteria tested with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 mg/ml. 

Galangin indicated considerable activity against the fungi tested with the exception of Cladosporium herbarum. Penicillium digitatum and P. italicum appeared to be particularly susceptible at a concentration of 0.01 mg/ml. (Department of Botany, University of Pretoria, South Africa)

A new acylated form of a phloroglucinol with significant antimicrobial properties was isolated by bioactivity guided fractionation from Helichrysum caespititium(Asteraceae). The compound inhibited growth of Bacillus cereus, B. pumilus, B. subtilis and Micrococcus kristinae at the very low concentration of 0.5 microg/ml and Staphylococcus aureus at 5.0 microg/ml. 

Six fungi tested were similarly inhibited at low MICs, Aspergillus flavus and A. niger  (1.0 microg/ml), Cladosporium chladosporioides (5 microg/ml), C. cucumerinum and C. sphaerospermum (0.5 microg/ml) andPhylophthora capsici at 1.0 microg/ml. (Department of Botany, University of Pretoria, South Africa).

Introduction:

Momordica balsamina L. contains a bitter principle, momordocin. The young leaf contains 3,6 µgm./100 gm of vitamin C and yields two resin acids and momordocin.

An extract of the leaf has given positive antibiotic tests with three out of five pathogens with which it has been tested.

Although it is used as an anti-diabetic, careful tests do not support this use. It has somehypoglycaemic action when tested in rabbits. 

An infusion of the plant has shown mild, but not consistent, anti-malarial effects. Hence the use of the plant by the Portuguese for "paludismo" and sometimes referred to as "yellow fever tree sickness".

The plant contains a highly aromatic volatile oil, a fixed oil, carotene, a resin, two alkaloidsone of which is momordocin and a saponin. Momordocin is an amaroid and is obtained as a crystalline powder. It also contains 0,038 % of an unnamed alkaloid. 

The total carotenoid pigment is estimated at 8,53 µgm. and the vitamin A potency is 2,4 to 5,6 IU/gm.

A clear reddish-brown oil from the seed assays 46,7 % a-eleostearic acid, 7,7 % of linoleic acid, 15,8 % of oleic acid and 29,8 % of stearic acid. The dried root yields 12,84 % of ash and the dried fruit 11,7 % and both ashes contain iron, phosphorus and calcium. 

In Northern Zimbabwe the feeding of 1lb of the leaf and flower to a sheep over three weeks has produced no ill effects.

Momordica balsamina L. and osteoporosis:

Where Momordica Balsamina L. is consumed regularly, there are no occurrences of osteoporosis. It is the traditional and conventional consensus that this can be attributed to Momordica Balsamina L.. In defence of this analysis, African herbalist practitioners, point as evidence the fact that Momordica Balsamina L. consumers show an increased strength in their nails and hair. Generally the bone structure of these consumers is strong and healthy.

 

In particular, Portuguese conventional doctors used to comment on the bone strength of the locals. A famous episode with one such conventional doctor, occurred when the doctor broke a broom over the head of a local during an argument. The impact was so hard that the broken broom flew to the roof, hit the roof and come back hitting the doctor over his head and cracking it. The local sustained a bump while the doctor had to have stitches. 

Momordica Balsamina L. is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, Calcium and Iron and in their natural form, these vitamins and minerals are easily absorbed by the system, strengthening the bones thereby avoidingosteoporosis. Following a proper diet with the right amounts of minerals, vitamins and regular intake of Momordica balsamina L. will reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Momordica Balsamina L.'s high concentration of Calcium and other bone-friendly minerals and vitamins help the body increase bone density.

It is a wise decision to start taking Momordica Balsamina L. from as early as ten years old, during the fast growing period of a child. Later in life, regular exercise and regular intake of Momordica Balsamina L. will help build bone mass. Women are especially at risk of contacting osteoporosis, in particular after menopause, when estrogen levels drop and are therefore advised to take Momordica Balsamina L. regularly.

Recorded medicinal uses:

When bruised the plant emits a strongly unpleasant smell. The Zulu use it as a liniment, made by infusing the fruit (minus the seed) in olive or almond oil, as an application to chapped hands, burns and haemorrhoids. The mashed fruit is used as a poultice. Extracts have been administered for the relief of dropsy.

Outside South Africa, it as a liniment, made by infusing the fruit (minus the seed) in olive or almond oil, as an application to chapped hands, burns and haemorrhoids and the mashed fruit is used as a pultice. Extracts have been administered for the relief of dropsy.

The Shangaan use the leaves in tea form as a blood purifier and for liver deficiencies. In nutritional deprived areas and in winter (dry season), postnatal mothers eat the leaves to stimulate milk production. In the southern parts of Mozambique the leaves are taken as an anti-inflammatory remedy and particular sought for urinary tract inflammations. The fruit is especially appreciated for its bitter taste by the Shangaan and the Kanuri of North-East Nigeria.

The Portuguese are particularly fond of the leaves and use them as an herbal medicine and culinary herb. The leaves in tea form are used for diabetes, digestive disorders, fevers, ulcers and a mild form of malaria "paludismo". It is especially sought after as a detoxifier. A culinary specialty recommends the leaves, ground peanuts and honey be mixed together and used as a sauce in chicken and meat dishes. 

Momordica Balsamina L. is much used in West Africa as a medicine in both man and horse, particular as a bitter stomachic, as a wash for fever and yaws, and as a purgative. The fruit pulp, or the pounded fruit mixed with oil is used as an antiphlogistic dressing. The root is sometimes an ingredient in an aphrodisiac preparation and in the treatment of urethral discharges. The fruit is used for making a poultice and the plant a bitter tonic. The tender fruit and shoot are sometimes boiled with meat and both leaf and fruit are added to soup probably as a vehicle for medicinal uses.

Among the Ngizim of Bornu the leaf is placed in the water used for ceremonial purposes.

The young leaf and tendril are used by the Pedi as a potherb and as an anti-emetic.

Dragendorff says the ripe fruit is used for colic, as an emetic and drastic purgative. He also reports the use of the seed with oil in the treatment of haemorrhoids, frostbite and burns, and the root for jaundice and diseases of the liver.

Momordica Balsamina L. is used In the Congo for colic. 

In the Indian Peninsula, the whole plant mixed with other herbs is used for psoriasis, scabies and other cutaneous diseases. 

In Japan, the Momordica sp. enters in the composition of a remedy for skin ailments. In China theMomordica Balsamina L. is considered a traditional medicine and is widely used by Chinese traditional doctors worldwide.

Momordica Balsamina L. medicinal properties change according to the environment in which it is found. Climate and soil play an important role in the concentration of its active ingredients and medicinal properties. It is believed that Southern Africa has three different subspecies of Momordica, each exhibiting particular properties.

Recorded Medicinal uses:

The Shangaan use the Hibiscus sp. leaves in the form of tea for the treatment of hypertension, profuse menstruation and PMS. 

In Guinea the plant is regarded as mucilaginous and tonic to heart and stomach. The seed is aromatic and has a musk-like odour used in perfumery under the name "Ambretta".

In South America and West Indies, the seed is a snakebite remedy. The leaf gives a very fair zone of inhibition, when tested for its antibacterial effect.

The leaf of Hibiscus sp. is used by the Xhosa as a dressing for septic wounds and is said to contain Mucilagae.

In the East Indies and Senegal the seed has been used as a remedy for eye diseases and dysentery. The seed oil contains 55.9% of stearic acid, 9.1% of palmitic, 32.6% of oleic and 2.4% of linoleic. The flower yields a pigment canna hibiscetin.

The Swati use a decoction of the root and flower in pneumonia. A hydrochloric acid extract of the leaf and stem has given positive alkaloid tests.

A small piece of the root of Hibiscus malacospermus Harv. is chewed by the Europeans in Lydenburg (South Africa) to relieve heartburn. The Southern Sotho use the plant as a colic remedy. The Southern Sotho, also use the Hibiscus malacospermus E. Mey ex Harv. as a remedy for headaches and other ailments.

The root of Hibiscus pusillus Thumb. is used by the Zulu as an emetic in the treatment of "bad dreams" and by men as part of the preparation for courting.

The Zulu use a lotion of the leaf and stem of Hibiscus surattensis L. for the treatment of penile irritation of any sort, including venereal sores and urethritis. It is sometimes applied as an ointment for the same purposes. An infusion is also used as an injection into the urethra and vagina for gonorrhoea and other inflammations.

Study - extracts from: 

Hibiscus 6-06-2000.txt
Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
Volume 65, Issue 3 Abstract
June 1999 Article
Pages 231-236
PII: S0378-8741(98)00157-3
Copyright (c) 1999 Elsevier Science Ireland LTD. All rights reserved.

The effects of sour tea (hibiscus sabdariffa) on essential hypertension. M. Haji Farajia,* and A.H.Haji Tarkhanib
a, Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Eveen - Tehran19395-4139, Iran.
b, Iran University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Faculty of Medicine, Eveen - Tehran19395-4139, Iran.

Considering the high prevalence of hypertension, its debilitating end organ damage, and the side effects of drugs used for its treatment, we conducted this experimental study to evaluate the effect of sour tea (Hibiscus sabdariffa) on essential hypertension. For this purpose, 31 and 23 patients with moderate essential hypertension were randomly to an experimental and control group, respectively. Patients with secondary hypertension or those consuming more than two drugs were excluded from the study. 

Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured before and 15 days after the intervention. In the experimental group, 45% of the patients were male and 55% were female, and the mean age of the patients was 51.5±10.1 years. Statistical findings showed an 11.2% lowering of the systolic blood pressure and a 10.7% decrease of diastolic pressure in the experimental group 12 days after beginning the treatment, as compared with the first day. 

The difference between the systolic blood pressures of the two groups was significant, as was the difference of the diastolic pressures of the two groups. Three days after stopping the treatment, the systolic blood pressure was elevated by 7.9%, and the diastolic pressure was elevated by 5.5% in the experimental and control groups. This difference between the two groups was also significant. This study proves the public belief and the results of in vitro studies concerning the effects of sour tea on lowering high blood pressure. More extensive tests on this subject are needed.

Introduction:

For hundreds of years the Zulu, Basuto, Xhosa and Mfengi cultures have used Pelargonium sidoides as a curative for coughs, upper respiratory tract irritations and gastrointestinal concerns. Today, with the advantages of modern science and clinical research, we are able to better understand what makes this traditional remedy work so effectively.

Pelargonium sidoides has been successfully used for the treatment of:

• Respiratory infections like bronchitis, sinusitis, and pneumonia, tonsillitis and rhinopharyngitis
• It is often used as an alternative to antibiotics
• Acute and chronic ear, nose and throat infections
• Rapid improvement in the symptoms associated with colds and flu
• Analgesic (absence of pain) effects

General:

Pelargonium sidoides occurs throughout the eastern Cape, Lesotho, Free State and southern and south-western Gauteng in the Republic of South Africa. 

Pelargonium sidoides is called by Kalwerbossie or Rabassamin South Africa. However, the name Umckaloabo is most commonly known and originates from the Zulu language "heavy cough". 

The Englishman Charles Stevens already acknowledged the successful treatment of tuberculosis with umckaloabo in the early 1920’s. Extracts of the root have been available in German pharmacies since 1983 without prescription and have found widespread usage against infections of the sinus, throat and respiratory tract.

The traditional use of Pelargonium sidoides for coughs and chest troubles may be explained by the presence of essential oils. It has not yet been established which ingredients contribute to itsantibacterial properties. 

Extracts of Pelargonium sidoides have clear antibacterial characteristics against Streptococci, Staphylococci and Bacillus cereus.

Pelargonium sidoides is also rich in phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals and amino acids that enhance the body’s functioning and protects it against diseases. Treatment with Pelargonium sidoides rapidly improves the typical symptoms associated with infections such as cough, fever, sore throat, fatigue and weakness.

How a Zulu remedy became a best-selling new medicine:

With phenomenal growth, it's gone from being an obscure herbal remedy to become one of Germany's top new medicines. In the past two years sales have jumped over 700%--growing faster than any other brand. It's success is attributed to impressive clinical results, high consumer satisfaction and a fascinating history. 

A Fascinating Story:

In 1897, an Englishman named Charles Stevens went to South Africa hoping to cure himself of tuberculosis. He consulted with a Basuto tribal healer who gave him a decoction of a local medicinal plant. Fully recovered, Charles Stevens returned to England with his mysterious remedy--which became popular throughout Europe as "Steven's Consumption Cure". In 1920, a former missionary doctor, Adrien Sechehaye, learned of Steven's cure. During the next nine years he treated over 800 patients in Switzerland with a homeopathic preparation of the medicine. In 1929 he published the medical case studies. 

But with the introduction of synthetic tuberculosis drugs, Steven’s remedy became largely forgotten in Western medicine--until its recent "rediscovery" by European researchers. 

What the Basuto healer gave Charles Stevens was a traditional remedy made from the roots ofPelargonium sidoides - a species of geranium unique to South Africa. Among the Zulu, the medicine was described as "umKhulkane' (denoting respiratory infection) + 'uHlabo' (roughly meaning chest pain). 

Works Differently:

While most other cough, cold and sinus medications simply mask outward symptoms, the mechanisms and actions of Pelargonium sidoides actually support faster recovery.

Shortens Duration and Reduces Severity:

Clinical trials show that Pelargonium sidoides shortens the duration and reduces the severity of upper respiratory irritations.

High Satisfaction:

In a physician assessment of adults and children suffering from common cold, chest and throat irritations, was rated effective in nearly 90% of cases!

Its success is attributed to impressive clinical results, high consumer satisfaction and a fascinating history that has its roots in South African heritage and culture.

Chemistry & Pharmacology:

The bioactive ingredients in P.sidoides are the tri- and tetra-oxygenated coumarins, gallic acid and gallic acid methyl ester (polyphenols), various flavonoids, as well as significant levels ofcalcium and silica. P.sidoides contains two distinct coumarins: umckalin and its 7-O-methyl ester, together with four other methoxycoumarins and three unique coumarin sulphates.Scopoletin and 6,7,8-trihydroxycoumarin are also found. Most of the coumarins contain amethoxy function at the C7 position and an OH group at either the C6 or C8 positions; functionality that is responsible for their antibacterial activity.

Gallic acid and its methyl ester are present in large amounts. These were identified as the prominent immunomodulatory principle for this herbal medicine. Macrophage activation was confirmed by an in vitro study based on Leishmania parasites (Phytother Res 2001 Mar; 15(2): 122-6). The same authors, Kayser, O. and Kolodziej, H. (Planta Medica 63, 508-510) also studied the antibacterial performance of the various coumarins and gallic acid compounds found inPelargonium sidoides and found that with the exception of the ineffective (+)-catechin, all the potentially active compounds exhibited antibacterial activities with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 200-1000 micrograms/ml. These results provide for a rational basis of the traditional use of umckaloabo. 

Studies:

Double-blind, placebo-controlled studies on patients with acute bronchitis confirmed that extracts of p.sidoides were effective in treating this ailment. Similar studies have also shown the effectiveness of p.sidoides extracts for treating tonsillopharyngitis in children in the age group 6-10 years (Phytopharmaka VII, October 2001). Encouraging results have also been achieved with children, especially those who have not responded well to repeated treatment with antibiotics.

The alcoholic extract of the root has been shown to have a three-way effect:

1.) Anti-bacterial: The p.sidoides extract prevents bacteria from attaching to cells in the mucous membranes. 

2.) Antiviral effect: Similarly, p.sidoides prevents viruses from attaching to the mucous membrane cells and stimulates the body’s immune system in such a way that both bacteria and viruses are prevented from multiplying. 

3.) Expectorant: the extract acts as an expectorant, allowing the body to expel contaminated mucous making conditions less suitable for the multiplication of the bacteria and viruses. 

The three-way effect attacks the acute infection at its root, the stabilization of the immune system prevents a re-infection and the vicious circle of infection, short recovery phase and new infection is broken. Due to its bacteriostatic and immune-modulating characteristics p.sidoidesappears to be a good alternative to the conventional therapy of treating respiratory illnesses with antibiotics.

Efficacy of extract of Pelargonium sidoides in children with acute non-group A beta-haemolytic streptococcus tonsillopharyngitis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

Bereznoy VV, Riley DS, Wassmer G, Heger M.
Paediatric Department II, Academy for Continuing Medical Education, Kiev, Ukraine.

Background: Clinical trial data suggest that antibiotics are not indicated for the treatment of acute non-group A beta haemolytic strep (non-GABHS) tonsillopharyngitis. Nevertheless patients are symptomatic and effective alternatives for its treatment are needed that have been evaluated in clinical trials. 

Objective: To confirm that treatment with an extract of Pelargonium sidoides (EPs 7630) is superior to placebo for the treatment of non-GABHS tonsillopharyngitis in children. 

Design: Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. 

Setting: Six study sites in 4 paediatric and ENT primary care outpatient clinics. 

Patients: One hundred forty-three children aged 6-10 years with non-GABHS tonsillopharyngitis present < or = 48 h, a negative rapid strep screen, a Tonsillopharyngitis Severity Score (TSS) > or = 8 points, and informed consent. 

Intervention: EPs 7630 or placebo (20 drops tid) for 6 days. 

Measurement: The primary outcome criterion was the decrease of the TSS from baseline (day 0) to day 4. RESULTS: The decrease of the TSS from baseline (day 0) to day 4 was 7.1 +/- 2.1 points under EPs 7630 (n = 73), and 2.5 +/- 3.6 points under placebo (n = 70). The covariate adjusted decrease was 7.0 +/- 2.4 points under EPs 7630, and 2.9 +/- 2.4 points under placebo. The 95% RCI for the difference between the groups was [2.7; 4.9] demonstrating a significant difference in efficacy of EPs 7630 compared to placebo (P < 0.0001). Adverse events (AEs) occurred in 15/143 patients (EPs 7630: 4/73 patient, placebo: 44/70) and were not related to the investigational medication. 

Conclusions: EPs 7630 was superior compared to placebo for the treatment of acute non-GABHS tonsillopharyngitis in children. Treatment with EPs 7630 reduced the severity of symptoms and shortened the duration of illness by at least 2 days.

Immunomodulatory principles of Pelargonium sidoides.

Kayser O, Kolodziej H, Kiderlen AF.

Institut fur Pharmazie,Pharmazeutische Biologie, Freie Universität Berlin, Germany. Extracts and isolated constituents (coumarins and phenols) of Pelargonium sidoides DC, a plant species used in folk medicine by the Southern African native population, were evaluated for their effects on nonspecific immune functions. 

Although this herbal medicine is also successfully employed in modern phytotherapy in Europe to cure infectious diseases of the respiratory tract, the scientific basis of its remedial effects is still unclear. Thus, functional bioassays including an in vitro model for intracellular infection with Leishmania parasites, an extracellular Leishmania growth assay, a fibroblast-virus protection assay (IFN activity), a fibroblast-lysis assay (TNF activity) and a biochemical assay for inorganic nitric oxides (iNO) were employed. 
None of the test samples revealed significant activity against extracellular, promastigote Leishmania donovani, the causative agent of human visceral leishmaniasis.

In contrast, apart from the coumarin samples, all the Pelargonium extracts (EC(50) <0.1-3.3 microg/mL), gallic acid (EC(50) 4.4 microg/mL) and its methyl ester (EC(50) 12.5 microg/mL) significantly reduced the intracellular survival of L. donovani amastigotes within murine macrophages. 

These data indicate that the samples acted indirectly on Leishmania parasites, possibly by activating leishmanicidal macrophage functions. Macrophage activation was confirmed by detection of tumour necrosis factor (TNF-alpha) and inorganic nitric oxides (iNO) in supernatants of sample-treated macrophage cultures. Synthesis of iNO is a well-known effector mechanism of macrophages against microorganisms such as Leishmania. Interestingly, blocking iNO-synthase with L-NMMA had no substantial effect on sample-induced intracellular Leishmania kill.

From bioassay-guided fractionation, gallic acid and its methyl ester present in large amounts in P. sidoides and in its active extracts, were identified as the prominent immunomodulatory principle for this herbal medicine.

The results, when taken together with recent reported antibacterial activity, provide a rational basis for both the traditional and the present utilization of P. sidoides in the claimed conditions.

Introduction:

The earliest written records of the use of Sceletium tortuosum date back to 1662 and 1685. The Dutch, upon their arrival in South Africa, called it ‘Kougoed’ which literally means, ‘chew(able) things/goodies ‘ or ‘something to chew’.

For hundreds of years the Hottentots used Sceletium expansum and tortuosum as a sacramental sedative and mood enhancer.

This mood-enhancing plant is known in it's homeland as "canna”, “channa” or “kanna” (not Cannabis). It was so esteemed among native pastoralists and hunter-gatherers that they'd travel hundreds of miles to collect plants in the wild. 

The family Mesembryanthemaceae contains many pharmacologically active species. The genusMesembryanthemum is a popular groundcover. One of the most utilized by native peoples in South Africa was the genus Sceletium, for which whole tribes would travel hundreds of miles to pick a years supply. 

Recorded Medicinal history:

Kanna has been used by the Hottentots and Bushmen tribes of South Africa as a mood-altering substance since prehistoric times. Although primarily chewed, there are reports of it being taken as a tea (Jacobsen 1960). Traditionally, the dried plant material is also smoked, or powdered and inhaled as a snuff on its own or with the addition of other herbs.

Sceletium elevates mood and decreases anxiety, stress and tension, and shepherds walking long distances in arid areas have also used it as an appetite suppressant. Higher doses can cause euphoria, initially with stimulation and later with sedation. It has been suggested by some thatKanna can potentate the effects of alcohol and cannabis. No addiction or severe adverse side effects have been associated or documented with Kanna. 

Sceletium is used as a mood-enhancing substance and is far more effective and rapidly acting than the well-known European plant Hypericum (St John's Wort). 

Rural folk and farmers also use Sceletium as a sedative in the form of teas, decoctions or tinctures. In intoxicating doses it can cause euphoria, initially with stimulation and later with sedation. The plant is not hallucinogenic.

Pharmacology:

The mood-elevating action of Sceletium is due to a number of alkaloids including mesembrine,mesembrenol and tortuosamine. The alkaloid concentration in the dry material ranges from 0.05 to 2.3%. Preliminary research suggests these alkaloids may interact with the brain’s dopamineand serotonin receptors.

Mesembrine is usually the major alkaloid present, and has been demonstrated in laboratory studies (sponsored by the National Institute of Mental Health in the United States, and conducted by the company NovaScreen) to be a very potent serotonin-uptake inhibitor. This receptor-specific activity, and some receptor activities found on nicotinic, dopamine and nor-adrenaline sitescertainly validate the traditional uses, and suggest additional therapeutic potential. 

In clinical practices, tablets and capsules of Sceletium are being used successfully by a number of psychiatrists, psychologists and doctors with excellent results for anxiety and depression; and they can also be used by the lay public to elevate mood and for stress and tension. 

Carefully selected plant material has been successfully cultivated on a limited commercial scale as an essential prerequisite to ongoing research and development.

Sceletium has significant mood-elevating and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties. In doses as low as 50 mg users report improvements in mood, decreased anxiety, relaxation and a sense of well-being. At higher dosages near 100 mg, Sceletium acts as a calming euphoriant and empathogen. Users report increased personal insight, interpersonal ease and a meditative, grounded feeling without any perceptual dulling. In fact some note enhanced tactile and sexual response. Some reports also note significant potentiation of alcohol and cannabis. High doses produce distinct inebriation and stimulation often followed by sedation.

The National Institute of Mental Health in the United States have found Memembrine the principle alkaloid responsible for psychoactivity in Sceletium Tortuosum to be a serotonin-uptake inhibitor, keeping more serotonin in circulation, like Prozac. Since Prozac/SSRI's are contraindicated with MAOI, this would also go for Mesembrine. Also the results of taking it on top of other SSRI's are unpredictable, and it is known that alcohol can also cause side effects combined with many SSRI's. Headaches in conjunction with alcohol have been noted with Sceletium use.

Do not combine with SSRI’s, MAO inhibitors or any other psychiatric medications or cardiac medications. 

Indications:

• Low mood
• Anxiety
• Hot flushes and irritability in menopause
• Smoking cessation support
• Alcohol rehabilitation support as part of a formal program
• Post-traumatic stress disorder support
• Attention deficit
• Study aid

Contra indications: 

Patients with a hypersensitivity to any of the plant species or ingredients. Not to be taken during pregnancy or anyone under the age of 18. The active constituents of Sceletium tortuosum are mesembrine, mesembrenone, mesembrenol and tortuosamine. Mesembrine, the major alkaloid present, is a serotonin-uptake inhibitor (SSRI), like the anti-depressant Prozac. Sceletiummust never be combined with an SSRI, MAOI, or other psychiatric medications, cardiac medications or any other medications.