Medicinal Plants

Most of the fynbos in the Western Cape is used medicinally. Up to 80% of black South Africans visit Sangomas (traditional doctors) regularly. Sangomas make use of the available plants and treat people with them.

As it is much cheaper and easier to obtain, many people go to the sangomas.

Girls in Grades 6 and 7 have researched the information on this page.

Carpobrotus

The fruit of Carpobrotus acinaciformis is called "sour fig". This plant can be found from the area around Bredasdorp and Swellendam to East London. They can also be found all the way round the east and west coastal land.
The berry on the plant has a brown and leathery appearance. These berries are used to make jam, as a medicine to calm sore throats, for burns, stings and rashes. It is also used as a laxative and purgative. The plants leaves can also relieve painful sores.

Aloes

The scientific name for the Aloe family is Asphodelaceae. These succulents are found mainly in Africa. They are characteristic of the South African veld. Most are found in the dry savanna, a type of vegetation that covers most of South Africa. The plant has long fleshy leaves and red flowers. Aloes are used in creams, shampoos and cosmetics. (Sarah, Aimee, Caroline and Monique)

Lamiaceae

The leaves of the Wild Dagga plant (Leonotis leonurus - Lamiaceae) are used for stomach ailments and bronchial problems. (Tori)

Pelargoniums

The tubers of Pelargonium triste (Geraniaceae) are used to stop bleeding ulcers and bleeding piles. It is also used for gynaecological problems. (Farah)

Amaryllidaceae

The bulbs of the sore eye lily (Haemanthus coccineus - Amaryllidaceae) are used for sprains, bruises, dropsy and bladder ailments.

Araceae

The Arum Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) belongs to the Araceae family. This usually grows in thick clumps in swamps and streams and in the forest. Pigs eat the roots and the leaves are used to heal infected wounds. It flowers from July to September. (Alice)

Alliacea

Tulbughia violacea is commonly kown as Wild garlic. These plants are used for curing fevers, asthma, colds and tuberculosis. (Rebecca)

Liliaceae

Agapanthus praecox. Known as the Christmas flower the roots of this plant is used by the indigenous people during childbirth.

Rutaceae

Agathosma ovata also known as false buchu. Khoikhoi women anointed their bodies with a mixture of fat and buchu. Buchu belongs to this well known citrus family. (Angela, Sarah and Kate J)

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