Plants like umhlonyane and impepho have stood the test of time. They have amazing health benefits, and generations of people have used them to heal their bodies and minds. These plants have been passed down through the ages, and it’s crucial that we protect and preserve them for future generations.
These traditional plants of Africa hold a wealth of knowledge and wisdom, and we must do everything we can to protect them. We should strive to preserve the biodiversity of these plants, and encourage sustainable farming practices.
Not only will this ensure that future generations can benefit from their many uses, but it will also help us to better understand the complex ecosystems of our planet. Learn of the many medicinal benefits and how to safely use South Africa’s most popular herbs.

Impepho: A mighty plant with spiritual and healing benefits
Impepho is a plant native to Africa that, after being dried, is burned to for spiritual rituals. It’s not just a plant – it’s a key to unlocking the wisdom of the ancestors. Its aroma carries the whispers of wisdom from the past, and its smoke purifies the mind and soul. The plant also has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and redness in the skin; pain relief such as headaches; and to help hydrate and moisturise the skin.

Umhlonyane: The ancient herb many rely on
There’s a secret weapon that many South Africans have lurking in their medicine chests. Known to fight several ailments, especially those with respiratory or flu-like symptoms, umhlonyane, a traditional herb, is still going strong years and years later. Umhlonyane, also called African wormwood, artemisia afra, and wildeals, is a valuable herb that’s been used for generations to treat a variety of illnesses.

African medicine: Makhado uses herbs to heal the world
Herbalists are doing amazing work to help their communities. They use their knowledge of plants and herbs to create treatments that are safe, effective, and affordable. Many people in rural areas have limited access to modern medicine, so herbalists fill a vital role in providing healthcare. Mpho Makhado from Limpopo and other herbalists like him help ensure that people have access to safe and effective traditional medicine, which can help them heal from a variety of ailments.

Exploring the healing power of Mzansi’s herbs
Herbal medicines are often viewed as a balanced and moderate approach to healing. With the many side-effects of modern medicines and growing antibiotic resistance, people the world over see herbal medicine as a safe way to stay healthy and to treat and prevent illness, says Dr Caren Hauptfleisch, chairperson of the SA Association of Registered Phytotherapists (SAARP). Hauptfleisch, who has more than 30 years of herbal medicine experience, says the steady increase in the use of herbs can be seen throughout the world.

Mzansi’s medicinal plants you can grow
Before there were pills, medicine and injections, people relied on the age-old tradition of curing ailments with medicinal plants. And even though we have moved on and medical breakthroughs made life easier, people still rely on the tried and trusted plants our forefathers used. With the renewed interest in alternative natural health remedies, plants such as buchu, cancer bush and devil’s claw with medicinal properties are as popular as ever.
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