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Health For Mzansi

Healing herbs: Unveiling the power of umhlonyane and impepho

From umhlonyane's soothing properties to impepho's spiritual significance, Africa's medicinal plants offer unique wisdom. Explore their uses, learn sustainable practices, and ensure their legacy thrives!

by Vateka Halile
22nd February 2024
in Grow It, Trending
Reading Time: 5 mins read
A A
Impepho: A mighty plant with spiritual and healing benefits

Impepho is typically found in grassy areas, particularly in savanna grasslands that receive regular rainfall. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi

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.

1

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.

READ MORE HERE.

The fragrant effects of burning impepho helps in concentration and physical preparation. Photo: Archaela
2
Umhlonyane: The ancient herb many rely on

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.

READ MORE HERE.

Many people still believe in natural remedies that involve plants and herbs to cure flu and other diseases. Umhlonyane is one of the widespread plants that is still put to use. Photo: Kumbula indigenous nursery
3
Traditional trailblazer: Makhado uses herbs to heal the world

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.

READ MORE HERE.

Mpho Makhado is a traditional healer and herbalist who is well educated and recognised in the traditional African medicines and their uses to bring about greater healing. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi
4
Dr Caren Hauptfleisch, Chairperson of the SA Association of Registered Phytotherapists (SAARP) highlights some of the benefits of indigenous South African herbs and how they can be used to prevent and treat illness. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi

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.

READ MORE HERE.

Dr Caren Hauptfleisch, chairperson of the SA Association of Registered Phytotherapists (SAARP) highlights some of the benefits of indigenous South African herbs and how they can be used to prevent and treat illness. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi
5

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.

READ MORE HERE.

Medicinal plants are popular and used for several health benefits, from lowering blood pressure levels and prevention of cardiovascular diseases to reducing the risk of cancer. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi

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Tags: artemisia afraHerbsImpephoMedicinal plantsShow meTraditional medicine
Vateka Halile

Vateka Halile

Vateka Halile grew up in rural areas of Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape. She was raised in a traditional family setting and found writing to be a source of comfort and escape. Vateka participated in an online citizen journalism course through Food For Mzansi, and her passion for health and medicine-related stories was born. Her dedication to community work and love for social justice and solidarity spaces is evident in her quality time with the community when she isn't working.

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HIV and initiation: Supporting boys through cultural rites Security fails as gangs target Eastern Cape clinics Dr Makanya blends spiritual healing with art therapy Canola oil: A heart-healthy choice for your kitchen No more pain! Tackle the torment of toothaches How smoking causes harmful bacteria in your mouth Discover delicious, healthy dishes that will make your heart sing Rediscover the joy of creamy pap with chicken livers