Umhlonyane (or lengana in Sotho language) Plant Health Benefits: Umhlonyane (Artemisia afra in English Meaning) is one of the oldest and best known medicinal plants, and is still used effectively today in South Africa by people of all cultures.
Table of Contents
What Umhlonyane is mainly used for
The list of health benefits for Umhlonyane (Lengana) plant covers a wide range of ailments from
- coughs,
- colds,
- fever,
- loss of appetite,
- colic,
- headache,
- earache,
- intestinal worms
- malaria.
Also Read: Did Madagascar find the cure for coronavirus through Umhlonyane plant?
Umhlonyane is used in many different ways and one of the most common practices is to insert fresh leaves into the nostrils to clear blocked nasal passages (Van Wyk et al. 1997). Another maybe not so common use is to place leaves in socks for sweaty feet (Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962). The roots, stems and leaves are used in many different ways and taken as enemas, poultices, infusions, body washes, lotions, smoked, snuffed or drunk as a tea. A. afra has a very bitter taste and is usually sweetened with sugar or honey when drunk. Wilde-als brandy is a very popular medicine still made and sold today.
Umhlonyane Oil health benefit
Artemisia oil is used in a steamer to ease nasal congestion or can be added to a bath for menstrual pains and after childbirth. The oil has a high level of thujone should be used with caution during pregnancy and by epileptics.
Dosage Guide
This is a herb that should not be taken longer than a 7 to 10 day period as it can cause headaches and shaking. (Thujone is present in most species of Artemisia and A. absinthium contributes most of the thujone in the strong liquor Absinthe, reputed to have mind-altering effects).
Medical Disclaimer
Information is for educational and informational purposes only and may not be construed as medical advice. The information is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment offered by healthcare professionals.
How to make Mhlonyane mixture for cough. Plz help.