Scientific name: Eriocephalus africanus
Wild Rosemary is well known for its medicinal properties in South Africa. Eriocephalus Africanus also goes by the name Cape Snow Bush and Kapokbossie because of their white, woolly, hairy seeds.
It is important to note that the common names “African rosemary” and “wild rosemary” are due to the superficial resemblance in foliage and general habit to the common rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus), even though the two species are not related.
Wild Rosemary’s medicinal uses for numerous bodily systems including the digestive, respiratory and reproductive system is trusted and has been traditionally proven by generations of usage in folk medicine. Research and studies on Wild Rosemary are starting to gain traction and agree with the acclaimed benefits.
I’ve done some research on this remarkable plant, looking at the ethnobotany uses as well as scientific studies on it. I find it incredible that the scientific findings on the plant support the old traditional and historical uses. I would love to share my findings with you.
Here is what Wild Rosemary can help you with:
A Respiratory Supporter
Wild Rosemary is used in the treatment of respiratory problems and for chest complaints including coughs and colds, influenza, asthma, and TB
A Digestive Reliever
Wild Rosemary was traditionally used and is still used today to relieve digestive complaints such as flatulence, pain, bloatedness, stomach or gastric disorders, peptic ulcers and colic.
A Woman Supporter
Wild rosemary is used as a remedy for gynaecological complaints including menstrual-related problems such as menstrual cramps, PMS and delayed menstruation as well as venereal diseases.
Also, just so that you know, I make and sell a Wild Rosemary Tincture. If you would like to try it?
A Heart Supporter
Wild Rosemary has been shown to be cardiotonic and is used to relieve problems related to the heart. Traditional practice was to use it as a diuretic and circulatory for the treatment of oedema and haemostatic.
A Pain Reliever:
Wild Rosemary has been shown to reduce pain responses due to its analgesic, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory actions. It can be used to relieve backache, gout, headaches and other inflammatory and painful conditions.
A Microbial Defender
Studies have shown that Wild Rosemary possesses antibacterial effects against harmful bacteria including those that cause staph infections, pneumonia, TB and leprosy. It has also exhibited antifungal activities against harmful fungal including candida.
An All-Rounder
Wild Rosemary is used topically for dermal problems, as a foot bath, and as a wash for dandruff. It’s also used for oedema, high blood pressure, kidney and urinary problems, and to modulate or relieve a fever.
A study revealed that Wild Rosemary is a rich source of flavonoids and natural anticancer agents, which could potentially be used in the development of new therapeutics for cancer treatment.
Properties and actions
Anodyne / Analgesics, Antibacterial, Antidepressant, Anti-fungal, Antihistamine, Anti-inflammatory, Antimycobacterial, Antioxidant, Antipyretic (reduce fever), Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Cardiotonic (heart health), Circulatory Stimulant, Cytotoxic (anti-cancerous), Diaphoretic (sweat), Digestant, Diuretic (urination), Emmenagogue (promotes menstruation), Emollient (soften/smooth skin), Hypotensive (lower blood pressure),
Body systems
Urinary System, Digestive System, Respiratory System, Reproductive System, Circulatory System, Cardiovascular System, Exocrine System
I also use Wild Rosemary in my
Pain Relief Blend
Ulcer Relief
Digestive Support
References:
- Roberts, M. 2017. Indigenous Healing Plants. Page 110-111
- Van Wyk, B. Van Oudtshoorn, B. Gericke, N. 2017. Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Page 138
- SANBI. PlantZAfrica.com – http://pza.sanbi.org/eriocephalus-africanus 12/11/19
- – ERIOCEPHALUS HERBA http://pza.sanbi.org/sites/default/files/info_library/eriocephafric.pdf
- Maroyi, A. Department of Biodiversity, University of Limpopo. Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Research. Eriocephalus africanus: A review of its medicinal uses, phytochemistry and biological activities – https://www.jpsr.pharmainfo.in/Documents/Volumes/vol11issue10/jpsr11101929.pdf
- Taylor & Francis Online. Phytochemical constituents and in vitro anticancer screening of isolated compounds from Eriocephalus africanus. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14786419.2020.1744138
- Yvette van Wijk – Ethnobotany notes.
