Powerful South African traditional  medicine

The Western Cape is home to a wide range of indigenous medicinal plants that have been used for generations by the Khoisan and other local communities. Many of these plants are still used today for common health concerns, from colds and digestive issues to skin conditions and inflammation.

This guide provides practical information on well-known medicinal plants found in the region, including their traditional uses, properties and where they grow. It focuses on clear, useful details rather than theory, making it easier to understand how these plants are used in everyday life.

When the Dutch settlers arrived in the Cape, they were introduced to South African medicinal Plants and recreational plants that were used by the indigenous people.

The potency of South African medicinal plants has long been recognised by international pharmaceutical companies. They are used for many varied applications. These properties are even recognised for the treatment of more serious diseases. African ginger has been found to possibly prevent strokes, and there are even plants that have shown positive results in the treatment of cancer.

The medicinal crops are often easy to grow and can be found in many gardens. The plants contain powerful compounds which can relieve the symptoms of diseases, but all these should be taken with caution and preferably under medical supervision.

Indigenous Medicinal Plants

African potato

The scientific name for this is Hypoxis hemerocallidea. This hardy and drought-resistant plant is native to South Africa. Traditional healers have used this for muthi to treat delirium, ‘bad blood, diabetes, PMS and as a parasiticide.

Its uses include applying it as a poultice or ointment to treat arthritis, psoriasis and fibromyalgia. The African potato is also used to treat skin conditions such as eczema, acne, scars, burns, rashes, bedsores, warts, stretch marks, sunburn, insect bites and dry skin.

The pulp has a high sterol and sterolin content. Therefore, this may possess potent anti-inflammatory and immune-strengthening properties.

The action of these compounds is similar to cortisone, and the use of a product from African Potato may reverse tissue damage. It is a powerful antioxidant and free-radical remover that may have an anti-ageing effect.

Sour fig (Carpobrotus edulis)

 

Sour fig is a common coastal plant found along South Africa’s sandy beaches and dunes, where it plays an important ecological role in stabilising shifting sand. It forms dense ground cover and produces bright purple flowers, followed by fleshy edible fruit.

The fruit is widely used to make jam, a popular product sold at coastal farm stalls. It is also known by several local names, including hotnotsvy, suurvy, perdevy and ghaukum.

Traditionally, the leaves are used for their astringent juice, which is believed to have antiseptic properties. It is applied externally to treat minor cuts, insect bites, eczema, ringworm and sunburn. Taken diluted with water, it is also used for sore throats and mild digestive upset such as diarrhoea.

This plat can be found in many  coastal towns such as

Aloe Ferox

The Aloe is one of the South African medicinal Plants that is known worldwide. There are over 500 species of Aloe. This perennial succulent plant with greyish-green leaves grows up to 3 metres tall. It is also called Bitter aloe, tap aloe, cape aloe, red aloe or inlaba in isiZulu and ikhala isiXhosa.

The gel-like flesh from the insides of the leaves is extremely versatile. This indigenous plant is used for many things.

The commercial possibilities of using aloe in cosmetics have been well exploited in the last few years. The healing and nourishing sap from the leaves has been traditionally used for much longer. It has been used for eczema, other skin irritations and bruises. It helps relieve stomach problems. It helps deal with stress and hypertension. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is even used as a laxative.

See Albertinia

Bush Tea

The Afrikaans name for this useful product is Boesmanstee, and in Zulu it is called Icholocholo, itshelo, or umthsanelo. This plant with soft green leaves and purple flowers is a popular garden plant.

In traditional medicine is mostly wild-harvested. The leaves are brewed or chewed for the relief of sore throats by the Sotho and Xhosa people. The Venda use extracts of the roots and leaves against parasites. It is used for cleansing and purifying the blood and for treating headaches. In some areas, it is believed to have aphrodisiac qualities.

There have not been any extensive laboratory tests, but bush tea has been used traditionally for antibacterial, antifungal and antimicrobial action. The tea has been used to treat heart problems, diabetes, and diarrhoea and has even been used to treat venereal diseases.

It could have some commercial value as an antioxidant-rich caffeine-free herbal tea with a flavour reminiscent of caramel and vanilla.

Pineapple flower

This lily is a popular garden plant. It looks a bit like a green pineapple. The scientific name is Eucomis autumnalis. It is also called krulkoppie in Afrikaans, ubuhlungu becanti or isithithibala esimathunzi in Xhosa and umathunga, ukhokho or umakhandakantsele in Zulu. Eucomis in Greek eukomos, means ‘beautiful hair. Autumnalis because the fruit appears in autumn.

The bulb is toxic, but it is popular with traditional healers who use it in water or milk as an enema for lower back pain, stomach aches, colic and flatulence.

It is said to relieve hangovers, treat syphilis, break fevers and induce birth. Flavonoids present in the pineapple lily have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory actions and are antifungal. Studies done at the University of Natal have validated its use for treating fever and pain associated with inflammation. It is used as a remedy postoperatively and is also used in the treatment of bone fractures.

Wild dagga (Leonotis leonurus)

Wild dagga is a strongly aromatic South African shrub traditionally used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. It is known for its orange flower clusters and mild relaxing properties.

The leaves are used in traditional medicine to help with chest conditions such as coughs, colds, bronchitis and flu. It is also applied externally for skin irritations and muscular aches.

In some traditional practices, wild dagga is smoked or brewed as a tea for its calming, mildly sedative effects. It has also been used for epilepsy-related symptoms and to promote relaxation.

The plant is widely recognised in South Africa as a herbal remedy with both respiratory and soothing applications, and is sometimes used as a natural alternative in traditional smoking blends.

Koigoed (Helichrysum odoratissimum)

The other common names for koigoed are Everlasting in English and imphepho in isiXhosa. It is a strong aromatic perennial herb or small shrub. The plant grows to about 25 cm tall.  especially in coastal and mountainous regions. It has soft, grey-green leaves and small, clustered flowers that are often used in traditional medicine and rituals. The hairy, silvery, oval-shaped leaves are picked as soon as the plant is big enough. Twigs and leaves are used for colds, coughs, infections, headaches, fevers, menstrual pains and other problems..

In traditional use, Helichrysum is valued for its cleansing and protective properties and has been used for colds, coughs, fever, headaches, wounds and skin irritations. It is also commonly burned or used in preparations for its calming and purifying effects.

Modern herbal use includes Helichrysum essential oil, which is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and skin-repairing properties. It is often used in natural skincare for bruises, scars, insect bites and minor wounds, and is also popular in aromatherapy for relaxation and stress relief

Pelargonium sidoides

The common name for this Klawerbossie or rabassamin, rooi rabas in Afrikaans and umckaloabo in isiZulu.  The velvety, long-stalked leaves are slightly aromatic. It has dark reddish-purple flowers.

Pelargonium sidoides is traditionally used for the treatment of coughs, sore throats and chest troubles. It is effective for bronchitis, particularly for children.

Fatigue and weakness can be treated using parts of the plant. Infusions of the tuber are used to treat dysentery and diarrhoea.

Sutherlandia frutescens (Cancer bush)

Sutherlandia frutescens, commonly known as cancer bush or “unwele” in isiXhosa, is a hardy indigenous shrub widely found across South Africa. It has fine, grey-green leaves and bright red flowers, making it easy to identify in the veld.

It has been used for generations in traditional medicine to support general health and recovery from illness. The plant is often prepared as a tea or infusion made from the leaves.

Traditional uses include support for immune health, fatigue, stress, and loss of appetite. It is also commonly used for fever, infections, and general weakness during illness. In modern herbal practice, it is often described as an adaptogenic plant, meaning it may help the body cope with physical and emotional stress.

Although widely used, Sutherlandia is considered a strong medicinal plant and is generally taken in controlled amounts.

African Wormwood (Artemisia afra)

African wormwood is one of South Africa’s best-known medicinal plants and is widely found across most provinces. It is an aromatic, bushy shrub with finely divided grey-green leaves and a strong, distinctive scent when crushed.

Traditionally, African wormwood is used for respiratory and digestive conditions. It is commonly prepared as a tea, steam inhalation, or infusion from fresh or dried leaves.

It is used for colds, flu, coughs, fever, sinus congestion, and chest infections. It is also traditionally used for stomach ailments such as indigestion, cramps, and intestinal worms. In some communities, it is used as a steam remedy for headaches and blocked sinuses.

African wormwood is still widely used in home remedies today and remains one of the most important indigenous medicinal plants in South Africa.

Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens / H. zeyheri)

Devil’s Claw is a low-growing, ground-spreading plant found in the dry regions of the Kalahari, including parts of the Northern Cape, North West and Limpopo. It produces a striking purple-pink trumpet-shaped flower in summer, followed by hooked seed pods that give the plant its common name. The medicinal value lies in its underground tubers, which store nutrients and moisture in harsh desert conditions.

Traditionally used by Khoisan and Bantu-speaking communities, Devil’s Claw has been taken for indigestion, fevers, blood-related ailments, sprains and general pain relief. Today, it is best known for its use in managing arthritis and inflammation, and is widely used in natural anti-inflammatory products.

The plant grows in sandy, well-drained soils and is slow to mature, often taking several years before it can be harvested. It is a protected species in several countries, and controlled harvesting is required to prevent overexploitation.

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Succulents & Arid Region Plants

Sour plum (Ximenia caffra)

The Sour plum is used to treat infertility, and the powdered root is considered to be an aphrodisiac. It is consumed to treat fever. The plant is eaten raw.

African Ginger(Siphonochilus aethiopicus).

This popular herbal medicine is used by Zulus to protect against snakes and lightning.
Only the roots of the plant are used. They are high in minerals and contain vitamins B3 and B5

The Cornell University Medical College has found that “gingerol”, which is found in the plant, inhibits an enzyme that causes cells to clot. This may prevent strokes.
The oil is anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal. Ginger oil is used to treat fractures, and as a hot compress, it is used for rheumatism and arthritis. Ginger successfully treats digestive problems, nausea and even hangovers. It helps in the treatment of colds and flu. Ginger is known to relieve a sore throat, congestion, coughs and sinusitis. Skin conditions such as sores on the skin and bruises can be treated with ginger oil. The Swati people employ this to treat malaria

Conventionally, it has been used to aid digestion and relieve sinusitis and asthma. It also reduces fevers by inducing sweating.

Hoodia (Hoodia gordonii / Hoodia milkweed)

Hoodia is a spiny, leafless succulent found mainly in the arid regions of the Northern Cape and parts of the Western Cape. It grows in harsh desert conditions and is well adapted to extreme heat and dry soil. The plant produces pale purple, saucer-shaped flowers that are pollinated by insects attracted to its strong scent.

Traditionally used by the San people, Hoodia is best known as a natural appetite suppressant. It was used on long hunting journeys to reduce hunger and thirst. The stems are sometimes peeled and eaten raw in small amounts.

Today, Hoodia is still valued in traditional medicine and modern herbal products. It is used for appetite control, digestive discomfort, and general energy balance. It is also linked in traditional use to easing stomach cramps and supporting people in times of physical stress. Because of its strength and active compounds, it is generally used with caution.

Hoodia is a protected plant species in many regions, and harvesting or trade often requires permits.

Aromatic & Essential Oil Plants

Moringa Cape Snowbush Wild Rosemary

The scientific name of this evergreen shrub, which grows to about 1.5 metres high, is Eriocephalus Africanus. It is also called kapokbos in Afrikaans or wild rosemary. It has silvery leaves which reflect sunlight. Rubbing the leaves, the plant gives off a fresh camphor-like smell. The roots, bark and immature pods are used for medicine. This is a South African medicinal Plant that is used in commercial supplements

It is used as a relaxant and mood enhancer by the Khoi people. Moringa is believed to encourage hair growth. It can be used as a diuretic to clear toxins from the body. The extracts from the plant are used to treat coughs and colds and to soothe headaches. It is also used to treat wounds or insect bites, bacterial or fungal skin complaints, and gastric ulcers. Moringa is used to treat liver and spleen problems and joint pains. The nutrients found in the plant assist in staving off malnutrition.

Wild rosemary oil relieves muscle spasms and is also effective in stopping bleeding. It has antiseptic and antiviral properties. Tea from the plant is used to help with addictions and to let go of negative emotions. It has an invigorating effect and acts as an antidepressant. It helps to relieve stress, anxiety and anger. The leaves are smoked to relieve asthma and other respiratory issues.

Lippia javanica (Lemon bush / Fever tea)

Lippia javanica is a strongly aromatic shrub widely used in Southern African traditional medicine. It is known for its lemon-like scent and is commonly used as a herbal tea, for steam inhalation, or as a topical wash.

The leaves, twigs and roots are used by the Xhosa and other communities to support general health and to treat coughs, bronchial infections and flu-related symptoms. It is often mixed with other medicinal plants such as African wormwood (Artemisia afra) for fever relief.

When applied externally as a diluted infusion, it can help soothe skin irritation, rashes, lice and minor skin conditions. The plant is also used in cleansing practices and is traditionally believed to offer protection against insects such as mosquitoes.

The smoke from burning leaves is used to repel mosquitoes and is sometimes inhaled for respiratory relief. Crushed leaves are used to deter ticks, fleas and mites in animal bedding.

Lippia javanica is also used in traditional preparations such as “imbiza”, a multi-plant herbal tonic used for general immune support.

Modern research indicates that the plant contains volatile oils with antimicrobial, antioxidant and insect-repellent properties. It is now used commercially in natural mosquito repellents and essential oil products.

Rooibos (Red Bush Tea)

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) is an indigenous shrub found only in the Cederberg region of the Western Cape. The Afrikaans name means “red bush”, referring to the reddish colour of the fermented leaves used to make tea.

Rooibos is one of South Africa’s most well-known herbal teas and has a long history of use among Khoi-descended communities. The leaves are harvested, bruised, fermented and dried before being brewed as a caffeine-free tea.

Rooibos is naturally rich in minerals such as magnesium, zinc and iron, and contains high levels of antioxidants. It is often promoted for its ability to help protect cells from oxidative stress. It is also low in tannins, which makes it gentle on the digestive system.

Traditionally, rooibos tea has been used to help with stomach cramps, indigestion and mild digestive discomfort. It is naturally caffeine-free, making it suitable as a daily drink and sometimes used for infants experiencing colic. It is also consumed during pregnancy for nausea and heartburn relief.

Modern use focuses on its antioxidant content, mild antispasmodic properties and general wellness benefits. Rooibos is widely regarded as a signature South African herbal tea and is now grown commercially for local use and export.

See Clanwilliam

Buchu (Agathosma species)

Buchu is a well-known indigenous medicinal plant from the Western Cape, traditionally used by the Khoisan people for both medicinal and cosmetic purposes. It has a long history in the Cape and is often referred to as one of South Africa’s most valuable natural herbs.

Traditionally, the leaves were chewed or brewed as a tea, sometimes sweetened with honey or brown sugar. Buchu is also prepared as a tincture or used externally as an infusion, ointment or essential oil.

It has been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including stomach ailments, urinary tract issues, bruises, sprains and rheumatism. It is also known for its insect-repelling and skin-soothing properties.

Modern research highlights buchu’s anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties. It contains natural compounds such as flavonoids and vitamins A, B and E, and is widely consumed today as a herbal tea or natural health supplement.

Rose geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)

Cape rose geranium is indigenous to South Africa. Sotho people use the paste to treat abscesses and wounds. It is also used to treat PMS and menopausal issues.

Essential oil made from Rose Geranium is used to balance the mind and body and as an anti-depressant. It is also anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory. The oil can be massaged into the skin to reduce excess sebum, and it helps to repair burns and broken capillaries.

Rose geranium is used in the food industry as a flavouring, particularly for pink foodstuffs.

The oil contains geraniol and citronellol and therefore is a good insect repellent.

Wild garlic (Tulbagia)

This indigenous plant is called wildeknoflok or perswilde knoffel in Afrikaans and isweli-lezinyoka or isihaqa in isiZulu.

The remedies made from the narrow strap leaves and fat, tuberous roots of Tulbagia are used to treat fever, rheumatism, asthma and constipation.

When the fresh bulbs are boiled in water, the decoction is drunk to treat coughs and colds. This is used to treat pulmonary tuberculosis.  It is also used to destroy intestinal worms. The leaves are used to treat cancer of the oesophagus.

Cape Chamomile (Eriocephalus punctulatus)

Cape chamomile is a small fynbos shrub found in the Western and Eastern Cape. It has fine, soft foliage and produces a distinctive aromatic oil with a deep blue colour when distilled. The plant is part of the broader Cape floral kingdom and grows well in mountain and coastal areas.

Traditionally, Cape chamomile is used for calming and soothing purposes. The leaves and oils are associated with relaxation, sleep support, and easing stress and tension. It has also been used for headaches and mild pain relief.

In modern use, Cape chamomile oil is valued in aromatherapy and skincare for its anti-inflammatory and calming properties. It is often used in massage oils and natural remedies for muscle tension and skin irritation.

Because it is so gentle, it is considered one of the more soothing indigenous medicinal plants

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Trees with Medicinal Uses

Camphor bush

Camphor bush has the scientific name Tarchonanthus camphoratus, African wild sage or ‘vaalbos’  in Afrikaans. It is also known as leleshwa. It is a tree that grows up to 9 metres tall. The name refers to the strong smell of the crushed grey leaves. The oils from the leaves are used to treat fevers, wounds and cuts. Camphor is a natural preservative. The fluffy heads of the flowers are used to stuff pillows, and it is believed that their insect-repelling properties aid a good night’s sleep

Inhaling the smoke of burning Camphor bush leaves clears blocked sinuses and relieves headaches. Decoctions of the leaves are used to treat coughs, toothache, bronchitis and even abdominal pains. An ointment containing camphor can be used to massage aching muscles, and Camphor Bush oil is also used for its anti-irritant properties on sensitive skin.

. Animals can be seen rubbing against the bushes. It is assumed that this is done to keep insects away.  The wood of the camphor tree is heavy, and it is resistant to termites. It is ideal for storage kits.

Parsley Tree

The scientific name of this tree is Heteromorpha arborescens. In Afrikaans, Wildepietersielie and Zulu Umbangandlala . 4 varieties are widely distributed in Southern Africa. This shrubby tree has important medicinal properties and has varied uses in traditional remedies. The roots, leaves and bark are used to treat,

• abdominal pain, colic, cough, tuberculosis, dysentery, fever, headaches, asthma, infertility, mental problems, nervous disorders, shortness of breath, and intestinal worms

The main uses, however, are for respiratory issues such as colds and flu.

The use of the Parsley tree against intestinal worms has been validated in clinical trials, and trials using it for rheumatism and other chronic inflammatory conditions show promising results. Researchers have found that compounds found in the leaves have effects on the serotonergic and dopaminergic systems. These can be used to calm the nervous system.

Adaptogen, which is also found in the plant, helps the body by protecting against stress-induced immune suppression and heart damage. The adaptogens also enhance brain function

Other compounds in the Parsley tree have anti-inflammatory and anti-mycobacterial properties.

This plant has many uses and shows great potential for commercial use. However, there I evidence that the plant could be toxic in medium to long-term use.

Baobab  Tree ( digitata)

This odd-looking tree, familiar in Africa, is known to be long-lived, and trees of over 1000 years old have been found. The flowers are pollinated by bats, and a long oval fruit with oil-rich seeds is produced. Trees have been known to take up to 23 years before they produce any fruit.

Emergency water can be extracted from the branches and trunk, and the fruit is a natural source of calcium, magnesium, potassium and B-complex vitamins. A drink high in vitamin C is also made.

While this tree provides food, water and fibre, it also has medicinal uses. The young leaves are used to treat fever. The lightly scented oil from the seeds is edible but is mostly used in the cosmetic industry. The oil is known to be a powerful antioxidant that can reduce damage to the DNA in cells. The cold-pressed oil also contains vitamins A, E, K, and D3 and is used to heal inflamed gums and chapped lips. It is used as a moisturiser for skin and hair. The oil is a soothing treatment for psoriasis and eczema

In addition to all these benefits, the stringy fibres in the bark are used to make ropes, paper and are also woven to make fabrics.

Pepperbark Tree (Warburgia salutaris)

The pepperbark tree is an aromatic evergreen tree found mainly in the northern and eastern parts of South Africa. It has a distinctive peppery smell in both bark and leaves, which makes it easy to recognise in the wild.

Traditionally, the bark and roots are used in powdered or decoction form. It is widely used in traditional medicine for colds, coughs, fever, and chest infections. It is also used for stomach problems, flu-like symptoms, and general infections.

The powdered bark is sometimes used as a snuff to clear nasal congestion. It has also been traditionally used for malaria-related symptoms and as a general tonic for weakness.

Because of heavy traditional and commercial use, the pepperbark tree has become threatened in some regions, and conservation is an important issue.

See also Franschhoek Indigenous Medicinal and Herb Garden.

 

 

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