Medicinal plants

Medicinal plants are vitally important in preventing and treating disease in rural Africa. They are often used in a traditional holistic approach to health.

In rural areas ‘traditional medical practitioners’ use their vast knowledge of useful wild plants to treat patients.

The most popular plants often become vulnerable due to demand and pressure from agriculture and other land uses.

Sustainable use and conservation of these plants is becoming increasingly important.

Did you know?
Sutherlandia frutescens (also known as Cancer Bush) has long been used in South Africa as a medicinal plant for:

Boosting energy
Increasing immunity
Relieving stress, arthritis, asthma and many other illnesses
Current research suggests it may hold a key to relieving the symptoms of HIV/AIDS

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