The Medicinal Plants Page 
Group 2

 

Interview - Research

 
I - INTERVIEW
Our group decided to interview Kerry (a game ranger) because she is very knowledgeable about everything about nature.

 
Nabeelah  do you make your own medicine? please motivate your answer.
   
Kerry  in some cases I do, if you do not know the method it can be very dangerous .
   
Nabeelah  is the medicine suitable for all ages?
   

Kerry

  yes it is suitable for all ages, it has no side effects and is all natural
   

Nabeelah

 which plant do you use to cure headaches?
   

Kerry

  I don't use anything, I leave it to cure itself.
   

Nabeelah

  seeing as you live in a Malarial environment, what do you use as protection?
   

Kerry

  if we get bitten, we take Niviquin (doctor's choice)but we take precautions 
   

Nabeelah

  name some medicinal plants found in this area-what does it cure?
   

Kerry

  Lead wood tree (leaves) cures colds and coughs
   Mopane tree (bark) cures diarrhea
   Sour plum tree (leaves) reduces fever
   Hak en Steek shrub (leaves) used to draw out puss from boils, etc
   Mother in-law's tongue tree (leaves) cures earaches
   Purple pan weed (shrub) carries out abortions
 

II - RESEARCH

We did research on four different medicinal plants namely: Devil's claw, Thornapple, Buchu and Common Guarri.  

 
Devil's Claw
Devil's Claw originates from Northern Cape and Northern Limpopo. It is used to cure arthritis and digestive disorders when boiled. it also cures sores, ulcers and boils  when an ointment is made from the roots. There are no side effects-as it is a all natural. It really does work, it has been scientifically proven and is sold at local drug stores.    
 
Common Guarri
The Common Guarri is only found on the outer skirts of South Africa( not in the central part)   

This plant can be used to help cure heart disease, relief head and toothaches. The root can be used for purgative, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. There are a few side effects: It is a well-known medicinal plant and is often used by most traditional healers.

Thornapple

This tree is found in the eastern part of South Africa. It is used to reduce pain and asthma. The fruit can be used to cure toothaches and leaves, when boiled, is used to heal wounds. The alkaloids are highly toxic and have numerous side effects on a wide range of receptors. High dosage may lead to hallucination and mental confusion. It is a well-known drug and is distributed in South Africa.

Buchu

This shrub originates from the Western and Northern Cape in South Africa. It can be used for treating kidney ailments, urinary tract diseases and stomach complaints. Buchu brandy is buchu leaves soaked in vinegar and is used for external wounds and bruises.  

 
 
 Created by Nabeelah Roobee Mobara