Plant Details

• Family: Euphorbiaceae.
• Growth: A shrub or tree growing up to 7.5 meters tall, with symmetrical branching and a pyramidal crown.
• Habitat: Found in dry forests, bushlands, and thickets, often on rocky or porous soils. It thrives at elevations between 550–2,250 meters.
• Leaves: Leathery, oblong-elliptic, and aromatic.
• Flowers: Small, yellow, and clustered.
• Roots: Deep and fibrous, often harvested for medicinal purposes.

Preparation and Uses

1. Medicinal Uses:
   • Roots:
     • Used to prepare tonics for colds, fever, tuberculosis, and syphilis.
     • Powdered roots are mixed with porridge or tea to treat impotence and colds.
   • Leaves:
     • Crushed and applied externally to relieve arthritis and toothaches.
     • Decoctions are used to treat malaria and infertility.
   • Stem Bark:
     • Used in remedies for gastrointestinal issues and wound healing.
   • General Health:
     • The plant is known for its antimicrobial, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Preparation Methods:
   • Decoction: Boiling roots, leaves, or bark in water to extract medicinal compounds.
   • Infusion: Steeping plant parts in hot water for a milder preparation.
   • Topical Application: Crushed leaves or bark are applied directly to affected areas.
   • Powder: Dried roots are ground into powder and mixed with food or beverages.
3. Other Uses:
   • Wood:
     • Used in building traditional huts and crafting tools.
   • Indicator Plant:
     • Often found in overgrazed areas, signaling soil degradation.

Health Conditions Tackled

• Respiratory Issues: Colds, tuberculosis, and fever.
• Skin Conditions: Wounds, arthritis, and toothaches.
• Reproductive Health: Infertility and impotence.
• Digestive Problems: Gastrointestinal issues and malaria.

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