swahili name
More Local Names
borana:
DIGO:
duruma:
giriama:
kamba:
kauma:
kikuyu:
kipsigis:
kisii:
kuria:
luhya:
LUO:
maasai:
maragoli:
meru:
mijikenda:
nandi:
NUBI:
OGIEK:
pokomo:
pokot:
rabai:
sabaot:
samburu:
suba:
TURKANA:
Scientific Name
Pentas lanceolata
plant family
Plant Details and use
arPlant Details
- Family: Rubiaceae.
- Growth: A shrub or herbaceous plant that grows up to 1.5 meters tall, with lance-shaped green leaves and clusters of star-shaped flowers in colors like red, pink, white, or purple.
- Habitat: Thrives in tropical, subtropical, and temperate climates, preferring well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
- Flowers: Small, vibrant, and attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds.
Preparation and Uses
- Medicinal Uses:
- Leaves:
- Used as an anti-inflammatory remedy for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, and gout.
- Crushed and applied to wounds or skin irritations for their soothing properties.
- Roots:
- Traditionally used to ease joint pain and muscle inflammation.
- Herbal Tea:
- Fresh or dried leaves are steeped to create a tea that helps alleviate fatigue, colic pain, and symptoms of chronic conditions like diabetes mellitus or hypothyroidism.
- Leaves:
- Ornamental Uses:
- Widely cultivated in gardens for its vibrant flowers and ability to attract pollinators.
- Used as a decorative plant in landscapes and containers.
- Preparation Methods:
- Tea: Leaves are dried and steeped in hot water for medicinal benefits.
- Topical Application: Crushed leaves or roots are applied directly to affected areas.
- Tincture: Leaves are soaked in alcohol to create a concentrated extract for internal use.
Health Conditions Tackled
- Inflammatory Conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, and gout.
- Skin Issues: Wounds, irritations, and minor infections.
- Fatigue and Chronic Conditions: Diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, and general debility.
- Colic Pain: Provides relief for young children.
treatable conditions
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