Star Flower.

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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

  1. 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.
  2. Ornamental Uses:
    • Widely cultivated in gardens for its vibrant flowers and ability to attract pollinators.
    • Used as a decorative plant in landscapes and containers.
  3. 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.

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treatable conditions