Uzara - Xysmylobium Undulatum Asclepiadaceae

Traditional names:  Ishongwe, Bitter wortel

Uzara has been used as an infusion to treat diarrhoea, dysentery and stomach cramps (including afterbirth cramps).  It has also been used for fever, colds, oedema, indigestion and dysmenorrhoea, headaches, hysteria, sores, wounds, menstrual pain.

Traditional use: It has been used as an infusion to treat diarrhoea, dysentery and stomach cramps (including afterbirth cramps).  It has also been used for fever, colds, oedema, indigestion and dysmenorrhoea, headaches, hysteria, sores, wounds, menstrual pain. The powdered root is taken as a snuff for headache and for hysteria and seems to have a sedative action.  Externally the powered root is a popular remedy for sores/abscesses and wounds.  The powdered root is sprinkled on skins and hides to prevent dogs gnawing on them. Aids digestion, calms intestinal cramps, relieves flatulence and colic.  Excellent for mild or painful menstruation.

Properties: Antiseptic, sedative, carminative, digestive, disinfectant, antipyretic.

Habitat use: Uzara is native to South Africa, where it is a traditional remedy for diarrhoea, dysentery and colic. Uzara combats diarrhoea by slowing the movement of the bowels. In high dosages, its active ingredient Uzarin acts like digitalis, strengthening heart contractions and steadying the heartbeat. Useful for the treatment of colds and fever. 

Contra-Indications: Check with your doctor before combining this herb with any cardiovascular drugs.

Main chemical components: Uzarin

Plant description: Uzara is a perennial herb of up to about a metre in height, with robust, erect, flowering stems developing from a branched fleshy root system.  The characteristic large leaves are arranged in opposite pairs and exude a milky latex when broken.  Rounded clusters of small, yellowish-brown, bell-shaped flowers are borne along the stems, followed by large, hairy capsules, which contain numerous fluffy seeds.  The roots are pale brown outside and white inside and have a peculiar sweet, somewhat nauseating smell.  The dried roots of 2 – 3 year old plants are used medicinally.