Butterfly Bush
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A small shrub (up to 3.5 m) with blue or purple flowers, aromatic leaves, and black berries when ripe. Common in forest edges, bushland, and rocky areas at altitudes of 1,500–2,400 m.
swahili name
More Local Names
borana:
Mara sisa
DIGO:
duruma:
giriama:
kamba:
Muvweia/ Kiteangwai
kauma:
kikuyu:
Munjuga iria
kipsigis:
Chesamisiet
kisii:
Omonyasese
kuria:
luhya:
Shisilangokho
LUO:
Okwero
maasai:
Ol-makutukut
maragoli:
meru:
mijikenda:
nandi:
NUBI:
OGIEK:
pokomo:
pokot:
rabai:
sabaot:
samburu:
Olmakutukut
suba:
TURKANA:
Scientific Name
Clerodendrum myricoides
plant family
Plant Details and use
1. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
- Use: Roots are boiled into a decoction and taken orally to treat STIs.
- Example: In Samburu County, it is the most commonly used plant for STI management, often used alone or in combination with other herbs.
2. Fever and Malaria
- Use: Leaf decoctions are used to reduce fever and manage malaria symptoms.
- Example: Among the Kipsigis, the leaves are boiled and drunk during malaria episodes.
3. Stomach and Digestive Issues
- Use: Roots or leaves are used to treat stomachaches and indigestion.
- Example: In Marakwet, root infusions are taken for abdominal pain.
4. Wound Healing and Skin Infections
- Use: Crushed leaves are applied to wounds, boils, and skin rashes.
- Example: Among the Luhya, leaf poultices are used for skin infections.
5. Ceremonial and Spiritual Use
- Use: Used in cleansing rituals and traditional ceremonies.
- Example: In Maasai culture, it is burned or used in herbal baths during rites of passage.
6. Bee Forage and Ornamental Use
- Use: Flowers attract bees and sunbirds; also planted for its beauty.
- Example: In Tugen areas, it is grown near homesteads for pollinators.
treatable conditions
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