swahili name
Mvunguti
More Local Names
borana:
DIGO:
duruma:
giriama:
Mokwoka
kamba:
Muatine
kauma:
kikuyu:
Muratina
kipsigis:
Ratuinet
kisii:
kuria:
luhya:
Kumufungu
LUO:
Yago
maasai:
Oldarpoi
maragoli:
meru:
Murantina
mijikenda:
nandi:
Ratinuet
NUBI:
OGIEK:
pokomo:
Mbwoka
pokot:
Rotin
rabai:
sabaot:
samburu:
Imombi
suba:
TURKANA:
Edot
Scientific Name
Kigelia africana
plant family
Plant Details and use
1. Cultural Use in Fermentation
- Use: Dried fruits are used to ferment traditional alcoholic beverages.
- Example: Among the Kikuyu (muratina) and Kamba (kaluvu), the fruit is dried, treated with honey and bee pollen, and used in ceremonial brews.
2. Skin Conditions
- Use: Extracts from fruits, bark, and flowers are used to treat eczema, psoriasis, fungal infections, boils, leprosy, and impetigo.
- Example: In Western Kenya, fruit paste is applied to skin lesions and sores.
3. Gynecological and Reproductive Health
- Use: Used to treat menstrual disorders, infertility, and STIs.
- Example: Among the Maasai, bark decoctions are used for gynecological cleansing.
4. Cancer and Tumor Treatment
- Use: Extracts are used in traditional cancer remedies, especially for skin cancer and tumors.
- Example: Scientific studies show inhibition of melanoma cell growth by Kigelia extract.
5. Wound Healing and Anti-inflammatory Use
- Use: Unripe fruit is used as a dressing for wounds, rheumatism, and hemorrhages.
- Example: In Rift Valley, fruit pulp is applied to swollen joints and injuries.
6. Internal Ailments
- Use: Used for malaria, diabetes, dysentery, pneumonia, convulsions, and toothache.
- Example: In Luhya communities, bark decoctions are taken for malaria and stomach issues.
7. Male Vitality and Libido
- Use: Used to treat erectile dysfunction and prostate health.
- Example: In Coastal Kenya, fruit extracts are used to enhance male vitality.
treatable conditions
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