Ox-tongue leaf
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It is commonly found in highland and moist regions of Kenya. It has broad, green, slightly crinkled leaves, and reddish stems. The plant resembles spinach and is often found growing wild in farms, roadsides, and forest edges. It is related to other sorrel species and is known for its sour-tasting leaves.
swahili name
Alukhava
More Local Names
borana:
DIGO:
duruma:
giriama:
kamba:
Kinyonywe
kauma:
kikuyu:
kipsigis:
kisii:
kuria:
luhya:
LUO:
maasai:
maragoli:
meru:
mijikenda:
nandi:
NUBI:
OGIEK:
pokomo:
pokot:
rabai:
sabaot:
Mundililieet-aap-aniyo
samburu:
suba:
TURKANA:
Scientific Name
Rumex steudeli
plant family
Plant Details and use
1. Edible Vegetable
- Use: Young leaves are cooked and eaten like spinach.
- Example: In Kikuyu and Meru communities, it is boiled and served with ugali or mashed potatoes.
2. Digestive Health
- Use: Leaves are used to treat constipation, indigestion, and stomach discomfort.
- Example: Among the Luhya, a decoction of the leaves is taken to relieve bloating and improve digestion1.
3. Skin Conditions
- Use: Crushed leaves are applied to boils, rashes, and insect bites.
- Example: In Kisii, the leaf paste is used to soothe skin irritation and minor wounds.
4. Malaria and Fever
- Use: Root or leaf decoctions are used to reduce fever and manage malaria symptoms.
- Example: In Western Kenya, traditional healers include it in herbal blends for malaria1.
5. Anti-inflammatory and Pain Relief
- Use: Used to relieve joint pain, swelling, and muscle aches.
- Example: In Embu, elders use it as a poultice for arthritis and back pain.
treatable conditions
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