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Showing posts with the label Traditional Healing

SA 20: Medicines from the Veld: A Journey into Khoisan Traditional Healing

Medicines from the Veld: A Journey into Khoisan Traditional Healing Introduction The Khoisan people, indigenous to Southern Africa, have a rich history of using medicinal plants found in the veld (the open grasslands and shrublands). For centuries, they have relied on these natural remedies to treat various ailments, boost immunity, and maintain overall well-being. In recent times, some of these traditional medicines have even found their way into Western medicine. Artemisia Afra (Wilde Als) Artemisia Afra, commonly known as Wilde Als or African Wormwood, is a powerful herb used by the Khoisan for its immune-boosting properties. While it is not a direct cure for COVID-19, it can help alleviate symptoms and strengthen the body’s defenses against infections. In rural areas, the use of Artemisia Afra has seen an increase during the pandemic 1 . Buchu (Agathosma betulina) Buchu, a fragrant shrub native to South Africa, has been used by the Khoisan for generations. Its leaves are brewed int...