- Region
- Africa
- Origin
- South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho
- Traditions
- Traditional healers of Southern Africa
Africa · Herb · № 29
Pelargonium sidoides
Herb · Africa
Umckaloabo (African geranium)
Pelargonium sidoides
Root extract is sold for respiratory complaints. A Cochrane review found little to no evidence of benefit for acute bronchitis, colds, or sinusitis.
Safety notes
There is no high-quality clinical evidence of a therapeutic effect, and most studies came from one manufacturer. See a doctor for persistent or severe respiratory symptoms.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- African healing traditions: Liver damage has been reported; consult a doctor if you have liver disease.
Preparation
Mostly available as a commercial root extract; traditional preparations vary by community.
Use in traditions
The root is used as a traditional remedy in southern Africa. Today the extract is sold under brand names as a supplement or traditional medicine.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
African healing traditions
Attributed effects
The root for coughs, colds, stomach complaints and formerly tuberculosis; in the 19th century it reached Europe through an Englishman seeking a cure.
Preparation and amount
Traditionally as a root decoction; now mainly as a commercial extract. No dosage is given here.
Caution: Liver damage has been reported; consult a doctor if you have liver disease.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Decoction