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Herbs & Cultures

From Ayurveda to Rongoā Māori

Herbal knowledge and the cultures that passed it on

Communities around the world learned how plants nourish, care and heal. Here their traditions stand beside present-day use, with respect for every culture.

All 980 herbs from 43 traditions

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Kinkeliba tea
  • Caution

    Africa · Herb · № 371

    Gum arabic (acacia)

    Acacia senegal

    A soluble fibre that forms a mucilaginous solution in water. It soothes the throat and stomach and is being studied as a prebiotic; it can cause wind and bloating. There is no evidence that it treats viral infections such as HPV.

    Ancient Egyptian medicine+2
  • Caution

    Asia · Herb · № 351

    Shikakai

    Senegalia rugata (syn. Acacia concinna)

    Traditionally attributed effects: natural shampoo, cleanses scalp and hair.

    Ayurveda
  • Caution

    Africa · Herb · № 806

    Kinkeliba

    Combretum micranthum

    The leaves are drunk as an everyday tea; traditionally also for fever and digestive complaints. Little studied scientifically.

    Local African healing traditions
Image of Salvia divinorum

Featured · Central America and the Caribbean · Curanderismo

Salvia divinorum

Salvia divinorum

A sage with large leaves containing salvinorin A, a very potent substance acting on the kappa opioid receptor. Brings short-lived, often intense changes in perception and the feeling of leaving the body.

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