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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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3 results

  • Caution

    Oceania · Herb · № 174

    Gumbi gumbi

    Pittosporum spp.

    Leaves, seeds or wood were steeped in hot water and drunk or used externally, for example for colds, coughs, eczema and cramps. Laboratory research points to antimicrobial compounds; clinical studies are lacking.

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge+1
  • Caution

    Oceania · Food · № 53

    Kakadu plum (gubinge)

    Terminalia ferdinandiana

    A bush food with exceptionally high vitamin C, measured at 2,300–3,150 mg per 100 grams.

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge
  • Caution

    Africa · Food · № 11

    Rooibos

    Aspalathus linearis

    A caffeine-free herbal infusion used as a beverage; it is not an established treatment.

    Khoi and San knowledge of rooibos+1
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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