Impepho holds deep spiritual and cultural importance on South African soil. But the mighty plant, found mostly in grassy areas with high rainfall, also has many healing benefits.
In an article published on Health For Mzansi, journalist Vateka Halile taps into impepho’s power.
In the article, heritage activist Madoda Mditshwa explains that impepho is a frequently used herb in spiritual rituals and for purifying the air in a household. It is believed to ward off negative spirits and omens.
According to him, the spiritual and medicinal properties are not sufficient to encompass all its uses.
“One elder told me that they used to use impepho yamawele for oral hygiene, to make their teeth white and clean. Hopefully, with the removal of stigma around African healing methods, we shall again rediscover the full knowledge and potential of African herbs.”
The healing powers of impepho
The article also features Durban-based sangoma Zamambo Mkhize, who talks about the herb’s purifying abilities, African medicinal uses and how she processes impepho. It also looks at the different types of impepho and their uses.
The plant’s many health benefits are also discussed by Dr Christie van Zyl, a traditional health practitioner, who explains how impepho stimulates the body.
She says boiling it with rooibos tea can help alleviate menstrual pains, and it also works as a detox. When boiled with honey, it can help alleviate chest or asthma difficulties, among other benefits.
Want to know where impepho grows best? In the article, experts shares where this magic plant and its different varieties can be found.
Read the full story here. It was first published on Health For Mzansi and written by Vateka Halile.
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