Mujaja Tea

Bidens pilosa (Bidens pilosa L.) is a hardy, annual herb recognized by its slender, angular stems and bright, daisy-like yellow blossoms. Leaves are deeply lobed and green, narrowing toward the tips. This adaptable plant thrives in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, often spreading across open fields and roadsides. Traditionally, Bidens pilosa has been valued for its ability to address minor wounds, infections, digestive issues, and inflammation. Its leaves and aerial parts offer a rich variety of bioactive constituents, notably flavonoids and phenolic acids, lending the plant impressive antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immune-supporting properties. Many cultures utilize Bidens pilosa for its broad therapeutic benefits, earning it a respected place in natural medicine.

The African Tulip Tree (Spathodea campanulata) is a striking, fast-growing tree recognized for its vivid orange to scarlet, bell-shaped flowers. Reaching up to 25 meters, it has smooth, grayish bark and long, glossy, pinnate leaves. Native to tropical Africa, it adapts easily and now thrives in Asia, the Caribbean, and the Americas. Traditionally celebrated for its medicinal properties, it has been valued for addressing wounds, inflamed skin, and minor infections. Its bioactive content—including flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids—underpins its medicinal benefits such as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions. The plant’s unique appearance and therapeutic uses make it significant in ornamental landscaping and as a source of natural remedies in communities where it grows.

Plant species found in Africa. The bark of this tree has been used traditionally in African medicine for various health issues such as fever, malaria,diarrhea and pain management.

In traditional medicine, the bark is often prepared as a decoction or infusion and used to treat various ailments such as wounds, stomach disorders, and respiratory infections.

The bark contains various chemical compounds, including tannins and alkaloids, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties.

Research has also shown that the bark of Newtonia buchananii has potential as a natural remedy for skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis.

In traditional medicine, various parts of the plant have been used for their medicinal properties. Here are some of the reported uses of Carissa spinarum Lodd herb: 

Digestive issues: In traditional medicine, Carissa spinarum Lodd has been used to treat digestive disorders such as constipation, diarrhea, and stomach pain. The fruit and roots of the plant have been used to make a decoction or tea to treat ailments in women after birth.

Wound healing: The leaves and bark of the plant have been used topically to promote wound healing, reduce inflammation and swelling.

Antimicrobial properties: Carissa spinarum Lodd has been found to have antimicrobial properties, and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various infections such as skin infections and urinary tract infections

Adenia cissampeloides is a plant species that is native to tropical Africa. It is commonly known as the mboa fruit or the sausage tree. The plant is highly valued for its medicinal properties and has been used in traditional African medicine for centuries. Some of the traditional medicinal uses of Adenia cissampeloides include:

Treatment of gastrointestinal disorders: Adenia cissampeloides is used to treat various gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach pain.

Treatment of infertility: The plant is also used to treat infertility and in women

Treatment of snakebites: The root and stem bark of Adenia cissampeloides are used to treat snake bites.

Treatment of malaria: The plant is used to treat malaria. The root and stem bark of Adenia cissampeloides are used to prepare the medicine for treating malaria.

Vernonia grantii is a species of the Vernonia genus, part of the Asteraceae (daisy) family, and is native to parts of tropical Africa. It is a leafy, shrubby plant often found in forested or savanna regions. Like other Vernonia species (such as Vernonia amygdalina, commonly known as bitter leaf), V. grantii is known for its bitter taste and is used in both traditional cuisine and medicine.

Harvesting typically involves collecting the leaves and sometimes the stems. The leaves are harvested by hand, either fresh or after partial drying, and are used directly or processed (pounded, boiled, or dried) depending on the intended use.

As a spice, Vernonia grantii is not a spice in the conventional sense but is used in cooking for its distinctive bitter flavor. The leaves may be boiled to reduce bitterness and are often included in traditional soups and stews, especially in West and Central African cuisine.

Medicinally, Vernonia grantii is used in traditional herbal medicine to:

• Treat fevers and malaria-like symptoms
• Aid digestion and relieve gastrointestinal issues
• Support liver function
• Act as a general detoxifying agent
• Reduce inflammation and support immune health

The Orange Bird Berry (Hoslundia opposita) is a robust, evergreen shrub that typically reaches up to two meters tall. It is distinguished by its oval, opposite leaves and clusters of small, vibrant orange berries. Native to tropical regions of Africa, it flourishes along riverbanks, forest edges, and open woodlands. Traditionally valued for its medicinal versatility, the plant has been used to address a variety of health concerns, particularly minor pain, skin complaints, and respiratory issues. Its bioactive compounds—notably flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids—are known for their roles in supporting the body’s natural defense systems, encouraging wound healing, and soothing inflammation, making it a respected plant in herbal medicine.

Ocimum gratissimum Lodd., commonly known as African Tree Basil, is a perennial shrub with aromatic, serrated leaves and small white or pale purple flowers. Native to tropical Africa, it flourishes in well-drained soils under full sun, often growing wild near villages or cultivated in home gardens. Traditionally, communities have valued this plant for its potent medicinal properties, employing it in remedies for respiratory ailments, digestive issues, and skin irritations. Rich in essential oils such as eugenol and thymol, O. gratissimum exhibits robust antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, making it a valuable resource in maintaining general well-being and supporting natural health practices.