Aloe rabaiensis is a succulent and dense shrub related to aloe vera. It is native to east tropical Africa, particularly southern Somalia, Kenya and northern Tanzania. Grown as an ornamental, A. rabaiensis is highly sought-after by succulent collectors and also produces a gel that’s rich in polysaccharides and lectins. And like its more famous cousin, the leaves, roots … Continue reading Researchers look at aloe rabaiensis – a lesser-known but equally medicinal aloe species
Evaluating the cytotoxicity of plant-derived phenolic compounds toward human carcinoma cells
In this study, researchers from Kenya, Cameroon and Turkey evaluated the cytotoxicity of 11 naturally occurring compounds on human carcinoma cell lines and normal fibroblasts. Their findings were published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. Cancer is a major health issue worldwide, and its treatment mainly relies on chemotherapy.In search of natural anti-cancer agents, … Continue reading Evaluating the cytotoxicity of plant-derived phenolic compounds toward human carcinoma cells
Hottentot fig, a medicinal plant from South Africa, can treat common ailments without causing blood toxicity
Hottentot fig, scientifically known as Carpobrotus edulis, is an edible ground cover plant native to South Africa. Cultivated as an ornamental and a soil-stabilizing plant, Hottentot fig is also harvested from the wild for its edible fruit and medicinal uses. In fact, this flowering plant is one of the most common plants used in traditional medicine … Continue reading Hottentot fig, a medicinal plant from South Africa, can treat common ailments without causing blood toxicity
