PILIOSTIGMA RETICULATUM

PILIOSTIGMA RETICULATUM

Wolof: Ngui guis Goun and Fon: Klon, Klonoma, Kpakpa dakplé, Kongbo.

Use.

The leaves and bark are used in dressings,

fumigations, inhalations in mumps, toothaches, and headaches throughout the Sahelian zone. On the other hand, the leaves and bark are considered as hemostatic, antiseptic used on external ulcers, wounds, and to heal (in circumcision for example). Stems are popular tooth rubs.

Description

Tree or shrub that can measure up to 9 meters in height. It is frequently found in the form of bushes. The very characteristic leaves are thick, leathery, widely indented at the top, and easily recognizable. The flowers are axillary or terminal white. The fruits are woody pods that persist for a long time on the tree and contain several rows of seeds.

Curative action

There is little work on Piliostigma reticulatum. The leaves contain tartaric acid which may explain the antiseptic action, as well as flavonoids which may justify the anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory action

Direction of use

--Anti-inflammatory

Contuse fresh leaves and apply directly to inflamed areas and wounds.

--In the toothache, use the tooth rub to calm the pain.