Leonotis Medicinal Uses

Leonotis Medicinal Uses are numerous. The Leonotis Genus contains 9 accepted species, namely Leonotis decadonta, Leonotis goetzei, Leonotis grandis, Leonotis leonurus, Leonotis myricifolia, Leonotis myrothamnifolia, Leonotis nepetifolia, Leonotis ocymifolia and Leonotis pole-evansii. For the purpose of this article, we will focus on the medicinal benefits of Klip Dagga (Leonotis nepetifolia) and Wild Dagga (Leonotis leonurus).

Leonotis Medicinal Uses Overview

The plants have antimicrobial,  anti-nociceptive, analgesic, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has long been used in African traditional medicine. The plant is used medicinally both topically and orally. The leaves and flowers are reported to produce a mild euphoric effect when smoked and have been said to have a similar, although less potent, psychoactive effect to cannabis.

Among its benefits, it may help in the treatment of:

• Colds, fever, pneumonia, bronchitis, headaches and asthma.
• Arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
• Irregular heartbeats / palpitations.
• Heart conditions associated with anxiety and hypertension.
• Dysentery, diarrhea, constipation and cramps.
• Malaria, poisoning, syphilis, snakebite and spider bites.
• Hemorrhoids, eczema, skin rashes, boils, itching.
• Epilepsy.

Caution: The plant is not recommended during pregnancy.

Leonotis Herbal Preparations and Uses

Parts Used:  Roots, Seeds, Flowers and Leaves.

• Decoction.
• Compress.
• Infusion.
• Tincture.
• Creams.
• Dried Form.

Leonotis Herbal Recipes

Leonotis Tea

• Add 1-4 teaspoons Leonotis flower petals to one cup of hot, boiling water.
• Steep for 10-15 minutes.
• You can add honey to sweeten the tea.