UK Heritage Organisations

Ubhubhubhu

Ubhubhubhu; Helinus integrifolius Ubhubhubhu is the Xhosa name for a South African herb also known as Helinus integrifolius, though the common name is unknown. Little information can be found on either name, though a study into Xhosa plants and their western names by the South-African Rhodes University suggests the herb may be closely related to the Ilex mitis, a tall evergreen tree indigenous to South Africa. The Xhosa would use Ubhubhubhu in an ‘Ubulawu’ mix. An infusion was taken orally at the initiation of diviners to strengthen memory and give the initiate keen powers of observation. UBULAWU DREAM HERBS Helinus integrifolius is one of the so called ‘Ubulawu’ dream herbs. This is the name associated with a series of plants from Southern Africa that are used for visions and vivid dreams. It is believed one can communicate with the ancestral spirits and gain special insights and answers through use of the Ubulawu herbs. UBHUBHUBHU EFFECTS Helinis integrifolius ha...

Uvuma-omhlope

Uvuma-omhlope; Synaptolepis Kirkii Uvuma-omhlope (Synaptolepis Kirkii) is a bluish-green shrub with striking porcelain white roots. Kirkii is traditionally used by the Zulu and Xhosa to induce spiritual visions, trances and dreams. The roots of the Uvuma-omhlope shrub contain a potent neurotrophic called kirkinine. Neurotrophins are a family of proteins that induce the development and function of neurons. UBULAWU DREAM HERBS Uvuma-omhlope is one of the so called ‘Ubulawu’ dream herbs. This is the name associated with a series of plants from Southern Africa that are used for visions and vivid dreams. It is believed one can communicate with the ancestral spirits and gain special insights and answers through use of the Ubulawu herbs. UVUMA-OMHLOPE EFFECTS There has not been extensive research into the workings of Uvuma-omhlope, but based on traditional use and user experiences, the effects are very similar to African Dream Root (Silene capensis). Uvuma-omhlope encoura...

Rooiwortel

Rooiwortel; Bulbine frutescens Geographical distribution: Eastern Cape Provinces, Free State, Lesotho, Swaziland, Kwazulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. Bulbine is a mostly southern African genus of about 25 species. Most of the bulbines are rather succulent, rosette shaped, stemless or with very short stems. Flowers are characterized by their hairy stamens. Although most species do not have a bulb, the genus name comes from the Greek for bulb. The bulbines have a clear non-toxic non-bitter gel in the leaves that is an ideal cover up treatment for minor cuts and burns. It is very soothing and protective. To increase its soothing qualities the juice of the sour fig (edulis) can be added to remove any stinging sensation (as from herpes eruptions) in the skin. Bulbine frutescens can be used in a drink of water before meals to line the intestines and protect them from irritation. They are ideal for blocking up any holes in the intestine lining that allows half digested food part...

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