Umckaloabo

Umckaloabo; Pelargonium sidoides

For hundreds of years the Zulu, Basuto, Xhosa and Mfengi cultures have used Pelargonium sidoides as a curative for coughs, upper respiratory tract irritations and gastrointestinal concerns. Today, with the advantages of modern science and clinical research, we are able to better understand what makes this traditional remedy work so effectively.

Its success is attributed to impressive clinical results, high consumer satisfaction and a fascinating history that has its roots in South African heritage and culture.

The name Umckaloabo as it is most commonly known in Europe and USA, originates from the Zulu language meaning "heavy cough" but it is not used or associated in its traditional range. “Umckaloabo“ was given to Pelargonium sidoides by Europeans.

Extracts of the root (Umckaloabo) have been available in German pharmacies since 1983 without prescription and have found widespread usage against infections of the sinus, throat and respiratory tract.

Distribution:

Pelargonium sidoides occurs throughout the eastern Cape, Lesotho, Free State and southern and southwestern Gauteng in the Republic of South Africa.

Medicinal uses:

Pelargonium sidoides is used as an alternative to conventional antibiotics or/and as a supplement with antibiotic medication. Traditionally it is also used for acute and chronic ear, nose and throat infections, bronchitis, colds and flu, coughs, gastrointestinal complains, fatigue, fevers, pneumonia, respiratory infections, rhinopharyngitis, sinusitis, sore throats, tonsillitis and weakness.

How it works:

Works differently. While most other cough, cold and sinus medications simply mask outward symptoms, the mechanisms and actions of Pelargonium sidoides actually support faster recovery.

Among the Zulu, the word "umKhulkane' denotes to respiratory infection and 'uHlabo' roughly means chest pain, an indication that it is used for thiese idications.

More: www.herbalafrica.co.za/pelargonium.html