Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Monograph

Cochlospermum angolense

Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace advice from a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment or use in children, seek advice before use.

Enhanced precautions for this plant: Traditional use with limited scientific documentation: consult a healthcare professional before any use. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, due to insufficient safety data. Do not exceed occasional use and avoid in children without medical advice. Some species of the genus Cochlospermum contain compounds whose interactions with medications are not well established.

Decoction — Dried root, cut into pieces

Traditional root decoction

Root pieces are gently boiled in water for about fifteen minutes, according to practices reported in southern Africa. The filtered liquid was consumed in small quantities, for traditional use only. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Poultice — Crushed bark or exuded gum

Bark or gum poultice

Pounded bark or gum collected from trunk wounds was applied directly to the skin, in traditional external use, to support healing. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Cochlospermum angolense grows wild in the wooded savannas of southern and central Africa; it is not commonly found in European herbalist shops, but may sometimes be available as dried root through specialized African plant suppliers.

Harvest season

When to harvest

Roots and bark are traditionally harvested at the end of the dry season, before vegetation resumes.

← Back to plant profile