Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed MonographFR · EN

Rhoicissus tomentosa

Rhoicissus tomentosa
Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of 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 related to pregnancy and childbirth: avoid without advice from a healthcare professional, due to poorly documented risks for mother and child. Scientific data on the toxicity and interactions of this plant remain limited; caution is advised for any internal use. Avoid all internal use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as in children, outside of a locally supervised traditional context. Do not use as a substitute for prescribed medical treatment, especially for chronic or severe conditions.
Decoction — Root

Root decoction

The fresh or dried root, cut into pieces, is gently boiled in water for about twenty minutes according to traditional uses. This preparation, reserved for the most documented traditional internal uses, should be discussed with a professional before any use. Dosage to be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Compress — Leaves

Leaf poultice

Fresh leaves are crushed to obtain a paste, then applied directly to the skin for external use. This poultice was traditionally renewed once or twice daily. Dosage to be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Decoction — Root

Decoction for friction

A concentrated root decoction was prepared then applied by rubbing on painful areas, never ingested for this use. Allow to cool before local application. Dosage to be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Sourcing the plant

This wild vine grows naturally in the coastal forests and wooded margins of southern Africa. Outside its native range, it remains rare except in botanical collections and a few herbalist shops specializing in African plants.

Harvest season

When to harvest

Roots are traditionally harvested in the dry season, while leaves are picked young, in the austral spring.

← Back to plant profile