The dried root is traditionally broken into fragments and gently boiled in water for about fifteen minutes. This preparation is then filtered before use, according to reported local practices. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
The inflorescences are boiled, and the resulting liquid, once cooled, is traditionally used to wash the skin or apply local compresses. This preparation is not intended for internal use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
The root is dried in the shade and then ground into fine powder, sometimes mixed with other plant substances according to local traditions. A professional should be consulted before any use of this concentrated form. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Thonningia is found in the wild, parasitizing the roots of various trees in forest and savanna areas of West and Central Africa. It is sometimes offered dried in traditional African markets but remains rare in European herbalist shops.
The harvest of inflorescences and roots is traditionally carried out during the rainy season, the flowering period of this discreet parasitic plant.