Botanical Overview
Kigelia africana, commonly known as Sausage Tree or Kigelia, belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. It is native to tropical and sub-Saharan Africa. Various parts of the plant—fruit, bark, leaves, flowers, and roots—are utilized medicinally.
Energetics
The plant is characterized by a cooling temperature and drying moisture quality. Its taste profile includes bitter and astringent notes. It is generally considered to have relaxing tonicity.
Primary Actions
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Astringent
- Anthelmintic
- Wound healing
Indications
Western
- Skin infections
- Wounds
- Eczema
- Fungal infections
- Inflammation
- Arthritis pain
- Helminthiasis
- Venereal diseases
- Dysentery
- Diarrhea
Syndromes
- Dermatitis
- Infected wounds
- Helminth infestations
- Venereal infections
- Chronic inflammation
- Musculoskeletal pain
TCM
Not established.
Ayurveda
Not established.
Unani
Not established.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Rich in phytochemicals such as naphthoquinones, iridoids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, saponins, sterols, and tannins responsible for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Topical ointments and creams from fruit extracts
- Decoction of bark or roots for oral use
- Poultices from mashed fruit for wound healing
- Infusion of leaves for antimicrobial application
Safety & Contraindications
Topical use is generally safe but can cause skin irritation or photosensitivity in susceptible individuals. Oral use carries potential toxicity risks; traditional uses should be supervised. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid internal use. No significant drug interactions reported; caution advised when combined with other antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory medicines.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Phytochemical and pharmacological review of Kigelia africana – Mahomed & Ojewole, Phytotherapy Research, 2015
- Kigelia africana: A useful medicinal plant in African traditional medicine – Burkill, 1995
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants – Kigelia africana, 1999
- CRC Handbook of African Medicinal Plants – Van Wyk & Van Oudtshoorn, 1994