Botanical Overview
Vangueria madagascariensis is a small tree or shrub belonging to the Rubiaceae family. Commonly known as Wild Medlar, Tengere, Spanish Tamarind, or African medlar, it is native to tropical Africa, Madagascar, and the Comoros Islands. Various parts are used medicinally including the fruit, leaves, roots, and bark.
Energetics
This plant is considered to have a neutral temperature with moistening moisture qualities. Its taste profile includes sweet, astringent, and acidic notes. It is thought to exhibit a descending directionality and tonifies qi within traditional systems.
Primary Actions
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Nutritive
- Astringent
Indications
Western
- Symptoms: diarrhea, dysentery, cough, skin infections, fever, inflammation
Syndromes
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Respiratory infections
- Dermatitis
TCM
Not documented.
Ayurveda
Not documented.
Unani
Not documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
This species contains phytochemical groups such as flavonoids, tannins, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, and terpenoids, which support its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion of leaves: 5-10 g in 250 mL water, 2-3 times daily
- Poultice of ground roots or bark applied topically
- Fruit consumed fresh as a nutritive food
Safety & Contraindications
The fruit and leaves are traditionally regarded as safe with no reports of severe toxicity. However, caution is advised during pregnancy due to insufficient clinical data on safety. Roots and bark medicinal use should be approached cautiously. There are no well-documented drug interactions though antimicrobial properties might influence other antimicrobial medications.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable information is available on planetary or elemental rulers for Vangueria madagascariensis.
Selected References
- Vangueria madagascariensis (Wild Medlar) – PROTA (2013)
- Phytochemical and pharmacological review of Vangueria madagascariensis – Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2015)
- Ethnomedicinal uses and pharmacological potential of the genus Vangueria – African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines (2014)