Regions: Horn of Africa

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  • Catha edulis

    Botanical Overview Catha edulis (family Celastraceae), commonly known as Khat, Qat, Arabian tea, Mirra, or Miraa, is a flowering shrub native to the Horn of Africa and Arabian Peninsula regions, as well as East Africa. The fresh leaves and twigs are traditionally used for their stimulant properties. Energetics The plant is considered warming and drying,…


  • Boswellia sacra

    Botanical Overview Boswellia sacra (family Burseraceae) is a resinous tree native to the Arabian Peninsula, Horn of Africa, and surrounding regions including Somalia, Oman, Yemen, and Ethiopia. Its aromatic resin, commonly known as frankincense or olibanum, is the primary part used medicinally. The resin is harvested by making incisions in the bark and collecting the…


  • Ziziphus spina-christi

    Botanical Overview Ziziphus spina-christi (Rhamnaceae) is commonly known as Christ’s Thorn Jujube, Nabq, Jerusalem Thorn, and Sidr. The plant is native to North Africa, the Middle East, the Horn of Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. Commonly used parts include the bark, fruit, leaf, and root. Energetics Ziziphus spina-christi is characterized by cooling temperature and moistening…


  • Commiphora kataf

    Botanical Overview Commiphora kataf is a resin-producing shrub or small tree of the Burseraceae family, native to Northeast Africa, the Horn of Africa, the Middle East, and the Arabian Peninsula. Commonly known as Rotten Gum or Kataf Myrrh, the plant’s resin and bark are traditionally used medicinally. Energetics The plant is considered warming and drying…