Regions: West Africa

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  • Pausinystalia johimbe

    Botanical Overview Pausinystalia johimbe, commonly known as Yohimbe or Johimbe, is a member of the Rubiaceae family native to Central and West Africa. The bark is the part traditionally used for medicinal purposes. Energetics This plant has warming and drying energetic qualities, characterized by a bitter taste. It is considered tonifying but directionality and qi/blood/fluid…


  • Annona muricata

    Botanical Overview Annona muricata, known commonly as soursop, graviola, guanabana, and Brazilian pawpaw, is a tropical plant in the Annonaceae family. Its parts used medicinally include the leaf, fruit, seed, stem, and root. It is native to the Caribbean, Central and South America, and cultivated in West Africa and Southeast Asia. Energetics This plant is…


  • Theobroma cacao

    Botanical Overview Theobroma cacao (Malvaceae) is a tropical tree native to Central and South America, widely cultivated for its seeds known as cacao beans or cocoa beans. The primary parts used medicinally are the seeds (semen) and their husks. Commonly referred to as cacao seed or cocoa bean, it is prized for its stimulant and…


  • Cryptolepis sanguinolenta

    Botanical Overview Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, commonly known as Nibima or Ghana quinine, belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to West and Tropical Africa. The root is the primary part used medicinally. Energetics This herb exhibits a cooling temperature and drying moisture quality with a bitter taste. It is generally relaxing in tonicity and influences…


  • Cola acuminata

    Botanical Overview Cola acuminata belongs to the Malvaceae family and is commonly known as Bitter kola or Cola nut. The plant is native to West and Tropical Africa. The primary part used medicinally is the seed or nut, which is traditionally chewed or prepared in various forms. Energetics The plant is considered warming and drying,…


  • Griffonia simplicifolia

    Botanical Overview Griffonia simplicifolia belongs to the Fabaceae family and is native to West and Central Africa. Commonly known as African black bean or Griffonia, its seeds are the primary part used medicinally. The seeds are valued for their high content of 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a precursor to serotonin. Energetics It is considered energetically neutral in…


  • Hibiscus sabdariffa

    Botanical Overview Hibiscus sabdariffa, commonly known as Roselle or Sour tea, is a member of the Malvaceae family. It is cultivated widely across tropical Asia, Africa, and parts of the Caribbean. The primary parts used medicinally are the calyces, leaves, and seeds, notable for their vibrant color and tart flavor. Energetics This plant is classified…