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 the qi system.
Primary Actions
- Antimalarial
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antipyretic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiplasmodial
- Sedative
Indications
Western
- Fever
- Symptoms of malaria
- Bacterial infections
- Fungal infections
- Inflammatory conditions
- Nervous agitation
Syndromes
- Malaria
- Febrile illnesses
- Bacterial infections
- Fungal infections
- Inflammatory disorders
- Anxiety
TCM
Not established
Ayurveda
Not established
Unani
Not established
Constituents & Mechanisms
Main phytochemicals include cryptolepine and other indoloquinoline alkaloids, as well as flavonoids responsible for its antimicrobial and antimalarial activity.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of root 2-4 g, 2-3 times daily
- Ethanolic root extract standardized to cryptolepine 250-500 mg daily
- Tincture 1:5 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use cautiously during pregnancy and avoid in liver disease due to potential hepatotoxicity. Interactions may occur with sedative and antimalarial medications. Lactation safety is unestablished.
Astrological Correspondences
Not established due to lack of reliable traditional sources.
Selected References
- Phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta – a review (Gbaguidi et al., 2018)
- African Herbal Pharmacopeia (2001)
- Cryptolepis sanguinolenta as an antimalarial (WHO, 2002)