Botanical Overview
Schkuhria pinnata belongs to the Asteraceae family and is commonly known as Dwarf marigold or Schkuhria weed. It is a herbaceous plant used traditionally in Southern Africa, Mexico, and South America. The parts used medicinally are primarily the whole plant or aerial parts.
Energetics
This herb is considered cooling and drying with a bitter and acrid taste. It is tonifying in nature with no clearly established directionality or qi/blood/fluid properties documented in traditional energetic systems.
Primary Actions
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Anthelmintic
- Wound healing
Indications
Western
- Wounds
- Skin infections
- Cough
- Fever
- Gastrointestinal parasites
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Respiratory tract infections
- Parasitic infestations
- Inflammatory conditions
- Dermatological disorders
TCM
Not documented
Ayurveda
Not documented
Unani
Not documented
Constituents & Mechanisms
Containing flavonoids, essential oils, sesquiterpene lactones, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and tannins, Schkuhria pinnata exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects that contribute to its traditional uses.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of aerial parts used topically for wound healing
- Infusion of leaves used for respiratory ailments
- Poultice applied for skin infections
Safety & Contraindications
Traditional use suggests general safety, but detailed toxicological information is lacking. Use with caution during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. No significant drug interactions are known.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers documented.
Selected References
- Ethnobotanical study and antioxidant activity of Schkuhria pinnata (Lam.) Thell.
- Phytochemical and pharmacological review of Schkuhria pinnata – A valuable medicinal plant
- Schkuhria pinnata (Lam.) Thell., distribution and uses (Plants of the World Online)
- Traditional uses and safety profile of Schkuhria pinnata (Medicinal Plants of South Africa)