Botanical Overview
Uvaria chamae (family Annonaceae), commonly known as Bush Banana or Finger root, is native to West and Central Tropical Africa. The root, stem bark, and leaves are traditionally utilized in folk medicine.
Energetics
Uvaria chamae is considered warming and drying in nature. It carries bitter and astringent tastes and is tonifying to the qi.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Anthelmintic
- Analgesic
- Antioxidant
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Fever
- Malaria
- Dysentery
- Skin infections
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Helminthic infections
Syndromes
- Respiratory infections
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Febrile conditions
- Parasitic infestations
TCM
No documented traditional Chinese medicine uses.
Ayurveda
No documented Ayurvedic uses.
Unani
No documented Unani uses.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Contains flavonoids, alkaloids, essential oils, terpenoids, phenols, and lignans contributing to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of roots or stem bark: 20-40 g in 250 mL water, taken 2-3 times daily
- Powdered root: 1-3 g daily
- Topical application of crushed leaves or bark for skin infections
Safety & Contraindications
Traditionally considered safe at normal doses. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Excessive dosing may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. No known significant drug interactions reported.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable information on planetary or elemental rulers was found.
Selected References
- Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties of Uvaria chamae, Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2011
- Medicinal Plants of Tropical Africa, J. Burkill, 1985
- Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Activities of Uvaria chamae Extracts, Phytotherapy Research, 2013