Pelargonium

Pelargonium sidoides

Botanical family: Geraniaceae
Parts used: Roots
Actions: Anti-microbial, anti-viral, immune boosting
Main active constituents: Coumarins, polyphenols, flavonoids, calcium, silica
Good for: Colds, sore throats, coughs and blocked or runny noses
Available Forms: Tablet, liquid

Description

A member of the geranium family, pelargonium is native to South Africa and grows throughout the Eastern Cape. The long-stalked leaves of this rosette-like plant are mildly aromatic, heart-shaped and velvety. Its distinctive dark, reddish-purple flowers are present throughout the year, but occur mostly from late spring to summer with a peak in mid-summer.

History

Pelargonium has long been used by Zulu tribes for a variety of ills. It first made its appearance in the UK in the 1920s when an Englishman Charles Stevens who was suffering from tuberculosis made a trip to South Africa in search of a cure. He returned home fully recovered after taking pelargonium.

Current uses

For treating symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections

Extracts of pelargonium have recently been attracting interest as a natural alternative to antibiotics for treating symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, such as colds, coughs, sore throats, sinusitis as well as for helping to prevent secondary infections such as bronchitis.

Research shows that the anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties of pelargonium help to prevent bacteria and viruses from attaching themselves to cells in the mucous membranes as well as stimulating the immune system to stop viruses and bacteria from multiplying. Extracts of pelargonium can also act as an expectorant allowing the body to expel infected mucus, which makes conditions less suitable for bacteria and viruses to multiply.

How to take it

• At the first sign of symptoms take 30 drops three times a day.
• You should carry on taking pelargonium for three days after symptoms have disappeared to protect against a relapse.
• Pelargonium should not be taken for longer than two weeks.

Watchpoints

• Do not take if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
• Pelargonium can be taken with other supplements and there is no evidence that it interacts with prescribed medications at the recommended dosage although it should not be taken with warfarin.

Pelargonium can be found in Kaloba.