Botanical Overview
Grewia tenax belongs to the Tiliaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. This species belongs to the Tiliaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
General Description
It is native to Africa, from the Sahara to Tanzania and parts of southern Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and on to the Indian subcontinent. The ripe fruit is edible and is consumed by local peoples either fresh, dried, or powered in drinks.
Family Context
The Tiliaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Jew’s Mallow — 10 documented uses
- Grewia asiatica — 9 documented uses
- Cereso — 5 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Grewia tenax has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, India, Kenya, Namibia, and others.
Traditional Uses
Grewia tenax has been traditionally used for respiratory conditions and pain and inflammation.
Respiratory conditions.
- Cough
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Pain and inflammation.
- Anodyne
For pain and inflammation, preparations are applied both topically as compresses and taken internally. A warm poultice draws blood to the area and promotes healing, while internal preparations address systemic inflammation.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 1 compound in this species: betulin.