Botanical Overview
Lion’s Ear (Leonotis leonurus) belongs to the Lamiaceae family. While not among the most extensively documented medicinal plants, this species has recorded uses that warrant attention from researchers and practitioners. The mint family (Lamiaceae) includes aromatic herbs and shrubs with square stems, opposite leaves, and two-lipped flowers. Many species produce essential oils in glandular trichomes on their leaves and stems. This family is one of the most important sources of culinary and medicinal herbs worldwide.
General Description
It is a broadleaf evergreen shrub, native to South Africa, where it is very common, with a wide altitudinal range from 5 m up to 1980 m. It is known to have medicinal and sedating properties. The main psychoactive component of Leonotis leonurus is hypothesized to be either leonurine or a mixture of labdane-type compounds; Leonotis leonurus has been confirmed to contain leonurine according to peer reviewed journal published phytochemical analysis. Like other plants in the mint family, it also contains marrubin. The word “dagga” comes from Afrikaans, and derives in turn from the Khoikhoi “dachab”. The word “dagga” has been extended to include the genus Cannabis in Afrikaans and South African English, so the use of “wild” serves to distinguish Leonotis from Cannabis.
Family Context
The Lamiaceae family is large and widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Basil — 86 documented uses
- Rosemary — 60 documented uses
- Agbo — 54 documented uses
- Sage — 49 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Lion’s Ear has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Australia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Spain, and others.
Traditional Uses
Lion’s Ear has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and skin and wound care, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Purgative
- Vermifuge
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Respiratory conditions.
- Cold
- 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.
Skin and wound care.
- Skin
For skin conditions, the fresh or dried plant is applied topically as a poultice, wash, or compress. A strong decoction can be used to clean wounds and sores. The antimicrobial properties help prevent infection while promoting tissue repair.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities