Introduction

Myrothamnus flabellifolia is the most fascinating of all known plants. It is a woody shrub with very tough stems, which stand no more than 30 - 50cm high and is found in Southern Africa. For the greater part of the year, it appears more like an upright bundle of dead brownish sticks with dead leaves. When the rains come, the apparently dead leaves quickly come back to life, becoming green within a few hours of the roots receiving water. Consequently local tribal communities in different parts of Southern Africa, have given it names that resonate with its ability to resurrect. Resultantly, the plant is known in English as the resurrection bush. Myrothamnus flabellifolia grows only in shallow soil over rock cracks and rocky hillsides. It can survive in extremely hot climates, where few other plants can survive. The plant has numerous health and nutritional benefits. Here are the top six reasons why you should be including dietary supplements with Myrothamnus flabellifolia as part of your regular diet.

1.   Myrothamnus flabellifolia can delay the aging process of the human skin

Several research studies have established that the plant possesses a combination of essential oils, mainly camphor and eucalyptol, which gives it the ability to preserve its cells during the dry seasons of the year. Consequently, extracts of these oils have anti-ageing properties and can be used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes to prolong the skin aging process.

2.   Myrothamnus flabellifolia is effective at preventing and fighting a variety of ailments

Myrothamnus flabellifolia is laden with antioxidants and essential minerals and oils which include the carbohydrate trehalose, the glycoside arbutin and various tannins and flavonoids. These can be used to treat a variety of ailments including asthma, colds, coughs, influenza, mastitis, backache, kidney disorders, hemorrhoids, abdominal pains, scurvy, menstrual pain, chest pains, halitosis and gingivitis. The magnesium and potassium in Myrothamnus flabellifolia are electrolytes which conduct electricity in the body and prevent muscle spasms. It therefore, helps prevent muscle cramping.

3.   Myrothamnus flabellifolia holds potential for the treatment of breast cancer

Research has shown that Myrothamnus flabellifolia possesses a compound which is a derivative of galloyl glucose hexahydroxydiphenic acid. This compound is capable of specifically targeting the cells that cause Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC), which is one of the most difficult variants of breast cancer to treat. Myrothamnus flabellifolia holds a lot of potential as a non-toxic alternative treatment method for TNBC which can replace the current toxic chemotherapeutic practices. There is however, need for further research before Myrothamnus flabellifolia can be adopted as a possible treatment regime for TNBC. 

4.   Myrothamnus flabellifolia is an immune booster that promotes the general well-being of the body

The anti-oxidants and essential minerals found in Myrothamnus flabellifolia have properties that can boost the immune system, build stamina, calm inflammation and help to relieve symptoms of depression. It also helps to regulate blood pressure.

5.   Myrothamnus flabellifolia possesses healing properties

Dried powdered leaves of the plant can be used topically to treat abrasions and for dressing burns and wounds resulting from cuts, scratches and scrapes. Smoke from the leaves can be directed into the vagina for pain in the uterus.

6.   Myrothamnus flabellifolia is a super food

Myrothamnus flabellifolia tea is so soothing and refreshing, and is caffeine free. It helps your body hold on to water, so you stay hydrated whilst boosting your energy levels. It is therefore a tremendous energy booster, especially for those who suffer from fatigue and low energy. The leaves and stems of the plant can be crushed into a powder that can be added to tea to flavour it, and are also used as a spice. To enjoy Myrothamnus flabellifolia in tea, put 1 teaspoonful of a mixture of crushed Myrothamnus flabellifolia leaves and stems into a cup of tea. Pour fiercely boiling water into the cup and brew for 3 to 5 minutes. You can take the tea without adding any sweetener, or alternatively you can add a little honey, depending on your taste preferences.

Myrothamnus flabellifolia is indeed densely packed with anti-oxidants and essential minerals and oils which are not only used to treat severe depression, but also medicinally used to cure a wide variety of ailments. You really stand to benefit by taking the next step and start including Myrothamnus flabellifolia products as part of your diet and cosmetic chest.Please note that whilst they have excellent nutritional and health benefits, nutraceuticals  should not be used as an alternative to proper medical attention. You still need to consult your doctor when using them to fend-off or manage any ailment.

Bibliography

Brar, J., Fultang, N., Askey, K., Tettamanzi, M. C., & Peethambaran, B. (2018). A novel anti-triple negative breast cancer compound isolated from medicinal herb Myrothamnus flabellifolius. Journal of Medicinal Plats Research, 12(1), 7-14.

Kamng’ona, A., Moore, J. P., Lindsey, G., & Brandt, W. (2011). Inhibition of HIV-1 and M-MLV reverse transcriptases by a major polyphenol (3,4,5 tri-O-galloylquinic acid) present in the leaves of the South African resurrection plant, Myrothamnus flabellifolia. Journal of Enzyme Inhibition and Medicinal Chemistry, 26(6), 843-853.

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