Strophanthus is a genus of climbing plants that includes 38 species, with over 30 species found in continental Africa, 7 species in Asia, ranging from India to Southeast Asia, and 1 species native to Madagascar. Some of the most well-known species are Strophanthus gratus, Strophanthus kombe, and Strophanthus hispidus.The seeds of various Strophanthus species contain a high concentration of the alkaloid strophanthin, which, in the right dosage, can serve as a valuable cardiac medication.What secrets does this exotic plant hold? Read on to find out!
Strophanthus Gratus – Meaning of the Name and Characteristics
The name Strophanthus consists of two words derived from Greek: "stophe" (meaning twist) and "anthos" (meaning flower), referring to the twisted tips of the flower petals.The word "Gratus" comes from Latin and means graceful or pleasant.
Strophanthus is the name of a genus of tropical plants, characterized by the presence of a highly toxic compound in its seeds. Strophanthin is a glycoside that is found applicable in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, significantly reducing the risk of heart failure. G-Strophanthin (ouabaine) is derived from the Strophanthus gratus plant .
The Strophanthus gratus is a climbing shrub, with its stems reaching up to 25 meters in length. It can climb trees like a liana, allowing it to grow all the way to the tree canopy.The stems and branches have white fissures on the bark, while the olive-green leaves are elliptical in shape with a distinct venation pattern.Its trumpet-shaped, strikingly beautiful flowers vary in color from white to purple, often with a deep pink hue.The seeds of Strophanthus gratus measure 11 to 19 mm in length, have a spindle-like shape, and range in color from yellow to yellow-brown.
Strophanthus Gratus – Cultivation
Strophanthus gratus originates from warm African regions (Cameroon, Gabon, Nigeria, Sierra Leone) and is cultivated in many countries on partially shaded, fertile, and humus-rich soils that are simultaneously moist but well-drained.
It can be found at forest edges, along riverbanks, most commonly in areas located at elevations of up to 650 meters above sea level. It easily grows from seeds, which are sown at the beginning of the rainy season. Its growth rate depends on its establishment. Young plants grow very slowly, especially during the first three years after planting. After this period, the growth rate increases, and the shrub itself can continue growing for up to fifty years.
Properties and Applications
Compounds derived from *Strophanthus gratus* have found a wide range of applications, primarily in the treatment of various ailments and diseases. However, African tribes have also been using its seeds for centuries to poison arrowheads for hunting.
In Europe, the plant is best known as a cardiac glycoside in the form of g-strophanthin (ouabain), which is obtained from its seeds, stems, and leaves. The early 20th century was a period of great popularity for strophanthin in the medical community, with its discovery being compared to the invention of insulin or penicillin. From the 1930s to the late 1980s, it was the drug of choice for treating heart diseases, particularly in Germany.
Strophanthin derived from Strophanthus gratus strengthens the heartbeat and normalizes heart rhythm, helps lower blood pressure, dilates coronary vessels, and prevents cell damage in the event of a heart attack.
Mature, dried seeds of Strophanthus gratus, cleaned of their spike-like protrusions, are used as a raw material for the production of homeopathic medicines. These are primarily used for treating heart failure, tachycardia, angina pectoris, and anxiety states accompanied by neuralgic pain in the heart area.
In African countries, compounds from Strophanthus gratus have been used for somewhat different medicinal purposes. For example, a decoction made from its roots or leaves is used to treat rheumatism, an enema prepared from the roots is used for venereal diseases, and a locally applied ointment made from crushed Strophanthus root mixed with oil is used to treat scabies.
Among other diseases and ailments treated with Strophanthus gratus, one can include ulcers, parasitic infections, abrasions, food poisoning, fever, sexually transmitted diseases, and dysentery. In some African countries, it is also used as an antidote for snake venom, an aphrodisiac, and even a talisman for protection against evil spells.
Sources:
- Ewa Jaźwińska-Tarnawska, Katedra i Zakład Farmakologii Klinicznej, Leki stosowane w chorobach układu krążenia
- https://plants.jstor.org/stable/10.5555/al.ap.upwta.1_397www.plants.jstor.org
- www.herzinfarkt-alternativen.de/strophanthin-eine-reise-in-eine-unbekannte-welt
- https://www.pascoe.de/wirkstoffe/detail/strophanthus-gelbe-strophantus-samen.htmlwww.pascoe.de
- Dr. J. Wilkens- Natur und Medizin (Dr. Veronica Carstens Stiftung)/ Beilage Kompass Komplemetnärmedizin KOKO September 2021
Disclaimer:
The content in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. The purpose of the material is to increase awareness of the substance discussed, and not to promote any specific product. The information presented in the text is based on available scientific research and does not constitute medical advice. It should also not be considered an encouragement to self-diagnose or treat any ailments. In case of any health problems or concerns, it is recommended to consult a doctor or other qualified specialist.
