South African Herbs Used for Cancer Therapy in Rural Areas

Abstract

South Africa is a rich country in topography and herbs used by traditional healers for the treatment of many infections. Many African ethnic groups use different herbs that are used based on their forebears’ cultures and customs. Most of these plants grow none domestically and are harvested by these traditional healers and treat their patients according to their spiritual revelations and indigenous knowledge. In this chapter herbs will be grouped and comprehensibly discussed on how each tribe uses it according to their diverse cultures, customs, and beliefs. The chapter will also tap into the scientific discovery to document their toxicity for safety. Then a conclusion will be drawn combining the indigenous knowledge, culture, and scientific discovery to guide reader for potential plants.