Can the Use of Impepho Leaves Extend beyond Traditional to Modern Medicine? An Opinion

Abstract

Impepho is an indigenous African herb well known to most people in South Africa, particularly Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal Provinces. The term “Impepho” is how the IsiXhosa speaking tribe from Eastern Cape called this herb while the IsiZulu’s from KwaZulu-Natal called it “Imphepho”. Despite documented uses for healing by traditional healers, especially in Africa, the healing abilities and mechanism of Impepho remain under-studied by science and medicine for modern drug development. There is a disconnection between medical scholars and traditional healers on how adequately and jointly to use this herb. We therefore urge researchers to work with traditional healers and medical professionals in South Africa and other African countries to carry out additional scientific studies on the Impepho herb.