Agathosma (Agathosma betulina)

Agathosma (Agathosma betulina) is a member of the Asteraceae family, native to South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. Traditionally, its leaves, resin, and bark have been used for infusions, decoctions, and poultices.

This herb is particularly valued for its tonic, bitter, and anti-inflammatory actions, and has a long history of use in african traditional medicine, european herbal medicine, and mediterranean herbal traditions.

Agathosma (Agathosma betulina) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Agathosma (Agathosma betulina) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Agathosma
Scientific Name	Agathosma betulina
Plant Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Agathosma
Species	betulina
Native Range	South Africa, Namibia, Botswana
Plant Parts Used	Leaves, Resin, Bark
Primary Medicinal Actions	Tonic, Bitter, Anti-Inflammatory
Primary Traditional Systems	African Traditional Medicine, European Herbal Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions
Historical Preparation Methods	Infusion, Decoction, Poultice

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Agathosma betulina
Common Name: Agathosma
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Agathosma Betulina, Bushman'S Tea, Wild Bergamot
Plant Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Agathosma

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically reaches a height of 0.3 to 1.5 meters.
Leaves: Opposite, narrowly elliptic leaves with dark green upper surfaces and lighter green lower surfaces, featuring prominent stomatal bands along the midrib.
Stems: Terrestrial, erect growth habit, opposite branching pattern, glabrous surface, nodes with slightly swollen bases, internodes with distinct ridges.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

African Traditional Medicine
European Herbal Medicine
Mediterranean Herbal Traditions

Historical Preparation Methods

Infusion
Decoction
Poultice
Oil Infusion

Medicinal Actions

Tonic: In herbal literature, noted as a warming tonic, for broad-use formulations.
Bitter: Commonly referenced as a mild bitter, in bitter herb groupings.
Anti-inflammatory: Traditionally described as a moderate anti-inflammatory, for irritation-related applications.
Carminative: Historically regarded as a gentle carminative, in stomach-related herbal uses.

Active Compounds

Essential Oil: A collective term for aromatic compounds extracted from plant material.
Terpenoid: A large class of naturally occurring compounds derived from isoprene units.
Flavonoid: A widely occurring class of plant polyphenols found in leaves, flowers, and fruits.
Phenolic Acid: A class of aromatic plant compounds commonly found in leaves, seeds, and stems.

Modern Research Overview

Scientific literature concerning this plant spans multiple areas, including phytochemistry and laboratory research. Detailed analysis of published studies is not included at this time and will be added as part of future editorial expansion.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: The use of this herb may warrant general caution in certain situations.
Contraindications: There is insufficient evidence to determine specific contraindications related to this herb.
Allergies: Reports of allergic reactions to this herb are not well documented in available sources.
Drug Interactions: Interactions with prescription medications have not been well documented.
Toxicity: Available information regarding the toxicity of this herb is limited.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been clearly established in available sources.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Plant material is steeped in hot water to extract water-soluble compounds.
Decoction: Plant material is simmered in water to extract compounds from tougher parts.
Poultice: Fresh or dried plant material is applied externally to the skin.
Capsule: Capsules contain measured amounts of dried, ground plant material.
Extract: Non-alcoholic extracts provide a liquid form of plant constituents.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.