Health Benefits of Umckaloabo
Health Benefits of Umckaloabo
Umckaloabo, (Pelargonium sidoides) also known as South African Geranium, or Umcka is an herb native to South Africa. Umckaloabo emerged in the UK at the end of the 19th century as a patent medicine to help treat tuberculosis by Charles Henry Stevens also known as Steven’s cure but fell out of favor once antibiotics were developed in the mid 1900s. Umckaloabo has been traditionally used to treat bronchitis, asthma, fatigue, general sickness, and menstrual disorders.
Umckaloabo has antimicrobial properties. Researchers believe that Umckaloabo prevents or kill bacteria from attaching to surfaces within the body. Umckaloabo may also increase the body’s normal response to infection.
Today, Umckaloabo is commonly used to treat upper respiratory infections including, bronchitis sore throat, tonsillitis, COPD and the common cold. Studies have shown that adults and children with bronchitis who consumed Umckaloabo extract showed that within 48hours of feeling sick had fewer symptoms after 7 days of treatment.
Other studies have shown that Umckaloabo had significantly reduced pain and difficulty swallowing after 4 days of treatment in children who had a sore throat and swollen tonsils.
Umckaloabo may also help treat dysentery and or diarrhea but more research is needed.
Umckaloabo may interact with certain medications.
As always, consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3183890/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/umckaloabo
https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/umckaloabo.htm
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1135/pelargonium-sidoides
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/pelargonium-sidoides
https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-pelargonium-89023