Recorded medicinal uses
The Helichrysum plants are widely used in East and West Africa by Europeans and ethnic groups alike.
The leaf of Helichrysum is a Zulu love philtre. As a result the desired lady finds the man irresistible. The dried leaf is used to make an ointment, which is applied to the body.
Although no information is available in literature, the Shangaan use the leaf of the Helichrysum to boost women's libido.
A decoction of the root of Helichrysum psilolepis Harv. is a Southern Sotho remedy for painful menstruation.
A decoction of the root of Helichrysum platypterum DC. is drunk by the Southern Sotho to renew virility.
In Angola, the aromatic fruiting head of the Helichrysum benguellense Hiern is used for cosmetic purposes.
Helichrysum crispum Less. is used in the Western Cape for heart trouble and for backache and kidney disease. The Europeans also use it as a remedy for "heart weakness" in man and animal. An infusion has a reputation in the treatment of hyperpiesia, coronary thrombosis and of bladder conditions.
The root of Helichrysum gerberaefolium Sch. Bip. ex A. Rich. is used in East Africa for coughs and colds and the leaf as a wound dressing. Both root and leaf are said to contain Helichrysum.
Helichrysum nudifolium Less. var. quinquenerve Moes. has been used as a tea that has a "green" insipid flavour. Tests have shown that the plant is non-toxic, contains neither alkaloid nor glucoside, and yields a trace of tannins and 0.036 per cent of a pungent volatile oil.
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