EYEDWARHA – AFRICAN DAISY IS A NEGLECTED UNDERUTILISED PLANT

October is eyeDwarha in isiXhosa, named for the African daisy, also known as Osteospermum or Dimorphotheca. It confirms iNtlakohlaza, iNtwasahlobo, full Spring season. This African beauty, ‘Daisy,’ has long-lasting blooms which come in a variety of colours – yellow, pink, red, white and orange. In the western culture, daisies are favourites for bouquets and floral arrangements. Greenery and bright flowers impact our health by reducing stress and helping us find peace of mind - a healing effect on those who receive them, including reduced feelings of agitation, anxiety and depression (https://www.psychreg.org/topic/leisure-lifestyle/).   

African daisies have been used in the Xhosa and Khoi-San traditional medicine for centuries. Some of the common medicinal applications include:

• Skin conditions: The plant is used to treat skin ailments such as eczema and psoriasis.
• Digestive issues: Herbal teas made from the leaves and stems are used to alleviate stomach problems.
• Respiratory problems: The flowers are used in traditional remedies for headaches and respiratory issues.

These uses highlight the plant’s versatility and importance in both horticulture and traditional medicine. The global traditional medicine market is significant and growing. As of 2023, it is valued at approximately $174.89 billion and is expected to reach $289.66 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5%. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also emphasized the importance of actively integrating traditional medicine with modern healthcare practices. The global floral industry is estimated to be worth approximately $104.8 billion. This industry encompasses a wide range of activities, including the cultivation, distribution, and sale of flowers and plants, both fresh and artificial. WSU is re-establishing a research site at Dwesa Nature Reserve where research-led community engagement will take place. Education is the birthright. Let us not neglect indigenous knowledge.

By  Professor Albert Thembinkosi Modi, Executive Dean, Natural Sciences, WSU