Wild dagga (Leonotis leonurus), also known as Lion’s tail, is a large broadleaf evergreen shrub belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). Native to South Africa, this robust plant can reach heights of 2-3m and a 1.5 wide.
The roots are used to treat stings and bites, including snake bites. External mixtures are applied to remedy boils, itches and other skin complaints, as well as muscular cramps. Wild dagga mixtures are also consumed to help high blood pressure, jaundice, hemorrhoids, dysentery, fever, headaches, influenza, asthma and coughs. Leaves are also smoked to help treat epilepsy and partial paralysis.
Calming and sedating sensations are felt when the flowers are consumed as a tea, while euphoric reactions occur when the flowers are smoked. South African tribes have traditionally smoked wild dagga flowers and leaves for its euphoric effect. The Wild dagga flowers can be brewed into a tea and consumed to experience the plants relaxing and soothing effects.
