Wild Lettuce (Lactuca virosa) is a tall, leafy biennial plant belonging to the daisy family (Asteraceae). Often called “opium lettuce,” it is not related to narcotics but is valued for its mild sedative and medicinal properties. When cut, the plant exudes a milky latex known as “lactucarium,” traditionally used as a natural remedy for pain,…
Bush or Candle Plant (Senna alata), also called Ringworm Bush, is a perennial shrub native to the tropics and commonly found in West Africa, including Nigeria. It is easily recognised by its bright yellow, candle-like flower spikes that stand upright on the shrub, hence the name “Candle Plant.” The plant grows between 2–4 meters tall…
Girdle pod (Mitracarpus scaber) is a hardy annual herbaceous plant belonging to the Rubiaceae family. It grows naturally in tropical Africa, Central America, and parts of the Caribbean, but is widely found in Nigeria as both a wild weed and a medicinal plant. Despite its modest size, the Girdle pod has earned respect in traditional…
Wonder of the World, scientifically known as Bryophyllum pinnatum or Kalanchoe pinnata, is a succulent medicinal plant highly valued in Nigeria and many parts of the world for its healing properties. It belongs to the family Crassulaceae and is popularly known by various names such as “Never Die,” “Life Plant,” “Resurrection Plant,” or “Air Plant.” …
Stone breaker, scientifically known as Phyllanthus niruri and commonly referred to as “Small leaf,” is a small, leafy herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine. The plant is native to tropical regions, including Africa, Asia, and South America, and is well known for its ability to thrive in warm climates. They are…