Ziziphus mucronata Willd
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Scientific Classification:
Synonyms: · Ziziphus madecassus H.Perrier
Species ID: NMP-221;wfo-0000430319;NCBI_Taxonomy ID: 345811 Common Names:
English
buffalo thorn; Cape Thorn. French jujubier glabre (Roberty): jujubier de la
hyène (‘hyena’s jujube’, Berhaut); jujubier toxique (‘poisonous jujube’,
Roberty), jujubier á griffes, (Bailleul). SENEGAL: BASARI a-nginginô (after
K&A) BEDIK ga-ngέngὲ (FG&G) FULA-PULAAR (Senegal) dabi fauru = jujube
of the hyena (auctt.) dabi foru (K&A) dabi gulbey (JMD) TUKULOR dabi fauru
(Aub.; K&A) dabi foru (K&A) dabi gulbey (K&A) gulumavi (JLT) Local Names: Ziziphus mucronata is
commonly known as "Kurna" in Hausa and "Ila" in Yoruba. Description: Ziziphus mucronata is a
small to medium-sized tree, reaching heights of up to 17 meters. It features
distinctive zigzag branchlets armed with pairs of thorns—one hooked and the
other straight. The bark is red-brown on young stems, becoming rough and dark
grey or brown with age. The leaves are shiny, light green, and the tree
produces greenish-yellow flowers from October to April, followed by deep
brown-red fruits from February to August. Distribution and Habitat: This species is native to southern
Africa, occurring in various habitats, mostly open woodlands, often on soils
deposited by rivers, and frequently on termite mounds. It is adaptable to a
variety of soil types and environmental conditions. Medicinal Properties: Ziziphus mucronata is
utilized in traditional medicine for various ailments. A blend made from the
roots is used as a painkiller and for dysentery, while the bark and leaves are
used for respiratory ailments and skin infections. A paste made from the roots
and leaves is applied to treat boils, sores, and swelling. Crushed leaves can
be used to stop bleeding, and steam baths from the bark are used to purify and
improve complexion. Known Toxicity: There is limited information
regarding the toxicity of Ziziphus mucronata. While it is used in
traditional medicine, caution is advised, and further research is necessary to
fully understand its safety profile. Additional Information: The buffalo thorn holds cultural
significance in various African communities. In Zulu culture, it is planted on
the graves of deceased chiefs as a reminder of their burial site. Branches are
also used to retrieve the spirit of a deceased person from the place of death
to their homestead. The tree is believed to offer protection against lightning
and is used as a shelter during storms. References:
External links
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| Compounds of Ziziphus mucronata Willd | |
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