25/06/2023
Wild Dagga Water Extraction: A Natural Remedy for Pain
By
Gabe Mittel
Wild dagga, also known as Leonotis leonurus, is a plant native to southern and eastern Africa. It is a well-known herb widely used to treat various ailments such as headaches, stress, anxiety, and chronic pain. The plant contains various phytochemicals and alkaloids, including leonurine, stachydrine, and hordenine, which are responsible for its medicinal properties.
Water extraction is one of the most popular methods of preparing wild dagga for medical purposes. This process involves boiling the plant in water and then straining the liquid to obtain a concentrated herbal extract. Here's how to make a wild dagga water extraction:
Step 1: Gather the Plant
Collect dried wild dagga flowers and leaves from a reliable source. Make sure the plant material is clean and free from any pesticides, chemicals, or contaminants. Wild dagga is legal in most countries and can be purchased online or in local herbal stores.
Step 2: Boil the Plant
Bring a pot of water to boil on your stove. Add the dried wild dagga to the boiling water and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure that the plant material is evenly distributed in the water.
Step 3: Strain the Liquid
After 30 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Using a sieve or cheesecloth, strain the liquid to remove the plant material. The resulting liquid should be greenish-brown in color and have a strong odor.
Step 4: Store the Extract
Pour the extract into a bottle or jar and store it in a cool, dark place. You can use the liquid immediately or keep it for up to two months. The water extraction process should give you a concentrated wild dagga extract, which can be used in various ways.
Possible Interactions and Side Effects
Wild dagga water extraction is generally considered safe when used as directed. However, individuals with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or diabetes should consult a healthcare provider before using this herb.
According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, wild dagga can interact with other medications such as sedatives, antidepressants, and antihistamines. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid using wild dagga if you are taking any of these medications.
In addition, wild dagga may cause side effects in some individuals such as dizziness, nausea, and dry mouth. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if you experience severe symptoms, it is recommended that you stop using the herb and seek medical attention.
Conclusion
Wild dagga water extraction is an effective natural remedy for pain that has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine. Its medicinal properties have been attributed to various phytochemicals and alkaloids found in the plant. This method of preparation is easy and can be done at home with minimal equipment. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using this herb, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking medications.
References:
1. De Wet, H., & Van Wyk, B. (2008). A review of the taxonomy, ethnobotany, chemistry and pharmacology of Leonotis leonurus (L.) R. Br. (Lamiaceae). Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 119(3), 542-549. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2008.07.005
2. Wabe, N. T. (2011). Chemistry, pharmacology, and medicinal property of Leonotis leonurus: A Review. Phytotherapy Research, 25(4), 495-502. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3274
3. Ernst, E. (2003). Complementary and alternative medicine - A critical appraisal. International Journal of Surgery, 1(2), 75-77. doi: 10.1016/s1743-9191(03)00037-7
4. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2020). Wild dagga. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/wild-dagga
5. Chen, J. L., & Yu, Y. (2010). Potential herb-drug interactions with commonly used traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 50(8), 791-801. doi: 10.1177/0091270009359857