Cape jackalskos

Hydnora africana

Hydnora africana is a parasitic plant found in eastern and southern Africa, particularly in the Elgon sub-region of Uganda. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively documented; however, it was among the ten most commonly used plants for cancer treatment in this area. Scientifically, Hydnora africana root extracts have shown variable antibacterial activity and moderate antioxidant properties, with some evidence suggesting potential against multidrug-resistant enteropathogens. While promising, these findings are based on limited research, and further investigation is needed to confirm its medicinal benefits. Safety concerns appear minimal, with no major issues recorded. There are also no known drug interactions associated with Hydnora africana.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Hydnora africana was among the ten most commonly used plants for cancer treatment in the Elgon sub-region of Uganda. D PMID
  • Hydnora africana root extracts showed variable antibacterial activity and moderate antioxidant properties. D PMID
  • Most tested extracts showed antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant enteropathogens, with varying effectiveness. D PMID
  • Hydnora species, particularly H. abyssinica and H. africana, show potential medicinal properties but require further research due to limited documented traditional uses and scientific studies. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Cape jackalskos?

Cape jackalskos (Hydnora africana) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Cape jackalskos?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Cape jackalskos; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Hydnora africana was among the ten most commonly used plants for cancer treatment in the Elgon sub-region of Uganda.

How strong is the evidence for Cape jackalskos?

The strongest finding for Cape jackalskos carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Cape jackalskos safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Cape jackalskos in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Cape jackalskos interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Cape jackalskos in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Cape jackalskos?

Cape jackalskos is also known as: Гиднора африканская, Hydnore d'Afrique.

Is Cape jackalskos a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 The antibacterial, phytochemicals and antioxidants evaluation of the root extracts of Hydnora africanaThunb. used as antidysenteric in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Antibacterial activity of crude extracts of some South African medicinal plants against multidrug resistant etiological agents of diarrhoea. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Understanding the Ethnobotany, Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Distribution of Genus Hydnora (Aristolochiaceae). literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Medicinal plants used in the management of cancers by residents in the Elgon Sub-Region, Uganda. literature abstract metadata