Using the South African Geranium to Treat Respiratory Conditions and Tonsillitis

The South African geranium (Pelargonium sidoides) is a member of the family of plants known as scented geraniums. Geraniums are frequently grown in containers for their lovely flowers. The flowers and leaves are often used for their scent to make sachets and potpourris. Not much is made of the scented geranium's medicinal qualities; however, the South African geranium has been used for centuries by indigenous tribes in Southern Africa to treat various respiratory infections. Modern studies have shown that this particular member of the geranium family does indeed offer relief to those suffering from colds, bronchitis, and even tonsillitis.

This South African pelargonium looks very similar to the various scented geraniums with which most of us are familiar. It has the familiar velvety heart-shaped leaves, which also have a mild scent. It is probably lower-growing than its cousins -- growing to be only 6-12 inches tall. The flowers are a deep reddish-purple, almost black. It can be grown just as you would any other geranium, too.

The juice from the root of the South African geranium carries immune-stimulating properties and encourages the production of interferon, a substance that helps to protect cells from infection. Several studies have shown that bronchitis that develops following a severe cold can be effectively treated with 30 drops of South African geranium juice given three times a day for seven days. If you want to avoid having a cold turn into bronchitis, you should follow this same schedule. Studies have shown that when 30 drops of the South African geranium are taken three times a day for about ten days, cold symptoms were much less severe.

As previously mentioned, the South African geranium has also been used to treat the symptoms of tonsillitis. In the Ukraine, for example, children that were given 20 drops of the juice twice a day showed reduced symptoms in just six days.

While you may want to grow your own South African geraniums, do so just for aesthetics. For medicinal purposes, I highly recommend that you visit a certified herbalist or your local health food store. By doing so, you will make sure that you are getting the correct strength. Although there are generally no serious side effects, you should always consult a certified herbalist and/or your primary care physician if you have any concerns. Some people may experience some stomach upset, while others may have some type of allergic reaction. Do not take this herb if you have kidney or liver disease or if you are pregnant or nursing. Do not give to children under the age of two. Consult your herbalist for the amount that needs to be given to young children. People over the age of 65 can start with a low dose.

References:

Castleman, Michael. The New Healing Herbs. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Inc., 2009.

Kruger, Anna. An Illustrated Guide to Herbs, Their Medicine and Magic. Surrey, Great Britain: Dragon's World Ltd., 1993.