“Hospital Too Far”: The Jatropha Tanjorensis Plant for Malaria and Diabetes Treatment

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• Jatropha tanjorensis medicinal uses
• Traditional remedies for malaria and diabetes
• Health benefits of “Hospital Too Far” plant

BY SHEKWOPEYELO

In Nigeria, the Jatropha tanjorensis plant, colloquially known as “Hospital Too Far,” is gaining recognition for its medicinal properties. This flowery plant, often found in gardens and backyards, has been traditionally used to treat malaria, diabetes, and other ailments.

During the rainy season, when diseases like malaria and typhoid fever peak due to mosquito bites and consistent rain exposure, Jatropha tanjorensis offers a natural remedy. Its leaves are known for their hematological, antimalarial, antimicrobial, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and antihypertensive activities.

Malaria and Diabetes Treatment: The leaves can be boiled for about five minutes and consumed hot to treat malaria. Adding lemon grass enhances its effectiveness. For diabetes management, its anti-hyperglycemic properties make it a valuable treatment option.

Additional Uses: Besides its use in soups like okra soup, Jatropha tanjorensis is beneficial for pregnant women and those with reproductive issues. Drinking a tea made from its leaves is believed to support reproductive health. The plant also helps increase blood volume and has traditional uses in treating dysentery and diarrhea.

Scientific Insights: Jatropha tanjorensis contains Jatrophine, an alkaloid thought to have anti-cancer properties, and demonstrates antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus.

With its wide range of health benefits, Jatropha tanjorensis stands out as a traditional remedy for several common ailments, reinforcing its importance in local medicine.