Acanthus pubescens belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to East Africa especially Uganda. It is a large shrub like perennial herb.
Phytochemicals
Phytochemicals present in the herb include alkaloids, saponins, glycosides, terpenoids, flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compounds.
Bioactivity
Antimicrobial - It has weak activity against gram positive and gram negative bacteria. This might explain its effectiveness in treatment of syphilis and gonorrhea.
Anti inflammatory - Anti inflammatory properties due to phytochemicals such as flavonoids and saponins.
Antioxidant - Phytochemicals such as flavonoids have antioxidant properties which help combat oxidative stress and protect against diseases.
Acanthus pubescens is locally known as Ndakariat by the Nandi tribe of Kenya. The Nandi people use the ash from its leaves for dry cough, pneumonia, asthma, tonsolitis and flu which they call Mireiwek.
Among the Luganda of Uganda the herb is called Etovu. The Luganda people use it for urogenital infections, urethral pain and endometriosis.
A decoction of the leaves has been known to boost male reproductive health and fertility. It is thus effective in sexual enhancement.