Sandpaper leaf, scientifically known as Ficus exasperata, is a tropical plant commonly found in West Africa.
It is easily recognizable by its rough, sandpaper-like leaves, hence the name. While traditionally used for various purposes, including polishing wood and metal, sandpaper leaf also holds significant medicinal value.
It is commonly employed in African traditional medicine in the treatment of a wide range of conditions.
There have been several investigations into its medicinal actions.
Leaves
Extracts of the leaf have shown to have
- Gastrointestinal protective effects,
- Diuretic activity
- Lipid-lowering effects
- Hypotensive effects
- Analgesic
- Anti-inflammatory activity
- weak antipyretic activity
- Antitumor activity
- Inhibition against trypsin activity
- A decoction of the leaves is taken for treatment of dysentery;
- For Severe headache, the head is washed with a decoction of the leaf.
- diseases of the kidneys and urinary tract; respiratory conditions such as coughs, colds, flu and asthma; hypertension.
- The young leaf is chewed and swallowed in case of gastric ulcers.
- The abrasive leaf surface is used to scarify the skin to promote penetration of medicines.
Leaves and Young Stem
- Abortifacient,
- Abortifacient,
- Analgesic,
- Poison antidote
- Diuretic,
- Emetic,
- Oxytocic
- Stomachic.
- Mouthwash against thrush, inflammation of the gums and other mouth and throat ailments. Scour the tongue and throat for the treatment of mouth and throat ailments.
Leaf pulp or sap
is externally applied for the treatment of
- Eye ailments,
- Rash,
- Wounds,
- Leprous Sores,
- Fungal Infections,
- Itching,
- Oedema,
- Ringworm,
- Rheumatism, And Lumbar And Intercostal Pain.
- The Powder Of The Dried Leaf Is Sprinkled On Burns.
Root
Root is used as a decoctions for the treatment of
- Urinary tract ailments,
- Gonorrhoea,
- Asthma
- Tuberculosis.
- Worm expeller
- The root is chewed in case of cough.
The root bark
- The root bark is used for eye problems.
- The body is rubbed with root scrapings as a tonic.
- The wood ash or charcoal is applied on lesions caused by leprosy
Bark
Decoctions of the bark are used in the treatment of:
- Coughs,
- Worms,
- Haemorrhoids
- Spleen enlargement
- Heart problems.
- Dizziness.
- A maceration of the bark, combined with Senna occidentalis and Setaria megaphylla is taken to facilitate childbirth or to heal gonorrhoea.
Sap from the stem bark is used
- To stop bleeding,
- wound healing
- Sores,
- Abscesses,
- Eye ailments,
- Stomach-ache
- Removal of spines
- The ash of burnt stem bark is sprinkled on wounds.
- The stem bark is locally applied on the body for the treatment of malaria
Fruit
- The fruit is eaten as a treatment of coughs, venereal diseases.
- The dried and powdered fruit is added to porridge for the treatment of sterility in women.
- Water with the seed powder is drunk as a tonic in case of fever.
- Some traditional healers consider it corrosive to the skin and dangerous to ingest.
How to Use Sandpaper Leaf
Sandpaper leaf can be used in various forms, including:
Tea:
Fresh or dried leaves can be steeped in hot water to make a tea.
Juice:
The leaves can be juiced and consumed.
Poultice:
Crushed leaves can be applied topically to wounds or inflamed areas.
Powder:
Dried leaves can be ground into a powder and taken orally.
Precautions
While generally safe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using sandpaper leaf, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medications.
Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to sandpaper leaf. It is recommended to do a patch test before using it topically.
Excessive consumption of sandpaper leaf may cause side effects like diarrhea and stomach upset.
Conclusion
Sandpaper leaf is a versatile plant with numerous health benefits. Its antihypertensive, antimicrobial, antioxidant, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable natural remedy for various ailments.
However, it is important to use it responsibly and consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your healthcare routine.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.
