Fireball Lily (Scadoxus multiflorus) Traditional Herbal Uses
Fireball lily (Scadoxus multiflorus)
The Fireball Lily, scientifically known as Scadoxus multiflorus, is a bulbous plant native to most of sub-Saharan Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Seychelles.
Common Names: Blood lily, ball lily, fireball lily, blood flower, Katherine-wheel, oxtongue lily, poison root, powderpuff lily. It is strongly toxic and has been used in arrow poisons, fishing poisons, and traditional medicine.
Benefits of Fireball lily (Scadoxus multiflorus)
Scadoxus multiflorus (Family: Amaryllidaceae), an ornamental plant
which is traditionally used in Africa for the treatment of various
diseases, including dropsy, scabies, wounds, diarrhea, inflammation,
and bacterial infection. Scientific reports on this medicinal herb is very
little.
Fever Treatment: It has been utilized in the management of fevers.
Anti-inflammatory: The plant is believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce swelling and pain.
Skin Conditions: Traditional use also includes treatments for certain skin diseases.
Sugar reducing agent
anti-bacteria
It’s important to note that while these uses are part of traditional medicine, they may not be supported by scientific evidence. Additionally, the Fireball Lily is known to be toxic, and it has been historically used for making arrow and fishing poisons. Therefore, any medicinal use should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.
Chemical properties of Fireball plant
S. multiflorus is a good source of phytochemical
moieties such as
alkaloids,
tannins,
saponins,
steroids,
glycoside,
flavonoids,
and reducing sugar.
S. multiflorus has toxic properties because they contain poisonous alkaloids. These plants are so harmful to animals, including goats, sheep, cow. The bulbs and leaves of the plant are so toxic, and most often lethal to the domestic and experimental animals. In tropical Africa, it is used as arrow poisons and fish killing poison. Traditionally, this herb is used in South Africa for the treatment of various diseases, including dropsy, scabies, and wounds. The bulb of this herb can be used to treat diarrhea, inflammation, and bacterial infection.
