5 Incredible Plants and the Hidden Stories of Indigenous Flora Among Kenya’s Communities

Step inside Kenya's spectacular natural heritage

Kenya’s natural vegetation types vary between ecosystems, some with extreme climatic conditions. On one end lie the arid and semi-arid ecosystems of the north-eastern regions of Kenya, while on the other lie the tropical and humid forests of the southern and coastal regions of Kenya.

The practical and symbolic applications of Kenya's indigenous flora

Irrespective of the location, Kenya’s communities have always adapted to the natural habitats around their settlements, and have found unique ways to use the plant life in their immediate surroundings to improve their quality of life. This exhibit shows some of the applications, both practical and symbolic, of indigenous flora among Kenya’s communities.

1: Warburgia ugandensis

The bark of this plant was used to treat stomachache, constipation, chest pain and coughs, fever, general body pain and weak joints. Today, most of these symptoms are associated with malaria. The roots were also used for treating diarrhoea, skin diseases and headache. However, the root induced vomiting.

2: Croton macrostachys

The roots of this croton were used to clear warts and treat fever, chills, nausea and muscle pain – symptoms that are today associated with malaria.

4: The aloe

The aloe is a genus of plants traditionally known to heal a variety of afflictions. These range from skin infection to internal ailments.

The ritual application of the aloe

Among the Kamba, the aloe was used to pronounce a curse upon someone. To do this, one would plant an aloe on the doorstep of the intended recipient. Once a curse had been pronounced this way, it could only be reversed through a cleansing ceremony where a sheep was slaughtered on the spot where the aloe had been planted. This was usually after amends had been made between the offended party and the recipient of the curse.

5: Vigna schimperi

The Vigna Schimperi is closely related to the cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), also known as 'nthoroko' by the Kikuyu. The leaves and grain were traditionally cooked as food. The plant was also used as forage for cattle. However, the roots of the Vigna are known to contain toxins capable of causing human fatalities in minute quantities.