Xysmalobium undulatum

Uzara / Wild Cotton

Xysmalobium undulatum, known as uzara, is a robust perennial herb found in the grasslands of Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga provinces of South Africa. The Zulu and Xhosa peoples use the roots and rhizomes for diarrhoea, dysentery, stomach cramps, and menstrual pain. The plant belongs to the Apocynaceae family and contains potent cardiac glycosides.

The roots contain uzarin and xysmalobin — cardiac glycosides with structural similarity to digitalis. Unlike foxglove-derived glycosides, uzara compounds exhibit a stronger effect on gastrointestinal smooth muscle than on cardiac muscle, making it uniquely suited for antidiarrhoeal applications. Uzara was adopted into European phytotherapy in the early 20th century as a treatment for non-infectious diarrhoea.

Chemical Constituents

Uzarin, xysmalobin, allouzarin, glycosides, resins, tannins.

Dosage & Safety

Due to cardiac glycoside content, use under professional supervision. Not recommended during pregnancy or for individuals with heart conditions. Standardised extracts available as registered phytomedicines in Germany.