Succulent Herbs

Aloe

• Aloe (Aloe barbadensis) is a succulent herb in the lily family that is indigenous to eastern and southern Africa and has been cultivated for thousands of years. Aloe includes about 240 species. It has a short, thick stem and succulent, pale green leaves with spiny edges. The major active medicinal constituent of aloe is barbaloin, which is found in the leaves. Aloe is used as a digestive aid and anti-inflammatory. The ancient Egyptians used it in embalming, and the Greeks used it to heal wounds, hemorrhoids and ulcers. They also used it to replenish hair loss and internally as a laxative.

Geranium

• Geranium (Geraniaceae) is a family of herbs with about 800 species, many of which have succulent leaves, stems and roots. The genera Pelargonium and Erodium, originally included in the genus Geranium, are now classified as a different genus, but are still commonly referred to as geraniums. Pelargoniums, native to South Africa, have 280 species, many of which produce aromatic oils that smell of rose, mint, citrus, apple and nutmeg.

Figs and Mulberries

• Among the figs and mulberries (Moraceae family) is the genus Dorstenia, a mainly succulent herb that includes about 105 species. One species in particular, Dorstenia barteri "Multiradiata," native to Cameroon, is a small herb that grows 8 to 10 inches tall and produces sap that is anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial. It has traditionally been used as a snakebite antidote. Recent research on leaf and twig extracts from this herb has confirmed its pain- and inflammation-reducing properties.

Daisy

• The daisy and sunflower family (Asteraceae) is not generally succulent, but the Senecio genus of this family includes an interesting species, Senicio nyikensis, native to central and east Africa. It grows to around 8 inches tall and has dark red, pompom shaped flowers with yellow pollen. A powdered infusion made from this plant's tuberous root is used traditionally to heal cuts and sores, eye diseases and syphilis.