When most North American herb lovers think about respiratory health, the first herbs that come to mind may be Mullein, Yarrow, or Elecampane.
However, in South Africa and parts of Europe, Pelargonium sidoides, also known as African Geranium, is one of the most popular herbs for respiratory health.
This fragrant flowering herb has been used in traditional South African folklore, most notably for respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.
It’s also sold in Germany as an herbal product to support immunity and respiratory health.
Yet, few North Americans are familiar with the benefits of Pelargonium sidoides.
In this article, we’ll share an overview of Pelargonium sidoides, including its history, traditional uses, and the science behind its purported health benefits.
What is Pelargonium Sidoides/South African Geranium?
Pelargonium sidoides, also known as African Geranium, Kaloban, Umckaloabo, and Rabas, is a flowering shrub native to the coast of South Africa.
Pelargonium sidoides’ bright red tubers or rhizomes have been widely used by various South African cultural groups for centuries.
Its use was so widespread and enduring that it eventually became a patented and successful herbal respiratory and gastrointestinal support product.
Pelargonium Sidoides was first marketed in Britain by Charles Henry Stevens under the name, Umckaloabo or “Steven’s Cure” in 1897 as a treatment for tuberculosis.
In 1972, German researchers discovered the chemical profile identity of the P sidoides root.3 As research progressed, a proprietary extraction technique was developed and perfected to yield what is known as EP (Extract Pelargonium) 7630. REF#1606
The name Umckaloabo is believed to have been derived either from the isiZulu (the language of the Zulu people) term: umKhulane, meaning various ailments with symptoms like fever, cough, etc., and uHlabo, stinging breast pain, or as a collective term for naturally occurring ailments accompanied by fever. REF#1607
Many people in Africa and Europe still use Pelargonium sidoides to support respiratory and immune health.
5 Traditional Uses of Pelargonium Sidoides
Traditional South African herbalists have used Pelargonium sidoides for various health concerns, including:*
- Respiratory ailments, such as coughs and colds*
- Skin conditions*
- Gastrointestinal ailments*
- Bacteria and parasitic infections*
- Diarrhea*
Here’s what the research says about the traditional uses of Pelargonium sidoides and how it works.
5 Health Benefits Of Pelargonium Sidoides/South African Geranium
Pelargonium sidoides' rich history of traditional use has made it the subject of various studies.
Although most of the research is preliminary and limited to in vitro testing (test tubes), it does provide some guidance as to why this ingredient has a rich history of traditional use based on its mechanisms of action.
In this section, we’ll explore the science behind the demonstrated health benefits of Pelargonium sidoides.
#1: Pelargonium Sidoides May Support Respiratory Health
With such a reputation as a respiratory aid, researchers were quick to try and explain how Pelargonium Sidoides may support the lungs.*
Several studies have shown Pelargonium sidoides can support respiratory health and immunity in adults and children.
Researchers noted it may:
- Reduce the symptoms and duration of colds REF#1608
- Help with coughing REF#1609
- Support the sinuses and lungs REF#1610 REF#1611
- Promote strong immunity. REF#1608
This is excellent news for families seeking natural and effective relief for occasional colds and coughs.
In case you were wondering, the study conducted on cold symptoms found it reduced the duration of cold symptoms by an average of two days and was well-tolerated.REF#1609
#2: Pelargonium Sidoides Has Antioxidant Properties
Researchers have discovered various plant compounds in Pelargonium sidoides, such as antioxidants, that may be responsible for its benefits.*
Some examples include polyphenols, Quercetin, and polymeric proanthocyanidins. REF#1612 REF#1613
Antioxidants work by scavenging unstable molecules known as free radicals. This helps prevent cellular damage and imbalanced inflammation.
Antioxidants’ actions can benefit the immune system, metabolism, gut health, longevity, and much more.
Learn more in: What Are Antioxidants? How They Work And Their Benefits.
#3: Pelargonium Sidoides May Support Gastrointestinal Health
South Africans from various cultures have relied on Pelargonium sidoides to address gastrointestinal ailments for centuries.*
Research has revealed there is scientific validity to this traditional use.*
Preliminary in vitro studies suggest that Pelargonium sidoides may prevent gastrointestinal pathogens from binding to the GI tract. REF#1614
It is thought This is due to its polymeric proanthocyanidins, which act as anti-adhesive compounds, preventing specific pathogens from adhering to the intestinal tract.
Discover more ways herbs, nutrition, and lifestyle can support gut health in: Gut Health: 10 Tips For Supporting A Healthy Gut.
#4: Pelargonium Sidoides Has Skin-Supportive Properties
Pelargonium sidoides’ bacterial-balancing and antioxidant properties make it a promising ingredient for skin care.
Pelargonium sidoides powder has been traditionally used as a spot treatment for occasional breakouts, insect bites, skin irritation, and as a natural beauty aid.
#5: Pelargonium Sidoides May Support Immune Health
Pelargonium sidoides has various plant compounds that may provide an immune-supportive and immune-regulating effect.*
For example:
- Antioxidants help support normal inflammatory response, which benefits the immune system. REF#1615 REF#1613
- Anti-adhesive compounds may offer a layer of protection against specific threats. REF#1614
More research is needed to define the mechanisms behind Pelargonium sidoides’ immune supportive actions.
However, based on its historical use and preliminary research, it does appear to provide immune health benefits.*
Pelargonium Sidoides Side Effects & Possible Contraindications
Pelargonium sidoides has been used as a whole plant, extract, and topical by South African native peoples for centuries.
However, there have been some side effects and potential contraindications reported. REF#1616
Side effects observed from taking Pelargonium sidoides are generally rare and mild and may include gastric upset such as nausea, stomach ache, diarrhea, and acid reflux.
There have been rare reports of liver and kidney damage from taking Pelargonium sidoides. Therefore, it is not recommended for anyone with liver or kidney health issues.
There is insufficient evidence to support its safe use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Since Pelargonium sidoides contains coumarin, a natural anticoagulant, its use may be contraindicated for those anticoagulant drugs (Warfarin) or antiplatelet drugs (Aspirin).
However, the research proving this theory is lacking.
Some case studies link Pelargonium sidoides with fatal and nonfatal myocardial infarctions and cerebral hemorrhage.
How To Find Authentic, High-Quality Pelargonium Sidoides Supplements
Due to its growing popularity, Pelargonium sidoides, like many traditional herbs, has become over-harvested in its native habitat.
Today, sustainably-grown Pelargonium sidoides comes from specialized farms in South Africa using ecological cultivation methods.
Therefore, it is essential to verify the source of the herb before buying a product.
Reputable sources of Pelargonium sidoides may be sold under the brand name: “Umckaloabo,” “Umcka,” or “Umka,” or listed as: EPs (Extract Pelargonium) 7630.
When buying any herbal supplement, always look for companies that:
- Third-party test for identity, potency, and contaminants
- Provide transparency about ingredient sourcing
- Offer products free from fillers, binders, or excipients (excipients are non-active ingredients in supplements or medications added to enhance texture, bind, lubricate, color, flavor, or as preservatives)
- Manufacturer their products in a cGMP facility—cGMP stands for Current Good Manufacturing Practices which are enforced by the FDA to ensure safety, quality, and consistency in manufacturing, testing, and procurement of raw materials.
To learn more about herbs that support respiratory health, immunity, skin health, and more, check out the following articles: