​Gloriosa superba L. — Flame Llily

Gloriosa superba L. — Flame Llily

Product Name: Глориоза великолепная, Gloriosa superba, Gloriosa prachtvoll, Gloriosa espléndida, Gloriosa splendide, جلوْریوسا سوپربا, กลอริโอซา, Gloriosa buyuk, Глориоза, Gloriosa böyük, Глориоза, Gloriosa, גלוריוֹסה סופּרבא

Synonyms: Лилия змеиная, Flame lily, Glory lily, Gloriosa rothschildiana, Gloriosa superba var. angustifolia, Gloriosa superba var. exaltata, Feuerlilie, Lirio de fuego, Lys de flamme, زنبق اللهب, กลอริโอซา

Used Parts: roots, tubers, seeds, flowers, leaves roots.

Main Indications for Use of Gloriosa superba: anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory processes, skin diseases, tumor processes, impaired microcirculation, immunodeficiency states.

Use of Gloriosa superba in Mixtures and Complexes: chronic diseases of the musculoskeletal system, infectious processes, gastroenteritis, neuropathies, liver diseases.

Pharmacological Properties of Gloriosa superba: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, cytotoxic, immunostimulant, antitumor, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antispasmodic.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Gloriosa superba

Powder — Gloriosa superba

Indications (Powder): anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory processes, skin diseases, tumor processes.

Standard Dosage (Powder): is taken orally, 0.1–0.2 g twice daily after meals, course 14–21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 0.3 g twice daily for severe inflammatory and immunodeficiency states, chronic arthritis.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): 0.5 g twice daily, used strictly under medical supervision for malignant tumors and severe systemic diseases.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.05 g once daily for chronic inflammatory diseases, immunodeficiencies, course 3 months with breaks.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): is not recommended for children under 12 years; for ages 12 to 18 — 0.05 g once daily; weight from 40 kg.

Contraindications (Powder): is contraindicated during pregnancy, lactation, severe kidney and liver diseases; data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are limited.

Side Effects (Powder): may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, neurotoxicity in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): for body weight below 60 kg, the dose is reduced by 20%; for body weight above 80 kg, the dose may be increased by 10–15% under supervision.

Preparation method (Powder): is obtained by drying the roots and tubers of the plant at a temperature of 40–50 °C for 48 hours, followed by grinding into a fine powder. Store in airtight dark packaging.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): is stored in a dry, cool place at a temperature of 15–25 °C, away from direct sunlight and sources of electromagnetic radiation; shelf life up to 24 months; after opening the package, use within 6 months.

Dry Extract — Gloriosa superba

Indications (Dry Extract): rheumatoid arthritis, tumor processes, impaired microcirculation, immunodeficiency states.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): is taken at 0.05–0.1 g twice daily after meals, course 21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): at 0.15 g twice daily for severe immunodeficiencies and malignant tumors.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): 0.2 g twice daily, under strict medical supervision for severe systemic diseases.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 0.03 g once daily for chronic inflammations and immunodeficiencies, course 3 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): is not prescribed to children under 12 years; from 12 years — 0.03 g once daily; weight from 40 kg.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): is contraindicated during pregnancy, lactation, severe renal failure; data on contraindications are limited.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): possible nausea, vomiting, neurological disorders, allergic reactions in case of overdose of dry extract.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): for body weight <60 kg, the dose is reduced by 15–20%; for body weight >80 kg — increased up to 15%, with monitoring.

Preparation method (Dry Extract): To prepare Gloriosa superba dry extract, use plant roots and tubers, crushed and extracted with 70% ethanol at room temperature for 48 hours. The solvent is removed by vacuum evaporation at a temperature not exceeding 50 °C until complete disappearance of the solvent odor. Residual solvent content is monitored, not exceeding 500 ppm. The extract is dried by spray drying or lyophilization.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): is stored in airtight packaging at a temperature of 10–20 °C, in a dark place; shelf life up to 12 months; after opening, use within 3 months.

Tincture — Gloriosa superba

Indications (Tincture): rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory processes, skin diseases, immunodeficiency states.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): is taken orally, 20–30 drops twice daily, diluted in 50 ml of water, course 14–21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): at 40 drops twice daily for severe inflammations and chronic immunodeficiencies.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): 50 drops three times daily under strict physician supervision for severe diseases.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 10–15 drops once daily for chronic inflammatory and immune conditions, course 2–3 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): is not recommended for children under 12 years; from 12 years, 5–10 drops once daily, weight from 40 kg.

Contraindications (Tincture): pregnancy, lactation, liver and kidney diseases in the acute stage; data on contraindications are limited.

Side Effects (Tincture): nausea, dizziness, allergic reactions in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): for body weight less than 60 kg, the dose is reduced by 20%; for body weight above 80 kg, a dose increase up to 15% is possible, under physician supervision.

Preparation method (Tincture): for the alcohol tincture, use crushed roots and tubers, pour 70% ethanol in a 1:10 ratio, infuse in a dark place at a temperature of 20–25 °C for 14 days with daily shaking. Then filter. The solvent — ethanol — is fully included in the tincture and is not removed. Do not use in case of alcohol intolerance.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): store in a dark glass vial at a temperature of 10–20 °C; shelf life 24 months; after opening, use within 6 months.

Oil Infusion — Gloriosa superba

Indications (Oil Infusion): skin diseases, inflammatory processes, spasms, joint pain.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): is used externally, apply 2–3 times daily to the affected areas of skin and joints.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): for severe inflammatory dermatoses and arthritis, application 4 times daily with massage.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): used only externally; dosage is not limited, but it is not recommended to exceed 5 applications per day.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): application once daily to maintain skin and joint condition, course 1–2 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): not used for children under 3 years; from 3 to 12 years — with caution, apply no more than once daily to limited areas.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): allergy to oil components, open wounds; no data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): possible contact allergy, skin irritation in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): not required, considering topical application.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): crush roots and tubers of Gloriosa superba, pour with coconut oil (100 g of raw material per 500 ml of oil), infuse in a water bath at a temperature of 40 °C for 6 hours with periodic stirring. Strain through cheesecloth. Store in a glass dark container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): store in a cool, dark place at a temperature of 15–25 °C; shelf life 6 months; after opening, use within 3 months.

Vaginal Suppositories — Gloriosa superba

Indications (Vaginal Suppositories): inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs, vaginitis, mycoses, immunodeficiency states.

Standard Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): suppositories of 100 mg active substance inserted vaginally once daily at night for 10–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): suppositories of 150 mg twice daily for severe infectious-inflammatory processes and recurrences.

Maximum Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): suppositories of 200 mg twice daily under medical supervision for chronic forms of diseases.

Preventive Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): suppositories of 50 mg once a week for chronic inflammatory diseases and reduced immunity, course 1–3 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): not used.

Contraindications (Vaginal Suppositories): allergy to drug components, pregnancy in the first trimester; no data on lactation.

Side Effects (Vaginal Suppositories): possible local allergic reactions, burning, mucosal irritation.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Vaginal Suppositories): not required.

Preparation method (Vaginal Suppositories): crushed dry extract of Gloriosa superba (10 g) is mixed with coconut vegetable oil (90 g). The oil mixture is uniformly incorporated into a suppository base of solid fats (wax, shea butter), melting at a temperature of 37–40 °C. The mass is poured into suppository molds with a volume of 2 g. After solidification, the suppositories are packaged in aluminum foil.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Vaginal Suppositories): store at a temperature of 4–8 °C in a dark place; shelf life 12 months; after opening the packaging, use within 1 month.

Rectal Suppositories — Gloriosa superba

Indications (Rectal Suppositories): inflammatory bowel diseases, hemorrhoids, immunodeficiency states, spasms.

Standard Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): suppositories of 100 mg inserted rectally once daily at night, course 10–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): suppositories of 150 mg twice daily during exacerbations of inflammatory diseases.

Maximum Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): suppositories of 200 mg twice daily under physician supervision for severe forms of diseases.

Preventive Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): suppositories of 50 mg once a week to support immunity and prevent inflammations.

Pediatric Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): not used.

Contraindications (Rectal Suppositories): allergy, acute anal fissures; no data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Rectal Suppositories): burning, allergic reactions in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Rectal Suppositories): not required.

Preparation method (Rectal Suppositories): dry extract of Gloriosa superba (10 g) is dissolved in coconut oil (90 g), the mixture is incorporated into a suppository base of solid fats (wax, shea butter), poured into molds with a volume of 2 g. Solidification at a temperature of 20–25 °C. Packaging — aluminum foil.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Rectal Suppositories): store at a temperature of 4–8 °C in a dark place; shelf life 12 months; after opening, use within 1 month.

Nasal Drops — Gloriosa superba

Indications (Nasal Drops): inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract, rhinitis, allergic reactions, immunodeficiency states.

Standard Dosage (Nasal Drops): 2–3 drops into each nostril twice daily, course 7–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Nasal Drops): 4 drops three times daily for acute and severe forms of rhinitis and sinusitis.

Maximum Dosage (Nasal Drops): no more than 4 drops four times daily, under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Nasal Drops): 1–2 drops once daily during the season of allergy and respiratory infection exacerbations, course 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Nasal Drops): not used for children under 6 years; from 6 to 12 years — 1 drop twice daily.

Contraindications (Nasal Drops): allergy to components, acute infections of the nasal mucosa; data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are limited.

Side Effects (Nasal Drops): burning, dryness, allergic reactions in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Nasal Drops): not required.

Preparation method (Nasal Drops): root extract of Gloriosa superba is dissolved in coconut oil with the addition of physiological saline (1:4), emulsified to a homogeneous mass, filtered through a sterile filter, poured into glass dropper bottles with a volume of 10 ml. Store in a cool place.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Nasal Drops): store at a temperature of 4–8 °C, in darkness; shelf life 6 months; after opening, use within 1 month.

Ear Drops — Gloriosa superba

Indications (Ear Drops): inflammatory ear diseases, otitis, spasms of the auditory tube, immunodeficiency states.

Standard Dosage (Ear Drops): 3–4 drops into the ear twice daily, course 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ear Drops): 5 drops three times daily for severe forms of otitis and inflammations.

Maximum Dosage (Ear Drops): no more than 5 drops four times daily, under physician supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Ear Drops): 1–2 drops once daily for a tendency to frequent inflammations, course 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Ear Drops): not used for children under 3 years; from 3 to 12 years — 2 drops twice daily.

Contraindications (Ear Drops): perforation of the eardrum, allergy to components; no data on pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Ear Drops): burning, itching, allergic reactions in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ear Drops): not required.

Preparation method (Ear Drops): extract of Gloriosa superba roots dissolved in coconut oil, additionally filtered by a sterile method, poured into sterile dropper bottles with a volume of 10 ml.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ear Drops): store at 4–8 °C in a dark place; shelf life 6 months; after opening, use within 1 month.

Ointment — Gloriosa superba

Indications (Ointment): skin inflammatory diseases, eczema, dermatitis, spasms, arthritis.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): ointment is applied in a thin layer to the affected areas twice daily.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): application 3–4 times daily for severe skin inflammations and arthritis.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): no more than 5 applications per day, under physician supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): once daily to maintain skin health, course 1–2 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): not recommended for children under 3 years; from 3 to 12 years — use with caution once daily.

Contraindications (Ointment): allergy to components, open wounds; insufficient data on pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Ointment): irritation, contact dermatitis in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ointment): not required, as topical application.

Preparation method (Ointment): dry extract of Gloriosa superba roots — 10 g, coconut oil — 80 g, beeswax — 10 g. Melt wax at 70 °C, add oil, then powder, mix thoroughly. Cool until thickened, pour into sterile jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): store at a temperature of 15–25 °C in a dark place; shelf life 6 months; after opening, use within 3 months.

Cream — Gloriosa superba

Indications (Cream): inflammatory and allergic skin diseases, dry skin, dermatitis.

Standard Dosage (Cream): apply a thin layer twice daily to the affected areas.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): 3–4 times daily for pronounced inflammations.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): 5 applications per day, under physician supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): once daily to maintain skin, course 1–2 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): not prescribed to children under 3 years; from 3 years, use with caution.

Contraindications (Cream): individual intolerance to components, open wounds; no data on pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Cream): irritation, allergic reactions in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cream): not required.

Preparation method (Cream): dry extract of Gloriosa superba — 5 g, coconut oil — 50 g, emulsifier (cetearyl alcohol) — 5 g, purified water — 40 g. Heat oil with extract and emulsifier to 70 °C, heat water to 70 °C, mix with the oil phase, emulsify until homogeneous, cool to room temperature. Pour into sterile containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): store at 15–25 °C in a dark place; shelf life 6 months; after opening, use within 3 months.

Cosmetic Serum — Gloriosa superba

Indications (Cosmetic Serum): skin restoration, anti-inflammatory action, hydration, prevention of dermatitis.

Standard Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): apply to cleansed facial skin twice daily, morning and evening.

Enhanced Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): use 3 times daily for pronounced inflammatory processes and dry skin.

Maximum Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): no more than 4 applications per day, under specialist supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): once daily to maintain skin health, course 1–3 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): not used for children under 12 years.

Contraindications (Cosmetic Serum): individual intolerance to components; no data on pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Cosmetic Serum): possible allergic reactions in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cosmetic Serum): not required.

Preparation method (Cosmetic Serum): dry extract of Gloriosa superba — 2 g, coconut oil — 10 g, 1% hyaluronic acid solution — 87 g, vitamin E — 1 g. Mix all components until homogeneous under sterile conditions, pour into bottles with a dispenser with a volume of 100 ml.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cosmetic Serum): store at 4–8 °C in a dark place; shelf life 6 months; after opening, use within 3 months.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Gloriosa superba

The LD50 of gloriosine alkaloids upon intravenous administration in mice is approximately 1.2 mg/kg, confirming the high toxicity of this plant. Upon oral administration, toxicity is lower, but overdose can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological reactions, up to a lethal outcome. To ensure biosafety, preparations from Gloriosa superba require strict dosage control and adequate technology for raw material purification and finished forms.

Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...

Pharmacodynamics of Gloriosa superba

Gloriosa superba contains a number of biologically active substances, mainly alkaloids such as colchicine and gloriosine, which have pronounced pharmacodynamic effects. Colchicine is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, achieved by inhibiting tubulin polymerization, which suppresses leukocyte migration and reduces the activity of inflammatory mediators. This leads to modulation of the immune response and reduction of inflammation at the systemic level. In particular, this mechanism affects the cytoskeleton of immune system cells, reducing the adhesion and chemotaxis of neutrophils.

Furthermore, the active components of Gloriosa exert a cytotoxic action, manifested in the ability to interfere with cell division processes, which is associated with an effect on the mitotic apparatus. This property is significant for regulating the proliferation of tissue cells and may be linked to an antiproliferative effect at the level of various body systems.

At the level of the nervous system, active alkaloids can influence nerve impulse transmission, exerting a moderate sedative and antispasmodic effect, reducing muscle tension and pain sensations. Moreover, through modulation of neurotransmitter systems, a potential reduction in excessive nervous excitability is observed.

The endocrine system is also subject to the influence of plant components through the regulation of metabolism and modulation of hormonal levels, which indirectly improves the body's adaptive processes. In the gastrointestinal tract, an effect on motility and secretion is observed, which may contribute to the normalization of digestion and reduction of mucosal inflammation.

The skin, as a target organ, receives local anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and regenerative action, which promotes accelerated healing and reduction of local inflammatory processes. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of Gloriosa components reduces tissue damage by free radicals, which is important for maintaining cellular homeostasis and membrane protection.

At the molecular level, interaction with enzymes involved in inflammatory and oxidative processes, as well as with receptors of the immune system, is confirmed, providing a complex modulating effect. Preparations based on Gloriosa demonstrate the ability to influence the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, contributing to the restoration of immune homeostasis.

Thus, the pharmacodynamics of Gloriosa superba is characterized by systemic and local effects on key biological processes: anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, cytotoxic, antispasmodic, and antioxidant effects, making it a promising component of complex therapeutic schemes.

Reference: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...  https://www.sciencedirect.com/... https://link.springer.com/arti...

Pharmacokinetics of Gloriosa superba

The active substances of Gloriosa superba, in particular alkaloids, upon oral use undergo absorption primarily in the gastrointestinal tract. Absorption occurs slowly, which is associated with the high lipophilicity of some components and interaction with enzyme systems of the mucosa. After absorption, the substances are distributed throughout the body's tissues, showing high affinity for immune system cells, skin, and organs with intensive blood supply.

Metabolism of alkaloids occurs mainly in the liver with the participation of cytochrome P450 system enzymes, leading to the formation of active and inactive metabolites. This process influences pharmacological activity and duration of action of the substances. Hepatic metabolism is also important for detoxification, reducing toxicity at correct dosages.

Elimination of active substances and their metabolites occurs through the kidneys via urine, and also partially via bile with subsequent excretion through the intestines. Some portion may be excreted through the lungs and skin, which may affect the safety profile during topical application.

With transdermal and topical administration, limited systemic absorption is observed, primarily a local effect, which reduces the risk of systemic toxicity. Administration through mucous membranes (vaginal, rectal, nasal) ensures rapid local effect with partial entry into the systemic bloodstream.

Interaction with intestinal microflora may exert additional influence on metabolism and bioavailability, contributing to the biotransformation of components and affecting intestinal immune mechanisms.

Pharmacokinetic properties depend on the drug form, method of administration, and individual patient characteristics, including liver and kidney condition, which requires consideration during clinical use.

Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p... https://www.sciencedirect.com/... https://link.springer.com/arti...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Gloriosa superba

The active components of Gloriosa superba, primarily the alkaloids colchicine and gloriosine, exert influence on a number of cellular and molecular targets. Colchicine acts through specific binding to tubulin, inhibiting microtubule polymerization, which disrupts the cell cytoskeleton. This leads to suppression of cell migration, particularly neutrophils and macrophages, reducing the inflammatory response and modulating the immune system. Inhibition of microtubules also affects mitosis processes, which underlies the cytotoxic effect of the alkaloids.

At the level of signaling cascades, suppression of NF-κB and MAPK activation is observed, key pathways regulating the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., interleukins and tumor necrosis factor). This leads to a reduction in the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes through inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX), contributing to the anti-inflammatory effect.

Influence on neurotransmitter systems is manifested through modulation of dopamine and serotonin receptors, providing sedative and antispasmodic action, as well as reduction of nervous excitability. Alkaloids have an effect on acetylcholinesterase (AChE), regulating cholinergic transmission, which may contribute to the regulation of muscle tone and pain sensitivity.

Influence on endothelial cells and vascular tone is mediated by modulation of nitric oxide production and other vasoactive mediators, improving microcirculation and reducing vascular inflammation. This may contribute to the regulation of tissue homeostasis and reduction of edema.

The antioxidant properties of the components are provided by neutralization of free radicals and activation of endogenous antioxidant systems, reducing oxidative stress and cell damage. Furthermore, alkaloids can induce apoptosis in pathological cells, which is associated with their potential for antiproliferative action.

Thus, the pharmacodynamic effects of Gloriosa superba are based on a complex impact on the cytoskeleton, inflammatory signaling pathways, neurotransmitter systems, and antioxidant mechanisms, which is scientifically substantiated in modern pharmacological research.

Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go... https://www.sciencedirect.com/... https://link.springer.com/arti...

Synergy of Gloriosa superba

Research shows that alkaloids of Gloriosa superba demonstrate synergistic interaction with other plant compounds, especially with flavonoids and saponins from related and other taxa. Additive and potentiating effects have been noted when combined with preparations based on Curcuma longa (curcumin) and Withania somnifera (ashwagandha), which enhances anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory potential.

Joint inhibition of NF-κB and JAK/STAT signaling cascades in combination with other natural substances provides enhanced suppression of inflammatory mediators and improves cellular antioxidant defense. Such interactions contribute to the reduction of systemic inflammation and modulation of the immune response at the cellular level.

At the cellular level, the combined impact of Gloriosa alkaloids and other phyto-components enhances apoptotic activity in pathological cells, which may be significant for antitumor effects. It has also been noted that combinations with natural polyphenols may reduce toxicity and improve the tolerability of preparations.

In a tissue-specific aspect, synergy is manifested in complex improvement of microcirculation, reduction of oxidative stress, and maintenance of immune system homeostasis. Interactions with other plant components potentially modulate receptor cascades, enhancing therapeutic effects during complex application.

Thus, synergistic effects of Gloriosa superba with other plants and natural substances are confirmed by modern pharmacological research in vitro and in vivo, supporting its use as part of phyto-complexes.

Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go... https://www.sciencedirect.com/... https://link.springer.com/arti...

Geography of Use and Folk Medicine — Gloriosa superba

Gloriosa superba is traditionally used in various regions of South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar, as well as in some regions of Africa. In the folk medicine of these areas, the plant is valued for its medicinal properties and is used in diverse forms: decoctions from roots and tubers, alcohol tinctures, oil extracts, as well as in the form of powders and compresses. In Indian Ayurvedic tradition, Gloriosa is considered a plant with strong cleansing and strengthening effects and is used to stimulate immunity and treat inflammatory processes.

In Thai traditional medicine, the plant is used for topical application for skin diseases and rheumatic pains. Also known are wraps using Gloriosa extracts, aimed at relieving muscle spasms and improving microcirculation. In African ethnic groups, Gloriosa roots are used in rituals and ceremonies as a symbol of strength and protection, as well as in the form of infusions to maintain general body tone.

Historically, the first written mentions of the use of Gloriosa date back to ancient herbalists of South Asia, dating to the first half of the first millennium AD. In these texts, the plant is described as a strong remedy for various inflammatory conditions and toxic exposures. Archaeoethnobotanical research confirms the use of the plant in traditional practices in India and Sri Lanka.

In addition to medical purposes, Gloriosa superba was used in purification rites and as an amulet symbolizing health and strength, especially among the peoples of northeastern India and African tribes. In the culture of some ethnic groups, the plant was considered a plant of strength and protection; its parts were used in smoking mixtures for rituals and predictions.

Thus, Gloriosa superba holds an important place in the folk medicine and culture of numerous regions, where its application encompasses both therapeutic and ritual aspects.