Brayera

Brayera is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rosaceae. The genus is native to the highlands of Ethiopia and is known for its medicinal properties. The most well-known species within this genus is Brayera anthelmintica, commonly referred to as the Kousso tree.

Description

Brayera species are typically small trees or shrubs. They have compound leaves with serrated edges and produce small, inconspicuous flowers. The flowers are usually arranged in clusters and can be either white or pink. The fruit of Brayera plants is a small, dry capsule that contains several seeds.

Uses

The primary use of Brayera, particularly Brayera anthelmintica, is in traditional medicine. The dried flowers of the Kousso tree are used as an anthelmintic, which means they are used to expel parasitic worms and other internal parasites from the body. This use is particularly common in Ethiopian traditional medicine.

Cultivation

Brayera plants are typically found in the highland regions of Ethiopia, where they grow in well-drained soils. They prefer a temperate climate and are often found at elevations between 1,500 and 2,500 meters. The plants are relatively hardy and can tolerate a range of soil types, although they prefer loamy soils with good organic content.

Conservation

The conservation status of Brayera species is not well-documented. However, like many plants with medicinal properties, they may be at risk from overharvesting. Sustainable harvesting practices and conservation efforts are important to ensure that these plants remain available for future generations.

Related Pages

• Rosaceae
• Kousso
• Ethiopian traditional medicine
• Anthelmintic