By Umar Nsubuga
In Uganda’s vibrant landscape, the sausage tree (Kigelia africana) stands as a symbol of natural healing and cultural heritage.
This unique tree, with its iconic, sausage-like fruits hanging from sturdy branches, has been a trusted source of traditional remedies for centuries.
Valued for its wide-ranging health benefits, it plays a central role in many Ugandan communities, where its bark, roots, and fruit are used to treat various ailments and support wellness.
Evanice Manyiraho, a seasoned herbal farmer from Kicwamba in Kabarole district, and Dr Twaha Kakooza, an herbalist from Kayunga district, share knowledge of the sausage tree, revealing its potential to enhance health, support economic growth, and preserve Uganda’s rich botanical legacy.
Manyiraho has witnessed the powerful effects of the sausage tree in her herbal practice. Known locally for its potent medicinal qualities, she explains that the tree’s bark, roots, and fruits are invaluable for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
“For people with skin conditions, from rashes to eczema, the tree’s extract is used to make topical applications that can soothe and heal the skin,” Manyiaho explains.
She also points out that, traditionally, the tree’s fruit pulp is transformed into pastes and creams to treat ailments like wounds and fungal infections.
Dr Kakooza echoes Manyiraho’s sentiments, elaborating on the cosmetic potential of the sausage tree.
“The fruit extract is rich in compounds that stimulate collagen production,” he says.
“This makes it a natural anti-ageing solution, reducing wrinkles and enhancing skin firmness,” he says.
Across Uganda, local herbalists like Dr Kakooza are witnessing a growing interest in natural skincare, with many customers seeking out sausage tree-based products to address issues like acne and dryness without harsh chemicals.
According to Dr Kakooza, the sausage tree’s bark and fruit have proven effective in treating pain and swelling associated with conditions like arthritis.
“When we prepare a decoction from the bark, it serves as a pain reliever that can be applied directly to inflamed areas,” he explains.
This practice has become especially popular among rural communities, where traditional remedies are often more accessible than pharmaceuticals. For people who engage in physically demanding work, from farming to construction, the sausage tree provides a natural way to alleviate muscle pain and improve mobility.
Another key benefit of the sausage tree lies in its immune-boosting properties. Both Manyiraho and Dr Kakooza emphasise the tree’s high concentration of antioxidants, which are essential for combating oxidative stress and strengthening the body’s defense system.
The herbal tea and extracts derived from the tree’s fruit and bark have shown great promise in reducing the severity of colds and flu-like symptoms, as well as preventing infections.
“The antimicrobial properties are especially potent,” Dr Kakooza explains, ‘making the sausage tree a natural alternative to antibiotics for minor infections.’
The sausage tree has long been used by women to address specific health needs, a practice that both Manyiraho and Dr Kakooza are deeply familiar with.
In her community work, Manyiraho provides herbal infusions made from the tree’s roots to support reproductive health.
“It can ease menstrual cramps, reduce heavy bleeding, and even help with menopause symptoms,” she says.
Dr Kakooza adds that these herbal treatments have been trusted for centuries, particularly for managing hormonal imbalances and promoting overall well-being in women.
