Evidence supporting the use of: Pepper Bark Tree
For the health condition: Insect Repellant

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

The use of the Pepper Bark Tree (Warburgia salutaris) as an insect repellent is primarily justified by traditional practices. Indigenous peoples in Southern and Eastern Africa have historically used the leaves and bark of this tree for a variety of medicinal purposes, including as a means to deter insects. Methods include burning the bark or leaves to create a protective smoke, or applying extracts to the skin. Such practices have been documented in ethnobotanical surveys of African traditional medicine. However, while there is some anecdotal and traditional support for its use as an insect repellent, scientific studies specifically evaluating the efficacy of Warburgia salutaris against insects are limited. A few studies have identified antimicrobial and antifungal compounds in the bark and leaves, but research directly targeting insect-repellent activity is sparse. Therefore, the rating reflects that the evidence is primarily traditional, with a moderate level of documentation from ethnobotanical sources but lacking robust scientific validation or controlled studies on its repellent efficacy.

More about Pepper Bark Tree
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Products containing Pepper Bark Tree

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.