It’s leaves have effects comparable to ibuprofen. It is the Psychotria insularum, or matalafi, and is a small shrub endemic to the island of Samoa.
On the island of Samoa there is a tree with exceptional properties, able to cure fever and pain. It is the Psychotria insularum, or matalafi in local jargon, a small plant that can reach about 1.8 meters in height. The curative properties are in its leaves which, according to researchers, can be used with results comparable to those obtained by ibuprofen. This is what has been observed in a research conducted by scientists at Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand and published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
The characteristics of the tree that cures fever
The objective of the researchers’ study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Psychotria insularum leaves in the treatment of ailments and clinical conditions such as muscle aches and fever. The matalafi plant is characterized by small white flowers and shiny red berries that sprout between large green leaves, and the study authors pointed out that the foliage had long been used in traditional Samoan medicine to treat illness and inflammation. The team of scientists, led by Seeseei Molimau-Samasoni, went deeper into analyzing the tree’s components and examined all of the plant’s beneficial properties.
What the tree on the island of Samoa may be used for
Scientists found that the tree’s leaves are rich in rutin and nicotiflorin. These two compounds have properties known for their anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. According to experts, Psychotria insularum leaves could also be used to treat cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and even Covid-19. “Matalafi leaves can reduce the iron overload that can occur during blood transfusions,” explained Helen Woolner of Victoria University, “and they may also act on a number of clinical conditions. Investigations into the tree endemic to the island of Samoa, however, must be further investigated before it can be used in clinical applications.
The natural world is rich with interesting features and there are still many mysteries to be revealed about the world’s flora. For example, recently it has been discovered the secret of a plant which cannot die, whereas in Holland it has been blossomed, after 24 years, the very rare penis plant.
Stefania Bernardini