Sutherlandia frutescens is a shrub native to South Africa and along the coast of West Africa. It is used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes, chicken pox, external wounds, and cancer.

Lab studies suggest Sutherlandia can fight off viruses, bacteria, and fungi. It also appears to have anticancer properties. A few case reports suggest it may help decrease fatigue in cancer patients.

Sutherlandia has been proposed as an AIDS treatment in Africa. However in a trial of adults with HIV, patients taking Sutherlandia did not experience benefits, and had longer infection times. Additional studies are needed.

Sutherlandia

C$9.99

Cancer bush

Kankerbos

Balloon-pea
Infections
Lab studies suggest antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal effects. However in a study of HIV patients, 2 cases of tuberculosis occurred in the Sutherlandia group, even though they were on preventive therapy for tuberculosis.

Stomach and blood ailments
There is no scientific evidence to support this claim.

Cancer
Sutherlandia showed anticancer effects in lab studies, but this has not been studied in humans.

AIDS
Lab studies suggest antiviral properties. However in a study of HIV patients, those who took Sutherlandia did not experience benefits over placebo, but infection times were longer in a few patients.

Sutherlandia

Common Names

Potential Benefits

Scientific Name