Additional notes (click to expand)

Medicinal

Enemas of the related Eucomis autumnalis are used in Africa to treat low backache, to aid postoperative recovery and to speed the healing of fractures. Decoctions are taken for the treatment of everything from hangovers to syphilis. The active ingredients include homisoflavones, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic activity (van Wyk et al, 2000).
Van Wyk, B.E., Van Oudtshoorn, B Gericke, N. (2000). Medicinal Plants of South Africa, Briza Publications. 2nd ed

Other use

Enemas of the related Eucomis autumnalis are used in Africa to treat low backache, to aid postoperative recovery and to speed the healing of fractures. Decoctions are taken for the treatment of everything from hangovers to syphilis. The active ingredients include homisoflavones, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic activity (van Wyk et al, 2000).
Van Wyk, B.E., Van Oudtshoorn, B Gericke, N. (2000). Medicinal Plants of South Africa, Briza Publications. 2nd ed

Eucomis comosa (Houtt.)H.R.Wehrh. Hyacinthaceae Pineapple flower. From the Greek eu comis meaning 'good hair' referring to the tuft of leaves on top of the flowers. Comosa being Latin for 'with a tuft' referring to the same thing.
Oakeley, Dr. Henry F. (2013). Wellcome Library notes. link

Toxicity

Not reported as toxic but contains flavones, flavonoids and triterpenes that might be irritant and are pharmacologically active.
Professor Anthony Dayan, 2022

Geographical distribution

  • Africa, Southern Africa, Cape Provinces
  • Africa, Southern Africa, KwaZulu-Natal

Eucomis comosa (Houtt.) Wehrh.

Family: ASPARAGACEAE
Genus: Eucomis
Species: comosa (Houtt.) Wehrh.
Common names: Pineapple lily; Pineapple flower
Distribution summary: East South Africa
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: H3 - Half hardy; unheated greenhouse/mild winter
Habitat: Grassy sites: meadows, pastures, roadsides
Garden status: Not currently grown
Flowering months: August, September, October
Reason for growing: Medicinal


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