KNYSNA NEWS - A celebration of traditional wisdom and natural healing took centre stage at The Node, Oaks on Main, this past Saturday during "The Healing Power of Plant Medicine" event.

Organiser Carlo Randall said the event was warmly received, with many attendees expressing a growing interest in indigenous medicinal knowledge.

"We spoke about the first documented plants such as Aloe ferox depicted in rock art, buchu from the Bushman water snake story, and Sutherlandia (cancer bush), which was reportedly used in the 1800s to treat smallpox among British settlers. With growing global interest in natural and indigenous medicines, events like this serve not only to educate, but to honour the cultural and spiritual traditions that continue to heal communities one plant at a time," Randall explained.

The event also highlighted the deep-rooted connection between land, health and heritage.

The importance of preserving the knowledge of indigenous communities, whose plant wisdom continues to offer valuable insights into resilience, sustainability and holistic healing, was emphasised.

Participants gained a richer understanding of how traditional plant-based healing is practised in indigenous cultures and how it both aligns with and differs from Western medical approaches.

Participants gained a richer understanding of how traditional plant-based healing is practised in indigenous cultures and how it both aligns with and differs from Western medical approaches. Photos:Supplied

"It was really eye-opening to learn how local plants have been used for centuries to treat illness," said one of the attendees.

Randall thanked the mayor of Knysna and the Khoi elders for attending and lending their support.

"Your presence helped make the day a truly meaningful success, and it is deeply appreciated," he said.

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