The recent and increasing use of cannabis for medicinal purposes has gained a lot of attention globally. Pain management and stress relief are often the go-to conditions associated with cannabis as a remedy. 

It really is the good green, but there are quite a few medicinal plants indigenous to our landscapes that we don't know enough about.

In South Africa, there are a number of traditional medicinal herbs that complement cannabis use, not only enhancing the benefits but also helping to navigate certain effects of cannabis that are not a vibe for some. Let's dive into five South African medicinal herbs that work well alongside cannabis.

1. Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)
Devil's Claw is traditionally used in African herbal medicine for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent herbal remedy for arthritis and other joint-related ailments.
Cannabis is often the first herb that people use as a natural way to manage pain and inflammation. Using these two herbs in conjunction with each other results in less pain and soothed inflammation. So, how do these two herbs complement each other? Devil's Claw works by inhibiting inflammation at the cellular level. At the same time, cannabis can provide pain relief through its ability to reduce the perception of pain. The two work synergistically, allowing enhanced relief.

Whether you're using cannabis for chronic pain or an injury, Devil's Claw can help to amplify its benefits.

2. Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis)
Rooibos is arguably one of South Africa's most popular herbs, a cup of Rooibos tea is a staple in most households. Rooibos is rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help overall health and protect cells from damage. It can reduce oxidative stress, providing the body with antioxidants to fight and neutralise free radicals, making it perfect to pair with cannabis, which can sometimes cause oxidative stress in the body if you consume too much.

Moreover, Rooibos has calming properties, which can help to soothe some of the stimulating or anxiety-inducing effects that cannabis can cause in certain people. Like Devil's Claw, Rooibos also has anti-inflammatory properties, which will work in tandem with the anti-inflammatory effects of cannabis to help with conditions like arthritis, muscle spasms, or digestive issues.

So, if you're looking for a calming, antioxidant-rich herb to complement your cannabis use, Rooibos is an easy and effective choice.

3. Honeybush (Cyclopia spp.)
Another South African herb that pairs beautifully with cannabis is Honeybush. Like Rooibos, it is often consumed as a tea and is a member of the legume family. Although Rooibos and Honeybush share similar flavours, properties and effects, their unique quality is their ability to help with respiratory issues, making them an excellent option for people who use cannabis medicinally for other ailments but suffer from lung, breathing, or respiratory problems.

Honeybush contains compounds that act as mild dilators for your Bronchi, helping open the airways and improve air circulation. This makes it a perfect combination with cannabis for people using it to manage asthma, bronchitis, or other respiratory conditions.

Honeybush is also rich in antioxidants, helping to reduce inflammation. Its calming properties also help to relax the nervous system, providing relief to any anxiety or restlessness that may be caused by cannabis use.

Whether you're smoking, vaping, or using cannabis in another form, sipping on a cup of Honeybush tea can mellow out your experience by supporting your lungs and soothing any feelings of nerves or anxiety.

4. African Potato (Hypoxis hemerocallidea)
African Potato, despite its name, isn't actually a potato but a herbaceous plant known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, which help manage infections and conditions like diabetes and even cancer. It is also known for its adaptogenic qualities, helping the body adapt to stress and promoting overall well-being.

When combined with cannabis, African Potato can provide a powerful boost to the immune system, which is especially beneficial if you're using cannabis to treat chronic conditions that attack the immune system, such as cancer or any autoimmune diseases. Cannabis may have immunosuppressive effects in some cases, so pairing it with African Potato helps to safeguard your immunity.

Additionally, African Potato is believed to help manage blood sugar levels, which can sometimes be altered by cannabis use. Often, the munchies also play a role in our blood sugar levels, which can be balanced by using African Potato.

5. Cape Aloe (Aloe ferox)
Cape Aloe, native to the Eastern and Western Cape, is another South African herb that complements cannabis use. Aloe is well known for its healing properties, especially for the skin, but its medicinal benefits extend far beyond the exterior. It's often used as a natural remedy for digestive issues, such as constipation, ulcers, and bloating.

Cannabis strains high in CBD, are known for their ability to support gut health by reducing inflammation and providing relief from gastrointestinal discomfort. When combined with Cape Aloe, the digestive benefits are amplified. Aloe has compounds that stimulate digestion and promote healthy bowel movements, while cannabis can help calm the digestive system and reduce pain or cramping.

Managing conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive disorders can be elevated by combining Aloe and Cannabis.

South Africa is home to vast species of medicinal herbs, so it's essential to be well educated on these herbs, how they interact with other herbal remedies, and what the effect is of their alchemy.