This archive report was first published on 8 October 2019.
Published on September 3, 2019, in the journal Neural Plasticity, a study led by Wycliffe Makori Arika of Kenyatta University found that the leaves of Fish Poison Bush or Gnidia glauca can treat memory loss and reduce weight faster than common conventional medicine.
The study, which involved experimenting on 30 rats, found that the plant extract reduced obesity and improved memory and learning abilities in rats fed a high-fat diet.
Compared to orlistat, a common conventional medicine used for reducing obesity, the plant extract was found to perform better in reducing weight and improving memory and learning abilities.
Traditionally used to treat indigestion, sore throat, abdominal pain, wounds, burns, and snake bites, the plant is also known as muthira or muchingiri among the Mbeere, and 'kiris' among the Marakwet.
The study suggests that the plant's ability to protect the body against obesity-induced cell damage may be responsible for its effectiveness in treating obesity-related complications.
