African Plants Used to Induce Infertility

Many African plants and herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Traditional healers and remedies are involved in the daily lives and health of millions of Africans, with plant medicine being used as an alternative, or supplement, to Western medicine. Several plants can be used to induce infertility, whether on a temporary basis (as a form of birth control), or more permanently.

Momordica Charantia (Cucurbitaceae)

• Momordica charantia is a kind of vine plant that is grown for its bitter fruit -- also known as "bitter melon." As well as growing in Africa, Momordica charantia is also found in India, China, Southeast Asia, and areas of the Caribbean. In traditional medicine, Momordica charantia is used for a wide variety of treatments, from an antidiabetic agent to a laxative. In terms of fertility and infertility, the plant works to induce a temporary infertility in women, functioning as a form of contraceptive.

Gossypium herbaceum

• Gossypium herbaceum, also known as "levant cotton" is a native cotton species found in sub-Saharan Africa. The bark of the root of gossypium herbaceum can be used as a contraceptive or abortifacient agent. The root bark is broken up to resemble the texture of tea.

Artemisia Vulgaris

• Artemisia vulgaris is a herbaceous perennial plant native to northern Africa as well as areas of Europe and Asia. Also known as mugwort, common wormwood, and several other names, Artemisia vulgaris can be used as a contraceptive to induce temporary infertility.