What we do
Indigenous knowledge systems
Our researchers contribute to the development of complementary medicines and products – rooted in indigenous knowledge – that are safe, high-quality and compliant with national regulations for human medicinal use. They also ensure fair access and uphold benefit-sharing principles with indigenous knowledge holders.
Indigenous knowledge systems
Our researchers contribute to the development of complementary medicines and products – rooted in indigenous knowledge – that are safe, high-quality and compliant with national regulations for human medicinal use. They also ensure fair access and uphold benefit-sharing principles with indigenous knowledge holders.
Indigenous knowledge systems
Our researchers contribute to the development of complementary medicines and products – rooted in indigenous knowledge – that are safe, high-quality and compliant with national regulations for human medicinal use. They also ensure fair access and uphold benefit-sharing principles with indigenous knowledge holders.
Indigenous knowledge systems
Our researchers contribute to the development of complementary medicines and products – rooted in indigenous knowledge – that are safe, high-quality and compliant with national regulations for human medicinal use. They also ensure fair access and uphold benefit-sharing principles with indigenous knowledge holders.
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Highlights
Herbal remedies to supplement HIV care
A partnership between CSIR researchers, traditional healers, regulators and the private sector has brought three HIV herbal remedies from Zimbabwe and Eswatini to market in the Southern African Development region. This initiative is coordinated by the Southern Africa Network for Biosciences (SANBio). The three medicines, branded Mutombo, Menivir and Veravita, are based on the traditional knowledge of herbalists from Zimbabwe and Eswatini. For over 10 years, they have been using plant-based remedies to support HIV and Aids management alongside antiretroviral therapies. Read more.
Perfecting African ginger extraction
The CSIR has investigated, developed, optimised and patented the most effective extraction method for the South African indigenous plant species, Siphonochilus aethiopicus, commonly known as African ginger, for the treatment of allergic and respiratory diseases, including asthma. This enables successful pilot-scale extractions and supports a propagation programme for indigenous knowledge holders, ensuring a reliable and sustainable supply of plant material for commercialisation.
The contribution of indigenous knowledge systems in boosting primary production
We use scientific tools and methods to support traditional healers and small, medium and micro enterprises in standardising and commercialising their products across the medicine, food and beverage, as well as cosmetics sectors. We spearhead research and development efforts to ensure that products based on indigenous knowledge systems are of high quality, safe and compliant with South African regulations for human use. This includes alignment with the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (2004); the Protection, Promotion, Development and Management of Indigenous Knowledge Act (2019) and other relevant regulations. We also ensure adherence to international standards. Watch this video on cases and experiences from Malawi and South Africa.
Our facilities
