KOUSSO or KUSSO

(Brayera anthelmintica; Hagenia abyssinica; Banksia abyssinica; ROSACEAE)

Parts used:

Fresh or dried flowers (pistillate preferred); also herb, unripe fruit.

Therapeutic action:

Anthelmintic (taeniafuge), cathartic, astringent.  Kousso is generally quick and effective, and is safe, but it is sometimes slightly nauseous, and occasionally may excite heat, followed by vomiting (rare) or diuresis.  Since its purgative power is often insufficient to expel the head of the parasite, a brisk antibilious cathartic is often necessary (if the bowels do not move within 4 hours).

Medicinal uses:

Tape worms (both types).

Preparation:

Fluid extract, infusion, powder.