ABSTRACT
Agapanthus orientalis is a synonym of Agapanthus praecox subsp. orientalis (F.M.Leight.) F.M.Leight. The native range of this subspecies is Eastern Cape to KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. A. orientalis is a popular medicinal plant that is widely used in traditional medicine in South Africa. However, there are different reports on the toxicity of A. orientalis, especially the sap. Agapanthus sap is suspected of causing haemolytic poisoning in humans and severe ulceration of the mouth. A few studies have been conducted on its phytochemistry attributing the toxicity to the presence of saponins. Additionally, a few pharmacological studies have been conducted on A. orientalis. Generally, there is a paucity of information on A. orientalis, except for its use as an ornamental and in plant breeding for tolerance. More studies need to be conducted to investigate the safety and efficacy of A. orientalis because of its popularity as a medicinal plant in South Africa.
