Purple

Delosperma (commonly known as ice plant) has a long history of use by indigenous and traditional cultures, particularly throughout its native regions in southern and eastern Africa. [1, 2]

Ancient and indigenous communities utilized different species of Delosperma for several purposes: [1]

• Traditional Medicine: Leaves and roots were prepared as juices and decoctions to treat ailments like dysentery, pneumonia, liver/kidney issues, and bloating. [1, 2]

• Spiritual & Ritual Practices: Various cultural groups in South Africa, including the IsiZulu people, utilized plants like Delosperma saturatum as a protective charm or magic plant. They would ground the plant material in water to make intelezi—a wash used for cleansing and purifying warriors and weapons before battle.

• Brewing & Fermentation: The leaves of certain species, such as Delosperma cooperi, were utilized in the preparation of khadi, a traditional alcoholic beverage. [1]

• Dietary Uses: The leaves of certain species were sometimes eaten to prevent scurvy and were used as a source to cultivate yeasts for brewing be