Jamba Katang is very important in traditional medicine.

Plant bark, leaves and roots are extracted to treat various diseases, from influenza and rheumatism

to sexual problems like impotence.

Jamba Katang (Combretum glutinosum) grows in the tropical savanna forests of West Africa. Even annually recurring bushfires make the tree grow stronger rather than wither. It is drought-resistant and grows in areas with an annual rainfall of 200 to 700 millimeters.

Modern research has shown that various medicinally active compounds are present in the plant. Among other things "Combreglutinin", one of the existing tannins, which has interesting medicinal properties, especially for the treatment of "Hepatitis B".

Other proven medicinal effects of the plant promote urine release, hypertension reduction, bladder stone release, and the antitussive and disinfectant properties of the leaves.

A decoction or infusion of leaves, bark or fruits is a very popular medicine, mainly for the treatment of urinary, liver and kidney problems, but also all kinds of breathing problems, fevers, intestinal problems and for cleaning wounds and wounds

When applied externally, the crushed or dry powdered leaves or bark are used as a wound dressing. The Mandinka take a leafy brew in baths and through drafts against general tiredness.

In the Senegambia region, small branches of the jamba katang are used as "chews" instead of toothbrushes to clean teeth, remove food residues after a meal and chew for pleasure. The bark is used to fill the cavity of a carious tooth, to bandage wounds, to fumigate and as incense.

Young shoots and roots are said to have aphrodisiac properties.