Neishout is a South African shrub or small tree, scientifically known as Maytenus undata. It belongs to the Celastraceae family and is native to the Western Cape region of South Africa. Neishout is also commonly referred to as "Kauwurzel" or "Kolligata" in Afrikaans.
This evergreen plant typically reaches a height of 2 to 5 meters and has a dense, bushy habit with stout branches. Neishout features glossy, dark green leaves with a wavy, undulated margin and a leathery texture. The tree produces inconspicuous, small, greenish-yellow flowers, which are followed by small, fleshy fruit containing a single seed.
In traditional medicine, different parts of the neishout tree, such as the bark and roots, are used to prepare herbal remedies. The bark is believed to possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiparasitic properties. It has been utilized to treat various ailments, including stomachaches, fever, dysentery, rheumatism, and skin problems.
Neishout is also valued for its hard and dense wood, which has a rich reddish-brown coloration. The timber is highly regarded for its durability, making it suitable for construction, furniture making, and wood carving.
Due to its attractive foliage, neishout is occasionally cultivated as an ornamental plant, particularly in Mediterranean and subtropical climates. It can thrive in a wide range of soil conditions and is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
