A fungus grown on dead wood is a popular, natural form of skin treatment seen on many faces of people in Grahamstown.
A fungus grown on dead wood is a popular, natural form of skin treatment seen on many faces of people in Grahamstown.
The fungus is known by the Xhosa name of isibindi which is also another word for liver. The title comes from name reddish brown colour of the fungus. Xhosa women and men apply isibindi to their faces as a way to rejuvenate the skin. Those who use it say that it exfoliates the skin and boosts the complexion. In summer, isibindi also acts as a sunscreen and some people use it as a treatment for rashes and blemishes.
Doris Rawana, a housewife from Joza says, “We used isibindi since we were young. In the olden days when people use to work long hours, ploughing and collecting wood in the fields we used it to prevent the sun from damaging our skin.”
She says that isibindi allows her to take care of her skin for next to nothing. “I am never able to afford the fancy cosmetics that are sold in town but that does not bother me because isibindi treats my skin equally well,” she says.
She says that when she wishes to exfoliate she simply grinds the dry, hard fungus into a powder, dissolves it in water and adds a small amount of sugar before rubbing it onto her face. In this way she is able to remove dead skin and retain that special, radiant glow.
Cheap and natural
The popularity of the fungus has compelled entrepreneurs to commercialise it. SuperStar traditional medicine shop in Crafter’s Court in Bathurst Street, sells a six months’ supply for only R10. Street vendors on Beaufort Street also sell it for the same amount.
“I have many customers daily and this business helps me support my family,” says an elderly woman who asked not to be named. She sells isibindi and other wares in front of Lewis furniture shop every day.
Lumka Tyantsula from Joza says “It is better than make up because with isibindi, when you conceal the blemishes, you are simultaneously treating the imperfections and with continuous use they will eventually fade away. Make up in most instances damages your skin.”
Isibindi has proven to be a popular and economical way of looking after one’s skin in these tough financial times.
