Family name: Papaveraceae
Scientific name: Argemone mexicana
Authority: L.
Zulu names: ugudlathukela
Short description: A. mexicana is an annual herb native to Mexico that became naturalized in South Africa. The herb colonizes and persists in disturbed areas such as roadsides and watercourses.
Meaning
The Zulu name “ugudlathukela” means “that which grows along the Tugela River “.
The plant gets the name ugudlathukela because it mainly grows in KwaZulu Natal, along the Tugela River.
Related use: A tincture made with the roots is used to treat stomach pain. The sap is used to treat toothache. And the leaves are used in cosmeceuticals.