Agavesol launched in Graaff-Reinet

GRAAFF-REINET SAKE NUUS — Agavesol (Pty) Ltd has recently been registered as a company by four local entrepreneurs in Graaff-Reinet.

Under the leadership of the Murrays (Tim and Julian) as well as Susan Davis, the company is introducing a product which is produced from extracts of the leaves of the Agave americana plant, in which pharmaceuticals are highly concentrated by the arid conditions and abundant sunshine of the Karoo. This product known as Agavesol TM is a white coloured cream for application to the skin that alleviates itching, whether caused by insect bites or any allergic rash.

Tim Murray, local farmer and owner of large plantations of A. Americana, which was initially planted for tequila production, while exploring other economic benefits of his investment, joined forces with Susan Davis, a former employee of Agave Distillers, who was aware of the medicinal uses of the components of the plant.

A review of the literature shows that the juice made from the agave plant contains estrogen-like isoflavonoids, alkaloids, coumarin and vitamins B1, B2, C, D and K, and provitamin A. Agave americana has antiseptic, wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties, which explain its uses externally as a medicinal herb to treat burns, bruises, minor cuts, injuries and skin irritation caused by insect bites. Tests carried out in a local SA Laboratory indicate that a number of steroid alcohols are present in the Agavesol Anti-Itch Cream.

Agavesol is made to high standards of purity from 97% natural plant extracts and has none of the harmful side effects usually associated with laboratory designed drugs. There are no similar products made from the Agave plant available in South Africa.

This product has been tested for over two years and many residents of Graaff-Reinet have found the product to be extremely efficacious as indicated by the record of anecdotal evidence being compiled by the company. Any local citizens who have used the product and would like to contribute to this record would be welcomed.

The product will be distributed to a network of direct sellers such as Farmers Co-operatives and health shops. Agavesol is sold in a 250g tub or 50g tube and is available at Farm Fare for any local people who are looking for relief.