Margaret Nomsa Sangweni continues to live an active and healthy life despite facing a serious health challenge nearly three decades ago. Sangweni’s journey began in 1997, after she underwent a hysterectomy and was diagnosed with left ovarian cancer. Doctors advised that the affected ovary would need to be removed after five years. However, Sangweni says she turned to a combination of regular medical check-ups, physical activity and traditional health practices to maintain her well-being. “As Africans, we believe that after an operation, you should take umhlabelo to help speed up recovery, unfortunately, I did not know anyone who could provide it for me.” She then began using different herbs and spices as part of her daily routine. Today, 29 years later, Sangweni says she remains healthy and continues to receive positive medical results.“Every six months, I go for blood tests and the doctor says I am clean,” she said.
Physical activity has also played an important role in her health journey. At the age of 70, Sangweni walks daily, covering distances of between one and two kilometres, depending on the day.
She also participates in marathons where she walks distances of up to 10 kilometres. “The walks help lower my blood pressure and keep me energetic,” she said, adding that she is also free from diabetes.
Sangweni does not follow a strict diet plan, but focuses on simple healthy habits. One of her daily routines is drinking warm water before breakfast. She also drinks boiled herbs or spices every day and takes a teaspoon of dry spices when available. “Before going to bed, I make sure I take herbs or spices,” she said. According to Sangweni, traditional herbs have many benefits, including boosting the immune system and helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Words of advice
She encourages others to maintain an active lifestyle and adopt simple habits that support good health. “Do not sit for long periods because it can cause cardiovascular problems,” she advises. She also advises people to avoid smoking and limit deep-fried foods. Instead, she recommends boiling or steaming meals, using olive oil when cooking and eating mostly traditional foods. Sangweni believes that a combination of activity, natural remedies and regular medical check-ups has helped her stay healthy over the years.
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