About Phyenti

Phyenti is a South African phytopharmaceutical and natural medicines company, founded in 2021 by a team of scientists from Stellenbosch University.

Throughout this period, we have dedicated time to researching and enhancing the product to ensure optimal results and outcomes. What drives us is our love of local medicinal plants and our shared vision to support health and wellbeing.

Blending Tradition and Science

Drawing on the knowledge passed down through generations, we honour our traditional remedies while also meeting modern day health standards.

Each Phyenti product is tested and validated to ensure it meets the highest possible standards. This blend of tradition and innovation allows us to offer time-tested remedies that are backed by science.

  • Backed by Science

    Our products are meticulously formulated and undergo rigorous scientific testing, ensuring efficacy, safety, and trustworthiness through cutting-edge research.

  • 100% Natural

    We pride ourselves on using only organic ingredients, sourced sustainably to create products that are completely free from artificial additives or preservatives.

  • Real results

    With countless satisfied customers attesting to their efficacy, our products deliver tangible and lasting benefits, providing real results you can trust.

Human Physiology and Entrepreneurship

Professor Anna-Mart Engelbrecht

Professor Anna-Mart Engelbrecht, Phyenti's Chief Executive Officer, is a leading human physiologist specializing in cancer research. She is the head of the Cancer Research Group of the Physiology Department at Stellenbosch University. Anna-Mart has generated over 90 research outputs, both published articles and book chapters. Anna-Mart is also the co-founder of another university spin-out company, BioCODE, that specializes in screening solutions for early disease detection. Her responsibilites in Phyenti include research and development, decision making, and product ideation. Her role in networking is equally crucial. 

Medicinal Plant Research and Entrepreneurship

Professor Nokwanda Makunga

Professor Nokwanda Makunga is a leading researcher in South Africa's medicinal plants, specializing in biotechnology, phytochemistry, and genetics. She's recognized for her work in socio-economic development and has received prestigious awards, including the Fulbright Scholarship in 2017. As chief researcher for the Cape Bush Doctors Association, she bridges scientific knowledge with traditional wisdom, facilitating product ideation and benefit sharing agreements. Additionally, she oversees research, development, and permit applications for the company.

Organic Chemistry

Professor Willem van Otterlo

Professor Willem van Otterlo dedicates his research to Medicinal and Organic Chemistry and has been the chair of Organic Chemistry at the Department of Chemistry and Polymer Sciences at Stellenbosch University for over 10 years. He has co-authored over 130 scientific papers and is a von Humboldt alumni. Willem has also collaborated with Professor Nokwanda Makunga and Dr Catherine Kaschula on several medicinal plant projects. His interest is in small molecules, their synthesis, and bioactivities. His roles include research and development, as well as decision making. 

Analytical Chemistry

Professor André de Villiers

André de Villiers, a Professor in Analytical Chemistry at Stellenbosch University, specializes in chromatographic separations and natural product analysis. With over 100 scientific papers authored, he's recognized as an expert in his field and serves on editorial boards for prominent journals. André plays a crucial role in Phyenti, contributing to product development and research, expanding our research capacity, and identifying novel qualities in plant extracts for our products.

Medicinal and Biological Chemistry

Doctor Catherine Kaschula

Catherine is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Chemistry and Polymer Sciences at Stellenbosch University. She has been working for some time on the health-promoting effects of garlic and other natural products, specifically in immunomodulation and cancer. Catherine has several research and popular science outputs, and she collaborates with a diverse and international team of researchers. Her roles and responsibilities at Phyenti include  intellectual property administration, decision making, financial management, and research and development. 

Analytical Chemistry

Doctor Magriet Muller

Magriet is the Chief Technology Officer of Phyenti. She graduated with a PhD in Analytical Chemistry. Her roles in Phyenti Products include product development and innovation, technology transfer, research and development, product logistics, project strategy, vision, brand development. Furthermore, her duties encompass compliance with regulatory authorities. 

Human Physiology and Entrepreneurship

Kamano Dube

Kamano is the Chief Operating Officer of Phyenti. She graduated with a Masters in Physiology and has acquired entrepreneurial skills through many incubation hubs, as well as collecting certificates in Business Development and Financial Management. Her roles in Phyenti include administration, networking, investments, daily operations, business strategies, market research and development, research and development, manufacturing, distribution, and financial management.