Mafasta

The herb has healing properties, yes - just be sure not to use too much...

— Shakir, Boltarian Shaman

Mafasta is a rare herb, found only in the soils of Boltaria. In small doses, it quickens the healing process and can save lives. In large doses, it is highly toxic and will kill almost instantly. As a result of this, Shamans have been using it both to heal and to kill for centuries.
There are also rumours of an alternative use for the herb. Some state that by building up an immunity to the herb, higher doses can be ingested without suffering the consequences - and instead receive heightened senses and superhuman strength.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

In order to be used for healing, the berries of the Mafasta plant must be picked and crushed to create a liquid - then, a tiny dosage of the liquid can be given to a patient to speed up the healing process. Alternatively, the entire dosage can be given to a victim to kill them instantaneously.
However, according to ancient manuscripts - it can also be used to provide certain abilities. In order to do this, doses of Mafasta must be given to a child throughout their development - slowly increasing in size. Eventually, the child will be immune to the toxic effects of Mafasta and their body will open up the the other effects of the herb. However, this practice has been lost to time and no shamans currently know how to do it, or so people thought - the tribe leader Targrol has somehow mastered the practice, though nobody is sure how.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Mafasta is found only in Boltaria, amidst the few shrubs that grow in the steppe.

Scientific Name

Carpris Mertam

Average Height

2m

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The flowers of Mafasta are a bright purple, and the berries are a deep red.