What is the meaning of the name Thabai?

Only thabai I know is a plant from Africa that is used as a laxative.

Thabai or hatha is the Kikuyuname for stinging nettles (Urtica Ferox)

It is believed to have blood purifying abilities, so here in Kenya it comes in the form of teabags which are taken as an infusion.

One needs to wear leather gloves while harvesting, because thabai stings so bad! The leaves are also dried in the sun and crushed to form a powder that is used to MASH irio, mukimo or githeri. Thabai gives a nice green colour to food.

It can also be cooked just like any other vegetable such as spinach or collards (if you can avoid the stings!).