Alternative Medicine practitioners are realizing that healing herbs should be part of their arsenal against disease. The newest touted natural herb is Capsicum, found in cayenne pepper. It has many benefits whether taken internally or externally. When taken internally, capsicum is an antibacterial which will encourage healing and deflect infections while slowing the absorption of fat in the intestines to help fight obesity. Because this natural herbal remedy is a stimulant, it improves circulation. Capsicum will also stabilize blood pressure and lower cholesterol. Herbalists are finding capsicum is useful in fighting a variety of ailments.

Many herbalists today recommend capsicum for such ailments as cold hands and feet, sluggish metabolisms, obesity and respiratory tract infections. Use it externally for arthritis, sore back muscles, rheumatism or sprains and bruises. One suggestion for cold feet is to wear a thin pair of socks, then get a thicker pair of socks, sprinkle the inside with cayenne pepper and put them on over the thin socks. The pepper will send a warm soothing sensation to the soles of your feet.

The General Nutrition Center has suggested that herbs that have a “bitter digestive stimulant” property might be used as well. They believe that theses herbs may produce natural digestive enzymes. Herbs like blessed thistle are advocated in the hopes that they will alleviate heartburn. As there is no clear way of knowing their effects, blessed thistle and other such herbs are not as universally recommended.

An interesting study was done to see if capsicum would irritate or cause ulceration in the intestines. On the contrary it was found that the herb did not harm the tract but sped up the healing of ulcers by secreting more mucosa, the protective lining of the intestines.

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How to lose weight around the waist

If you only want a slim waist and your weight ranges between normal to 20% above normal, what you need is not to lose weight, but to tone your muscles. Sit-ups only tone up your lower abdominals. Bending your body left and right and rotating your midriff left and right help to shape your waist.

For the upper abdomen, lie on a table with the upper half of your body hanging over the edge. Keep your arms on the sides or behind your head. Bend forward and backward. To tone up the upper thighs and backside, lie on your back with your arms alongside your body. Lift your legs alternately and stretch them upward using your stomach muscles. Do each of the above exercises 30 times on a daily basis.

They don’t necessarily reduce your weight, but they firm up your muscles and shape up your body. If your weight is 20% above normal, you need to shed some pounds first before toning up muscles. Avoid food that contains a lot of calories and protein, especially in the morning and at night. A balanced diet with adequate calories is allowed at lunch, while low fat milk is recommended to replace breakfast and dinner.

And no snacking! If this regimen works, in the first month you will be smaller in size, but your weight will stay the same due to the body’s natural mechanism of stabilizing weight. You will lose some weight after consistently being on this low-calorie diet for 2-3 months.

The recommended exercise is jogging because it burns more fat than
aerobics, which burns more sugar. You can take appetite suppressants(not weight loss pills) under a doctor’s supervision. Sweat it out! wish your good news for trying above tips, here at health news today keep body and soul healthy.

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What are the herbal medicines?

The Herbal medicines, also called botanical medicines or phytomedicines, refers to the use of any plant's seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers for medicinal purposes. Long practiced outside of conventional medicines, herbalism is becoming more mainstream as up-to-date analysis and research show their value in the treatment and prevention of disease.

History of the herbal medicines

Plants had been used for medicinal purposes long before recorded history. For example, ancient Chinese and Egyptian papyrus writings describe medicinal plant uses. Indigenous cultures (e.g., African and Native American) used herbs in their healing rituals, while others developed traditional medical systems (e.g., Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicines) in which herbal therapies were used systematically. Scientists found that people in different parts of the globe tended to use the same or similar plants for the same purposes.


In the early 19th century, when methods of chemical analysis first became available, scientists began extracting and modifying the active ingredients from plants. Later, chemists began making their own version of plant compounds, beginning the transition from raw herbs to synthetic pharmaceuticals. Over time, the use of the herbal medicines declined in favor of pharmaceuticals.

Recently, the World Health Organization estimated that 80% of people worldwide rely on the herbal medicines for some aspect of their primary healthcare. In the last twenty years in the United States, increasing public dissatisfaction with the cost of prescription medications, combined with an interest in returning to natural or organic remedies, has led to an increase in the use of the herbal medicines. In Germany, roughly 600 to 700 plant-based medicines are available and are prescribed by approximately 70% of German physicians.


How do herbs work?

For most herbs, the specific ingredient that causes a therapeutic effect is not known. Whole herbs contain many ingredients, and it is likely that they work together to produce the desired medicinal effect. Many factors affect how effective an herb will be. For example, the type of environment (climate, bugs, soil quality) in which a plant grew will affect its components, as will how and when it was harvested and processed.

How are herbs used?

For the reasons described in the previous section, herbalists prefer using whole plants rather than extracting single components from them. Whole plant extracts have many components. These components work together to produce therapeutic effects and also to lessen the chances of side effects from any one component. Several herbs are often used together to enhance effectiveness and synergistic actions and to reduce toxicity. Herbalists must take many things into account when prescribing herbs. For example, the species and variety of the plant, the plant's habitat, how it was stored and processed, and whether or not there are contaminants.

What are the herbal medicines good for?

Herbalists treat many conditions such as asthma, eczema, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, menopausal symptoms, chronic fatigue, and irritable bowel syndrome, among others. Herbal preparations are best taken under the guidance of a trained professional. Be sure to consult with your doctor or an herbalist before self-treating. Some common herbs and their uses are discussed below. Please see our monographs on individual herbs for detailed descriptions of uses as well as risks, side effects, and potential interactions.

Ginkgo ( Ginkgo biloba ) , particularly a standardized extract known as EGb 761, appears to produce improvements in awareness, judgment, and social function in people with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. In a year-long study of 309 people with Alzheimer's disease, those taking EGb 761 consistently improved while those on placebo worsened.

Kava kava ( Piper methysticum ) has become popular as a treatment for anxiety, but recent reports have traced liver damage to enough people who have used kava that the U.S. FDA has issued a warning regarding its use and other countries, such as Germany and Canada, have taken kava off of the market.

St. John's wort ( Hypericum perforatum ) is well known for its antidepressant effects, and an analysis of 27 studies involving more than 2,000 people confirmed that the herb is an effective treatment for mild to moderate depression.
Valerian ( Valeriana officinalis ) has had a long tradition as a sleep-inducing agent, with the added benefit of producing no hangover feeling the next day.
Echinacea preparations (from Echinacea purpurea and other Echinacea species) may bolster immunity. In a study of 160 volunteers with flu-like symptoms, echinacea extract reduced both the frequency and severity of cold symptoms.

Who is using the herbal medicines?

Nearly one-third of Americans use herbs and it is estimated that in 1998 alone $4 billion was spent on herbal products in this country. Unfortunately, a recent study in the New England Journal of Medicines indicated that nearly 70% of individuals taking the herbal medicines (the majority of which were well educated and had a higher-than-average income) were reluctant to reveal their use of complementary and alternative medicines to their doctors. Because the herbal medicines contain a combination of chemicals, each with a specific action, many are capable of eliciting complex physiological responses—some of which may create unwanted or unexpected results when combined with conventional drugs. Be sure to consult your doctor before trying any herbal products.

How is the herbal medicines sold in stores?

The herbs available in most stores come in several different forms: teas, syrups, oils, liquid extracts, tinctures, and dry extracts (pills or capsules). Teas are simply dried herbs left to soak for a few minutes in boiling water. Syrups, made from concentrated extracts and added to sweet-tasting preparations, are frequently used for sore throats and coughs. Oils are extracted from plants and often used as rubs for massage, either alone or as part of an ointment or cream. Tinctures and liquid extracts are solvents (usually water, alcohol, or glycerol) that contain the active ingredients of the herbs. Tinctures are typically a 1:5 or 1:10 concentration, meaning that one part of the herbal material is prepared with five to ten parts (by weight) of the liquid. Liquid extracts are more concentrated than tinctures and are typically a 1:1 concentration. A dry extract form is the most concentrated form of an herbal product (typically 2:1 to 8:1) and is sold as a tablet, capsule, or lozenge.

Are there experts in the herbal medicines?

Herbalists, chiropractors, naturopathic physicians, and practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicines all use herbs to treat illness. Naturopathic physicians believe that the body is continually striving for balance and that natural therapies can be used to support this process. They are trained in four-year, postgraduate institutions that combine courses in conventional medical science (such as pathology, microbiology, pharmacology, and surgery) with clinical training in herbal medicines, homeopathy, nutrition, and lifestyle counseling.

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A medicinal herb that contains chrysophanic acid, a fungicide used to treat fungal infections, like ringworms, scabies and eczema. Akapulko also contains saponin, a laxative that is useful in expelling intestinal parasites.

The extracts from the Akapulko plant is commonly used as an ingredient for lotions, soaps and shampoos.

Uses of Akapulko:


• Treatment of skin diseases:

Tinea infections, insect bites, ringworms, eczema, scabies and itchiness.


• Internal:

Expectorant for bronchitis and dyspnoea, mouthwash in stomatitis, alleviation of asthma symptoms, used as diuretic and purgative, for cough & fever, as a laxative to expel intestinal parasites and other stomach problems. A strong decoction of the leaves is an abortifacient.

Preparation:


• For external use, pound the leaves of the Akapulko plant, squeeze the juice and apply on affected areas.


• For internal use: cut the plant parts into a manageable size then soak and boil for 10 to 15 minutes let cool and use as soon as possible. Note: The decoction looses its potency if not used for a long time. Dispose leftovers after one day.

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Galangal, Thai Ka (ข่า), Malay lengkuas, Mandarin(Traditional: 南薑/Simplified: 南姜, also termed as: T:高良薑/S:高良姜), Cantonese lam keong (藍薑, also known as blue ginger), or in Vietnamese, Riềng. It is a rhizome with culinary and medicinal uses, best known in the west for its appearance in Thai cuisine and other Southeast Asian cuisine. Though it resembles (and is related to) ginger in appearance, it tastes little like ginger. In its raw form, galangal has a soapy, earthy aroma and a pine-like flavor with a faint hint of citrus. It is available as a powder from vendors of Asian spices and is also available whole, cut or powdered from vendors of herbs. A mixture of galangal and lime juice is used as a tonic in parts of Southeast Asia. It is said to have the effect of an aphrodisiac, and act as a stimulant. Galangal is also known as laos (its Indonesian name), galanggal, and somewhat confusingly galingale, which is also the name for several plants of the unrelated Cyperus genus of sedges (also with aromatic rhizomes).
The word galangal, or its variant galanga is used as a common name for all members of the genus Alpinia, and in common usage can refer to four plants, all in the Zingiberaceae (ginger family):
• Alpinia galanga or greater galangal
• Alpinia officinarum or lesser galangal
• Kaempferia galanga, also called lesser galangal or sand ginger
• Boesenbergia pandurata, also called Chinese ginger or fingerroot
Alpinia galanga is also known as Chewing John, Little John Chew and galanga root. It is used in folk medicine and in voodoo charms (see John the Conqueror for related lore).

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In Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric is thought to have many medicinal properties and many in India use it as a readily available antiseptic for cuts, burns and bruises. Practitioners of Ayurvedic medicine say it has fluoride which is thought to be essential for teeth. It is also used as an antibacterial agent.
It is taken in some Asian countries as a dietary supplement, which allegedly helps with stomach problems and other ailments. It is popular as a tea in Okinawa, Japan. It is currently being investigated for possible benefits in Alzheimer's disease, cancer and liver disorders.

It is only in recent years that Western scientists have increasingly recognised the medicinal properties of turmeric. According to a 2005 article in the Wall Street Journal titled, "Common Indian Spice Stirs Hope," research activity into curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is exploding. Two hundred and fifty-six curcumin papers were published in the past year according to a search of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Supplement sales have increased 35% from 2004, and the U.S. National Institutes of Health has four clinical trials underway to study curcumin treatment for pancreatic cancer, multiple myeloma, Alzheimer's, and colorectal cancer.

A 2004 UCLA-Veterans Affairs study involving genetically altered mice suggests that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, might inhibit the accumulation of destructive beta amyloids in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients and also break up existing plaques. "Curcumin has been used for thousands of years as a safe anti-inflammatory in a variety of ailments as part of Indian traditional medicine," Gregory Cole, Professor of medicine and neurology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA said.
Another 2004 study conducted at Yale University involved oral administration of curcumin to mice homozygous for the most common allele implicated in cystic fibrosis. Treatment with curcumin restored physiologically-relevant levels of protein function.
Anti-tumoral effects against melanoma cells have been demonstrated.
A recent study involving mice has shown that turmeric slows the spread of breast cancer into lungs and other body parts. Turmeric also enhances the effect of taxol in reducing metastasis of breast cancer.
Curcumin is thought to be a powerful antinociceptive (pain-relieving) agent. In the November 2006 issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism, a study was published that showed the effectiveness of turmeric in the reduction of joint inflammation, and recommended clinical trials as a possible treatment for the alleviation of arthritis symptoms. It is thought to work as a natural inhibitor of the cox-2 enzyme, and has been shown effective in animal models for neuropathic pain secondary to diabetes, among others.
Presenting their findings at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in San Francisco in June 2008, researchers discovered that turmeric-treated mice were less susceptible to developing Type 2 diabetes, based on their blood glucose levels, and glucose and insulin tolerance tests. They also discovered that turmeric-fed obese mice showed significantly reduced inflammation in fat tissue and liver compared to controls. They speculate that curcumin in the turmeric lessens insulin resistance and prevents Type 2 diabetes in these mouse models by dampening the inflammatory response provoked by obesity.


For visual information, visit : Turmeric

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Yerba Buena is a herb of the mint family. It is an aromatic plant used as herbal medicine worldwide. It has elongated leaves and in summer bears small whitish or purplish flowers. The word Yerba Buena is Spanish for "good herb" and was the former name of the California city of San Francisco.

Yerba Buena has been consumed for centuries as tea and herbal medicine as a pain reliever (analgesic). Native American Indians used it even before the "white men" colonized the Americas. Today, this folk medicine's efficacy has been validated by scientific research.
As an herbal medicine, a decoction (boil leaves then strain) of Yerba Buena is effective for minor ailments such as headaches, toothaches and joint pains. It can also relive stomach aches due to gas buildup and indigestion. The fresh and dried leaves can both be used for the decoction. And because Yerba Buena belongs to the mint family, soaking fresh leaves in a glass of water (30 to 45 minutes) makes for a good mouth wash for a clean, fresh smelling breath.


Benefits & Treatment of :



• Arthritis

• Head aches

• Tooth aches

• Mouth wash

• Relief of intestinal gas

• Stomach aches

• Indigestion

• Drink as tea for general good health.





Preparation & Use



• Wash fresh Yerba Buena leaves in running water. Chop to size for dried leaves, crush) and boil 2 teaspoons of leaves in a glass of water. Boil in medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes.

• As analgesic, take a cupful every 3 hours.

• For tooth aches, pound the fresh leaves, squeeze juice out and apply on a cotton ball then bite on to the aching tooth.

• Leaves may be heated over fire and placed over the forehead for headaches.

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Virgin coconut oil and regular coconut oil is rich in Lauric Acid, an essential fatty acid that is only found in high concentrations in mother's milk. When taken internally, Lauric Acid turns into a compound known as Monolaurin. It is this compound that is believed to fight viral pathogens that protects the body from bacteria, viruses and infections from parasites. Coconut oil also causes the metabolic rate to increase, hence helps reduce weight and is safe and beneficial for diabetics.

For many years, coconut oil has been discredited (specially in the west) because of it's high saturated fat content. But recent studies have shown that not all saturated fats are the same. The medium chain triglycerides of which virgin coconut oil is classified, does not elevate LDL (the bad cholesterol) in our body compared to other polyunsaturated vegetable oils such as canola and sunflower oil which is widely produced in the west.
How Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) is Made

First, the husk and the shell is removed from fresh coconuts, then the meat of the coconut is shredded -a process called "Wet Milled", then the meat is "Cold Pressed" to get the coconut milk without any chemicals. The milk is then fermented in containers for a day or two. After which, oil is produced. This oil is carefully filtered and separated from the curd. You now have what is called, virgin coconut oil. A more modern way of separating the oil from the curd is through centrifugal force.

The second method of producing virgin coconut oil (VCO) is using quick dried coconut meat and then processed in the same way. But the preferred manner by most is still the "Wet Milled" process.
Difference between Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) and Regular (RBD) Coconut Oil

RBD stands for Refined, Bleached, and Deodorized. Ordinary coconut oil usually comes from copra - coconut meat that is dried by either smoke, kiln or placing under the sun. Because the process itself is not sanitized, the oil must be further refined. To get more oil from copra, chemicals are usually used. RBD process is required to make the oil clear, odor free and tasteless. This procedure also removes the anti-oxidant and other properties of the oil. Some coconut oils are also hydrogenated which increases the serum cholesterol levels and thus is bad for the heart.

While virgin coconut oil, being pure, unadulterated and unhydrogenated retains it's pleasant coconut taste, smell and all the health benefits of coconut oil.

Much research still has to be done on the benefits of virgin coconut oil but preliminary findings and anecdotal reports are very promising.

Benefits of VCO

● A boost to the body's immune system

● A good source of saturated medium chain triglycerides

● VCO helps regulate blood sugar

● Lowers the viral load of AIDS patients.

● Has anti-viral & anti-microbial properties

● Helps hepatitis C, herpes patients

● Helps maintain healthy thyroid function

● Maintain LDL & HDL cholesterol levels

● Heals & nourishes the skin, hair & scalp

For visual information, visit : Virgin Coconut Oil

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Tsaang Gubat is a shrub (small tree) that grows (from 1 to 5 meters) abundantly in the world. In folkloric medicine, the leaves has been used as a disinfectant wash during child birth, as cure for diarrhea, as tea for general good heath and because Tsaang Gubat has high fluoride content, it is used as a mouth gargle for preventing tooth decay. Research and test now prove it's efficacy as an herbal medicine. Aside from the traditional way of taking Tsaag Gubat, it is now available commercially in capsules, tablets and tea bags.

Tsaang Gubat is also knows as: Wild Tea, Forest Tea, Alibungog (Visayas Region), Putputai (Bicol Region) and Maragued (Ilocos Region). Scientific name: Ehretia Microphylla Lam.

Benefits & Treatment of :


• Stomach pains

• Gastroenteritis

• Intestinal motility

• Dysentery

• Diarrhea or Loose Bowel Movement (LBM)

• Mouth gargle

• Body cleanser/wash


Preparation & Use


• Thoroughly wash the leaves in running water. Chop to a desirable size and boil 1 cup of chopped leaves in 2 cups of water. Boil in low heat for 15 to 20 minutes and drain.

• Take a cupful every 4 hours for diarrhea, gastroenteritis and stomach pains.

• Gargle for stronger teeth and prevention of cavities.

• Drink as tea daily for general good health.

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Silymarin is derived from Milk Thistle (seed extract from the flower of silymarin plant). The Milk thistle herb is a flowering plant of Silybum Adans genus, a member of the daisy family (Asteraceae). It grows mainly in North Africa, the Mediterranean region and the Middle East (now also grown in the U.S.) but is marketed and is widely available in the Philippines as a herbal liver supplement (silymarin capsules, trademark: Liveraide). Silymarin and milk thistle are frequently used interchangeably.


Laboratory experiments on animals (rats, baboons, dogs) shows that silymarin works by modifying hepatic cell membranes in a way that prevents liver toxins from entering the interior of the cells. The toxins that may damage the liver are expelled through the kidneys instead. Silymarin is a polyphenolic flavanoid consisting of three chemicals: silybin, silicristin and silidianin which are antioxidants that neutralizes and breaks down free radicals. When there is an existing liver damage, research shows that silymarin may help repair the damage and help regenerate new liver cells but is unlikely to help in the late stages of liver cirrhosis.


Many studies have been published on the health benefits of milk thistle and silymarin on humans but many are inconclusive or poorly done. Further studies are needed to fully appreciate the health benefits of silymarin on humans. However, anecdotal data suggests that it helps alleviate liver diseases and other aliments.


Since most commercial silymarin and milk thistle products are marketed as herbal supplements, they are not subjected to the same stringent standards imposed on prescription drugs. Their safety, purity and quality vary from brand to brand. In very rare instances, silymarin can cause headaches, upset stomach and joint pains. Silymarin is not recommended during pregnancy. Dozes over 1.5 grams a day may cause diarrhoea. It is recommended that you consult with your doctor or a health care provider before taking silymarin herbal supplements, liver supplements or any herbal medicine.


Anecdotal Health Benefits of Silymarin | Milk Thistle:


• Help improve liver function for those with cirrhosis of the liver and chronic hepatitis.

• Prevents inflammation of the liver

• Cure for Amanita phalloides mushroom poisoning

• Helps control blood sugar in patients with diabetes and cirrhosis.

• Helps lower cholesterol levels.

• Reduces growth of breast, prostate, cervical and skin cancer cells.

• Helps reduce fatty infiltration on the liver caused by toxins and alcohol.

• A strong antioxidant that helps fight free radicals (see Key to Healing).

• Not used to prevent hepatitis C, but used to minimize the damage caused by it.

• Non-toxic / no known overdose symptoms.

 

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Sambong (scientific name: Blumea balsamifera) is a amazing medicinal plant. It is a antiurolithiasis and work as a diuretic. it is used to aid the treatment of kidney disorders. The Sambong leaves can also be used to treat colds and mild hypertension. Since it is a diuretic, it helps dispose of excess water and sodium (salt) in the body.

Benefits:


• Good as a diuretic agent

• Effective in the dissolving kidney stones

• Aids in treating hypertension & rheumatism

• Treatment of colds & fever

• Anti-diarrheic & Anti-gastralgic properties

• Helps remove worms, boils

• Treats dysentery, sore throat


Preparation:


• Boil the leaves as like tea and drink 3 or more times a day.

• The leaves can also be crushed or pounded and mixed with coconut oil.

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Ampalaya (Bitter Melon) or it's scientific name, Momordica charantia has been a folkloric cure for generations but has now been proven to be an effective herbal medicine for many aliments. Most significant of which is for Diabetes. Ampalaya contains a mixture of flavanoids and alkaloids make the Pancreas produce more insulin that controls the blood sugar in diabetics. Aside from Ampalaya's medicinal value, it is good source of vitamins A, B and C, iron, folic acid, phosphorous and calcium.

Ampalaya has been for used even by the Chinese for centuries. The effectively of Ampalaya as an herbal medicine has been tried and tested by many research clinics and laboratories worldwide. In the Philippines, the Department of Health has endorsed Ampalaya as an alternative medicine to help alleviate various ailments including diabetes, liver problems and even HIV.


Herbal Benefits of Ampalaya:


• Good for rheumatism and gout

• And diseases of the spleen and liver

• Aids in lowering blood sugar levels
• Helps in lowering blood pressure

• Relives headaches

• Disinfects and heals wounds & burns

• Can be used as a cough & fever remedy

• Treatment of intestinal worms, diarrhea
• Helps prevent some types of cancer
• Enhances immune system to fight infection
• Is an antioxidant, parasiticide, antibacterial & antipyretic


Preparation of Ampalaya:


• For coughs, fever, worms, diarrhea, diabetes, juice the Ampalaya leaves and drink a spoonful every day.

• For other ailments, the fruit and leaves can both be juiced and taken orally.

• For headaches wounds, burns and skin diseases, apply warmed leaves to afflicted area.


Note: In large dozes, pure Ampalaya juice can be a purgative and abortifacient.

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Banaba has been used in Filipino folkloric herbal medicine for the treatment of diabetes for centuries. It is now gaining popularity and getting recognition as a herbal medicine not only in the Philippines but worldwide. Banaba is also known as Queen's Flower, Crepe Myrtle and the Pride of India. In India, Banaba has also been used to cure diabetes in Ayurvedic medicine for a long time.

Recent studies and laboratory test showed that it's active ingredient, corosolic acid is a potent compound that has insulin like effect to lower glucose in the body and is effective in treating diabetes. Initial findings also shows that Banaba extract may delay and reduce the absorption of carbohydrates in the body and promote weight loss.

Aside from the medicinal value of Banaba, as a herbal medicine, it is also good for the health. Banaba contains high concentrations of dietary fiber and minerals such as zinc and magnesium. The leaves can be boiled and taken daily as tea.

There have been no findings of any negative side effects when taking Banaba extract orally. However, caution is advised against taking Banaba with any diabetic drug or any other drug. Always consult with a qualified physician or a medical practitioner before taking any medication or any herbal medicine.

Benefits & Treatment of Banaba:


• Diabetes

• Fights obesity

• Helps regulate blood pressure

• Good for the kidneys

• Aids the digestive system

• Helps ease urination

Preparation & Use


Note: Fresh leaves, dried leaves, flowers, ripe fruit, root and bark of Banaba can all be used.

• Wash the leaves in running water (if fresh). Cut into smaller pieces if desired.

• Boil Banaba (one cup Banaba to cup of water) for 30 minutes. Drink like tea.

For more visual information, visit : Banaba

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Pansit-pansitan (family: Piperaceae) is an herbal medicine also known as Ulasiman-bato, olasiman-ihalas. English name: peperomia.

Pansit-pansitan is a small herb that grows from 1 to 1 1/2 feet. It can be found wild on lightly shaded and damp areas such as nooks, walls, yards and even roofs. Pansit-pansitan has heart shaped leaves, succulent stems with tiny flowers on a spike. When matured, the small fruits bear one seed which fall of the ground and propagate.

The leaves and stalk of pansit-pansitan are edible. It can be harvested, washed and eaten as fresh salad. Taken as a salad, pansit-pansitan helps relive rheumatic pains and gout. An infusion or decoction (boil 1 cup of leaves/stem in 2 cups of water) can also be made and taken orally - 1 cup in the morning and another cup in the evening.

For the herbal treatment of skin disorders like abscesses, pimples and boils, pound the leaves and/or the stalks and make a poultice (boil in water for a minute or two then pounded) then applied directly to the afflicted area. Likewise a decoction can be used as a rinse to treat skin disorders.

For headaches, heat a couple of leaves in hot water, bruise the surface and apply on the forehead. The decoction of leaves and stalks is also good for abdominal pains and kidney problems.

Like any herbal medicine it is not advisable to take any other medication in combination with any herbs. Consult with a medical practitioner knowledgeable in herbal medicine before any treatment.

Pansit-pansitan is used as an herbal medicine for the treatment of:


• Arthritis

• Gout

• Skin boils, abscesses, pimples

• Headache

• Abdominal pains

• kidney problems

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Oregano (Scientific name: Origanum vulgare) it is also known as Wild Marjoram, Mountain Mint, Origanum, Wintersweet and Winter Marjoram. Oregano is a known herbal medicine for its strong anti-oxidant properties. Oregano contains a rosmarinic acid compound, thymol and carvacrol that are responsible for it's anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. Oregano also contains flavinoids, triterpenoids, sterols, vitamin C and vitamin A.

The volatile oils in oregano and its properties are believed to be responsible for slowing the process of spoilage of food and thus minimizing the risk of ingesting harmful bacteria, parasites and fungi.

The anti-oxidant properties of oregano helps fight free radicals in the body that cause cellular damage and accelerate ageing. Free radicals are believed to be involved with many degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis, atherosclerosis and heart diseases, to name a few.

Benefits of Oregano:


• Good for cough relief

• Helps prevent degenerative arthritis
• Has Anti-aging properties
• help relieve osteoarthritis

• Healing wounds, insect bites & stings

• Ease asthma attacks

• Relieves upset stomach

• Treatment of urinary tract problems

Preparation of Oregano Leaves:


• Boil one cup of fresh leaves in 3 cups of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink half a cup three times a day for colds.

• For the prevention of degenerative arthritis and general good health drink oregano decoction daily.

• For Insect bites, wounds and stings, apply the leaves as a poultice or a compress directly on the afflicted area.

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Lagundi (scientific name: Vitex negundo) is a shrub that grows in the world. Lagundi has been clinically tested to be effective in the treatment of colds, flu, bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis and pharyngitis. Studies have shown that Lagundi can prevent the body's production of leukotrienes which are released during an asthma attack. Lagundi contains Chrysoplenol D. A substance with anti-histamine properties and muscle relaxant.

The leaves, flowers, seeds and root of Lagundi can all be used as herbal medicine. A decoction is made by boiling the parts of the plant and taken orally. Today, Lagundi is available in capsule form and syrup for cough.

Plant Description: The Lagundi plant can grow up to five meters tall. It can be described as a cross between a shrub and a tree with a single woody stem (trunk). Lagundi's distinctive feature are the pointed leaves with five leaflets set like a hand.

Benefits:



• Relief of asthma & pharyngitis

• Recommended relief of rheumatism, dyspepsia, boils, diarrhea

• Treatment of cough, colds, fever and flu and other bronchopulmonary disorders

• Alleviate symptoms of Chicken Pox

• Removal of worms, and boils




Preparation:



• Boil half cup of chopped fresh or dried leaves in 2 cups of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink half cup three times a day.

• The lagundi flowers are also good for diarrhea and fever. Boil as with the leaves.

• The root is specially good for treating dyspepsia, worms, boils, colic and rheumatism.

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Bayabas or guava is one of the most popular therapeutic plants in the world. Bayabas is a small tree that can grow up to 3 meters tall with greenish-brownish smooth bark. The round globular bayabas fruit starts as a flower and is usually harvested and eaten while still green. The fruit turns yellowish-green and soft when ripe.

As a herbal medicine, the bayabas fruit, bark and leaves are used. The bark and leaves can be used as astringent. The most common use of the leaves is for cleaning and disinfecting wounds by rinsing the afflicted area with a decoction of the leaves. The fruit, aside form being delicious, contains a very high concentration of vitamin C.

Uses of Bayabas:

• Antiseptic, astringent & anthelminthic

• Kills bacteria, fungi and ameba

• Used to treat diarrhea in children

• For Hypertension, diabetes and Asthma

• Promotes menstruation

The fresh leaves are used to facilitate the healing of wounds and cuts. A decoction or infusion of fresh leaves can be used for wound cleaning to prevent infection. Bayabas is also effective for toothaches.


Preparation:


• Boil one cup of Bayabas leaves in three cups of water for 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool.
• To use as mouthwash, gargle.

• To use as wound disinfectant, wash affected areas 2 to 3 times a day.

• For toothaches, chew the leaves in your mouth.


Note: Bayabas can cause constipation when consumed in excess.

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Sabila (scientific name: (Aloe barbadensis miller liquid) Aloe Vera can be used externally for the treatment of acne, pimples burns, insect bites and for moisturizing & hydrating the skin. It be taken internally for its many nutrients. Sabila contains vitamins B1, B2, B6, vitamin C, choline, niacin amide and 18 amino acids. You can mix the Aloe Vera extract with fruit juice and other drinks. Aloe Vera is also an anti-oxidant in which it prevents oxidation of certain fats and gene cells which prevents tumors and cancers. Since Sabila is an anti-oxidant, it has anti-aging properties. It also reduces free radicals which can damage the arteries. Aside from being a herbal medicine, Aloe Vera is good for the health and can be taken internally or applied externally.


Benefits:


• Treatment of acne, pimples & psoriasis

• Analgesic properties for inflammation of skin
• Helps reduce high blood pressure

• Anti-aging properties

• Heals insect bites minor burns & sunburns

• Arthritis, diabetes

• Helps prevent cancer & tumors

• Eases Constipation

• Antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic & antibiotic properties


Preparation:


• For treatment of skin inflammation, acne, pimple, insect bites, minor burns etc., remove the skin of a leaf then rub Sabila (Aloe Vera) juice on your skin and leave for at least 30 minutes.

• For hypertension, arthritis diabetes, constipation etc., remove the skin and take internally. The jell liquefies a after a few minutes and can be mixed with other drinks.

For visual information, visit : Aloe Vera

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Bawang or Garlic (scientific name: Allium sativum) is one of the most widely used herbal medicine in the world. The bawang variety is more pungent than the imported ones. It's medicinal properties has been known for a long time and has been specially proven during World War II. Because of Bawang's antibacterial compound known as Allicin, lives were saved by preventing wounds from having infection and later develop into gangrene when the juice of Bawang or garlic was applied to the wounds.

Bawang/garlic is known as nature's antibiotic. It's juices inhibits the growth of fungi and viruses thus prevents viral, yeast and viral infections. Preliminary test also shows some positive results in the treatment of AIDS.

Several clinical test and published studies have shown the efficacy of bawang in lowering cholesterol in the blood and is beneficial to the circulatory system of the body. Today as more research is done with bawang, more medicinal and therapeutic properties become more evident.

Benefits of Bawang:

• Good for the heart
• Helps lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL)
• Aids in lowering blood pressure
• Remedy for arteriosclerosis
• May help prevent certain types of cancer
• Boosts immune system to fight infection
• With antioxidant properties
• Cough and cold remedy
• Relives sore throat, toothache
• Aids in the treatment of tuberculosis
• With anticoagulant properties


Preparation of Bawang:


• For disinfecting wound, crush and juice the garlic bulb and apply. You may cover the afflicted area with a gauze and bandage.
• For sore throat and toothache, peal the skin and chew. Swallow the juice.
• Aside from being an herbal medicine for hypertension, arteriosclerosis and other ailments, garlic is also recommended for maintaining good health - eat raw garlic bulb, and include bawang regularly in the food you eat. It's healthy and taste good in a variety of dishes.

For visual information, visit : Garlic

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As a herbal medicine, Luyang Dilaw or Ginger Root (scientific name: Zingiber officinale) has long been used as a cold, cough, fever and sore throat remedy. It helps in the digestion and absorption of food, lowering of cholesterol, alleviating nausea and vomiting. Luyang dilaw has antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits:


• Relieves rheumatic pains & muscle pains

• Alleviates sore throat, fever, nausea
• Intestinal disorders and slow digestion

• Treat intestinal worms

• Hinder diarrhea, gas pains

• Relieve indigestion (dyspepsia), toothaches

• Lower cholesterol levels

• Aids treatment of tuberculosis


Preparation:


• Boil the root in water and drink. The more concentrated the better.

• For sore throat and tooth ache, remove the skin and chew small portions.

• For cuts & bruises, apply the juice directly to the skin.

• For rheumatism and muscle pains, pound the root and apply to painful areas -can be mixed with oil for easy application

For visual information, visit :Ginger

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