The name Lemongrass gives away the fundamentals of the herb. It’s a grassy plant with a lemony flavor, but it tastes milder and sweeter. Lemongrass, also called fever grass, is a perennial plant with thin, long leaves that is indigenous to many Asian countries. This herb is used in various Asian cuisines as a flavoring agent due to its potent flavor. This herb is accessible from just about any ethnic shop, health food store, online marketplace, or even within the aisle of many supermarkets. It contains antibacterial, curative, and antioxidant properties that make lemongrass a great alternative for a broad spectral range of common ailments.
Nutritionally, lemongrass is a good source of vitamins A and C, folate, folic acid, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, potassium, phosphorus, calcium and manganese. It also has minute traces of B vitamins.
Along with its culinary uses, lemongrass is useful in alternative or complementary remedies for a wide range of ailments.
1) Its Anti-septic
Some research suggests that the antiseptic properties of lemongrass to be more powerful than penicillin and streptomycin when used as a treatment for staph infections. Kathi Keville of the American Herb Association says that if used as a compress or a wash, that lemon grass combats various kinds of skin infections and infected sores due to these antiseptic properties.
2) Has Plenty of Antioxidants
Unstable free radicals interact together with the DNA and proteins of the cells in your system. These interactions can lead to chronic diseases like Alzheimers and cancer. The antioxidants in lemongrass have been shown to stop these reactions.
3) Fights off Infections
While clinical trials are essential to demonstrate these advantages conclusively, the Brazilian Journal of Infectious Diseases published an article showing how lemongrass can help to stop the growth of certain infections. The study also shows that lemongrass may treat fungal infections, but says that more clinical trials are necessary.
4) Anti-inflammatory
Research conducted by the Indian Institute of Toxicology found lemon grass extracts to be a successful remedy for inflammation. The powerful anti-oxidants in lemon grass reduced oxidative stress in mitochondrial membranes, investigators in the study claim.
5) It is an Oil Combatant
Lemon grass is commonly used within the cosmetics industry. It is found mainly in deodorants, soaps, and colognes not only for the pleasant and fresh aroma but also for its practical advantages. Mixing in 10-20 drops of the oil into a facial wash or conditioner, for example, would help with acne or oily hair as it helps to cut down on the production of oils. Be aware that some people might experience some skin irritation with this use.
6) Helps Heart Problems
Lemongrass can help to dilate and relax the walls of the body’s blood vessels.This may decrease the risk of hypertension as well as other related cardiovascular diseases.
7) Lowers Cholesterol
Based on a university study, lemongrass tea may possess a cholesterol-lowering effect. Consult with your physician prior to your use of lemongrass to deal with high cholesterol to see if it would work for your particular needs.
8) Deals With Stress
The volatile oils of lemongrass also demonstrate significant anti-stress action by regulating particular neuroreceptors when applied to mental performance. These results were found in lab animals and have not been yet been tested for people. As such, consult a physician before using lemongrass extracts to deal with stress.
9) Fights Cancer
A study published in PubMed states that lemongrass extracts can cause apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in certain cancer cell lines. Nevertheless, these gains haven’t been analyzed in patients, and much more research is necessary before lemongrass extracts may be used for cancer treatment, says the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
Possible Side Effects of Lemongrass
Lemongrass isn’t connected with any bothersome or significant side effects when taken internally in recommended dosages. Cases are reported, however, by which individuals have developed skin rashes after drinking lemongrass tea. Those with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to lemongrass should be sure to avoid it. Lemongrass, along with other essential oils could cause allergic contact skin responses in certain individuals.
Lemongrass might lower blood glucose levels. Blood sugar levels might have to become monitored with a healthcare provider, and medication adjustments might be crucial if this happens. Lemongrass could cause minor increases in liver function tests, as well. Lemongrass is not to be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Because it tends to raise body heat, most people should avoid drinking lemongrass tea in surplus. Make sure that you consult a physician before you begin taking this herb if you’re experiencing any ailment. Promptly cease taking it in the event that you feel any side effect after using this herb.
Lemongrass is quite popular and should be found in many stores which carry natural health products. It can be found in tea, extract oil, cut/sifted, live plant, seeds, and stalk form.
Beluntas (Pluchea indica L / Baccharis indica L) is a plant commonly grown in a college or serve as a fence. The name of this plant is probably not so familiar. However, these plants do not actually form seasing name. If we look carefully, almost certainly the people would know him as the plants are often found in the yard, because it is often used as a hedge plant.
Beluntas leaves according to research results have antibacterial and antioxidant functions as well as potential for development as a food preservative and medicine.Plants growing in the family Asteraceae small shrub, grows upright and can grow as high as 2 meters with many branches. Beluntas or who have other names Phatpa or Marsh Fleabane has a short petiole, rounded edges taper, with a serrated edge. Some areas in Indonesia beluntas name with a different name like baluntas (Madura), Luntas (Central Java), and Lamutasa (Napier).
Beluntas an upright shrubs, woody, much branched, with a height can reach two meters. Single leaf, rounded egg shape, pointed tip, downy, yellowish-green young leaves and old after a long pale green leaves and from 3.8 to 6.4 cm. Grows wild in the soil with high humidity; in several places in West Java, this plant is used as a hedge and the boundary between land on the estate.
Chemical properties
Beluntas have leaves that contain alkaloids, tannins, sodium, essential oils, calcium, flafonoida, magnesium and phosphorus. At the root there flavonoid and tannin.
Pharmacological effects
According to the research results can be used beluntas leaves fresh or dried and has a distinctive odor, taste bitter, helping improve appetite, antifertilitas and helps facilitate digestion.
Some of the benefits of natural herbs Beluntas to health problems among others.
Part of Plant Used & Utilization:
All parts of plants, either fresh or dried, can be used to treat some diseases as follows.
1. Digestive Disorders in Children
Wash 3-5 leaves beluntas, knead, mix with porridge or rice strain teams, stir, and eat. Perform each meal.
Alternatively, squeeze 10 leaves, add 1 tablespoon of honey, and mix well. Combine this mixture on the team or porridge rice strain to be given with each meal.
2. Rheumatic pain
Take 15 grams of root Beluntas, wash and boil with water and drinking water was boiled roots
3. Eliminates body odor
Leaves and flowers beluntas contain alkali can be used as an antiseptic.
How to use leaf beluntas to eliminate body odor is eaten raw or steamed first. Rinse leaves beluntas 10-15 and then eat as a salad. Perform routine 3 times a day. In addition to eliminating body odor Beluntas leaves also can eliminate bad breath. For those who do not like, can by drinking boiled water leaves every morning and evening. Beluntas also useful lower body temperature, so much sweat that comes out and the body temperature to drop.
4. Lowering Heat
Brewed beluntas like brewing tea leaves, then drink until normal body temperature.
Note:
Pregnant Women are prohibited from consuming this plant and not good for women because it can reduce woman's fertility.
Local name: Mengkudu
Scientific name: Morinda citrifolia
Other names:Noni, mengkudu besar, queen of morinda, morinda,nthau,Indian mulbery, Ba Ji tian, hog apple,wild pine,menkoedoe,Ruibardo Caribe
Family:Rubiaceae
Mengkudu is more popularly known as noni. It is a type of plant that is commonly found in the tropics. Generally, mengkudu, can be categorised as small mengkudu and big mengkudu. It can also be categorised as with seeds and without (this is not so commonly found). In western countries, mengkudu is known as queen of morinda, it is also sometimes called cheese fruit because the smell it emits is similar to cheese when the fruit ripens. The leaves can be eaten as vegetables or ulam. It is rich in vitamin A.
Noni is definitely the fruit of the Morinda citrifolia tree, which is indigenous to the regions of Southeast Asia to Australia. The Morinda citrifolia is really a tree of the coffee family, and is also identified by distinct titles all over the earth. A number of the widespread titles of this tree are usually, Indian mulberry, great morinda, cheese fruits and also beach mulberry. This tree can easily attain a height of approximately 12 feet. Noni fruit is green in color, yet ultimately turns into yellowish green whenever ripened. It will take about Three months on an average for the noni fruits to ripen. Noni fruits are these days more and more utilized for producing nutritional supplements, since they are proven to supply a number of health advantages. The health supplements mostly are obtainable in the form of noni juice.
NONI is actually a Distinctive Exotic FRUIT which is cultivated within the Pacific Islands. It is known to the Pacific Island people as being a advantageous foodstuff. Usually it is used as a beverage to boost bodily functionality as well as assist all round great health. It really is well known as the “Aspirin of the Ancient”. It has been used successfully for more than 2,000 years in Polynesia, China India and also elsewhere and grows best wherever there is pollution free volcanic soil. The Cook Islands being one of several regions where it grows, have a distinctive feature; those are the only region on the planet that may claim to be totally “Organic” in the horticulture.
In the Carribean, it is known as 'pain killer tree' . In Malaysia, it is used as an antidote for urinary problems, period pains and bleeding. The mengkudu leaves are used as a bath infusion for women who are in confinement. Research has shown that mengkudu has the nutrients to prevent diabetes, cancer and hypertension. It is also said to provide relief for asthma, hay fever and rheumatism. Intake of mengkudu juice can also prevent diseases caused by hormonal deficiency like senility and is said to slow down aging.
Noni fruit has had hardly any scientific study therefore; the benefits supplied in this post are to this day not scientifically confirmed. We do know that this is a effective anti-oxidant as well as anti-inflammatory which usually certainly have applications to enhancing overall health. More people are boasting its health advantages.
1. Antioxidant
Antioxidants assist to battle toxins within the body. Free-radicals include the byproducts of food metabolism. Free radicals result in the oxidization of tissues. This originally leads to swelling in your body and finally can result in disease. Antioxidants eliminate toxins supplying the body along with defense against cardiovascular disease as well as cancer.
2. Anti-inflammatory
Noni fruit is really a effective anti-inflammatory that makes it relevant in lots of inflamation related illnesses. Conditions just like arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, as well as osteoarthritis particularly, noni fruit might help relieve the symptoms. Swelling in joints causes swelling, pain as well as lack of motion. By reduction of swelling in joints, the sufferer can get decreased swelling, enhancement in pain levels as well as rise in joint flexibility. Various other inflamation related problems that may benefit consist of psoriasis, eczema, acne, asthma, inflammatory bowel diseases and dermatitis.
3. Skin Health
Noni fruit can be used as a tonic for the skin. As being a abundant source of anti-oxidants, vitamin A and C plus selenium causes it to be a powerful fruit for skin health. These types of nutrition assist to safeguard the skin from cell damage and also the outcomes of ageing. Noni fruit creams at the moment are readily available for external use.
4. Improves Digestion
Noni juice equally supports as well as energizes the digestive process, promoting a far more effective breakdown of food into practical forms of nutrients. The laxative qualities of the juice assisted in the removal of waste material, cleaning the colon and efficiently sustaining a healthy environment within the lower intestine. Since digestion is improved, noni juice can also be capable of manage weight through the elimination of cravings since the body is much better revitalized.
5. Mental Health
Since noni fruit encourages serotonin discharge through the brain, some individuals have said mental health advantages. Serotonin will be a feel great hormone which can be used to manage moods. Noni fruit might be useful in the management of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders and also as a sleep aid. However, there isn’t any technological data presently to back these types of claims.
6. Noni for Diabetes
Initial research has discovered noni juice to be a highly effective supplement for the management of diabetes. In accordance with the research presented in “Evidence-based Complementary as well as Alternative Medicine,” after 20 days of dealing with diabetic animals along with noni, a substantial normalization of hyperglycemia — high blood-sugar levels — occurred which was nearly equal to that of the animals cured with classic diabetic drugs. The animals using noni juice additionally had considerably less liver damage and also fatty deposits within their livers as compared to animals within the placebo group. Noni juice’s mechanism of action just isn’t yet recognized, however it is assumed that noni possibly helps you to encourage insulin release or even improve insulin sensitivity within the body.
7. Noni for Cancer
Noni is considered the subject of research like a healing supplement for cancer patients. Research has shown that noni encourages an immune response, probably because of polysaccharides, that are antioxidant-rich ingredients seen in noni juice. One study discovered that the polysaccharides within noni juice assisted to avoid the expansion of breast as well as colon cancer cells. One more compound which was present in noni, known as a glycoside, was discovered to prevent cancer cells from attacking as well as damaging DNA and duplicating. These studies is still initial, yet McClatchey states that research is displaying guarantee for the usage of noni like a therapeutic adjunct for cancer victims.
8. Supports the Immune System
Since noni juice raises the assimilation of food, essential immune-supporting nutrition be more easily available to the body. Additionally, noni juice increases the elimination of waste elements through the body, therefore restricting the cells’ contact with harmful toxins which enter in the body’s system because of contaminated air or water within the atmosphere.
9. Pain-Relieving Properties
Noni juice is utilized effectively as a possible pain killer, reducing pain with out negative effects. This can be possible due to the connections in between xeronine as well as the cells. Xeronine results in a positive atmosphere for normal cellular functions, and also this in return, may possibly encourage a general sense of wellness, which in turn lessens the pain messages towards the brain.
10. Antibacterial
Whilst not an alternative to anti-biotics, the active dietary elements in noni juice, particularly anthraquinones, scopoletin and terpenes, can easily eliminate bacteria as well as fungus.
11. Immune system booster
Noni stimulates macrophages as well as fortifies the immune system, which in turn generates more lymphocytes. Additionally, it consists of anti-bacterial agents which combat infectious bacteria, which includes Staphylococcus aureus as well as Escherichia coli.
12. Antidepressant/sedative
Noni encourages seratonin as well as melatonin, two extremely important hormones. Seratonin affects mood, emotions, and sleep; imbalance in amounts of serotonin may possibly give rise to depressive disorders. Melatonin manages the Circadian rhythm, which will help you sleep; keeping this regular can help you obtain a good night’s rest, additionally enhancing your mood.
13. Skincare/hair
Noni’s qualities are helpful on skin and scalp conditions, just like eczema as well as ringworm; also applied on scalp for glossy hair; and can keep the skin youthful. Simply apply a few juice on affected skin/scalp, leave on for Fifteen minutes, rinse off. Ingestion of juice might help your nails to grow much better.
14. Hypertension
Noni has elevated levels of phytonutrients, selenium, as well as vitamin C, which battles free radical damage on blood vessel walls; scopoletin, a substance that could reduce blood pressure level; it really is alkaline, which will keep body fluids from turning into too acidic, as a result damaging free-radicals. Additionally, it has proxeronine, that is required for the body to make xeronine. Xeronine assists synchronize the cells to operate harmonious, lowering stress and as a result, blood pressure. Also offers the amino acid, tryptophan. When tryptophan enters the blood stream and goes to cells, it will help create some other substances which are important, for instance even more seratonin, that is ideal for reducing blood pressure level by means of its relaxing effect.
15. Irritable Bowel Syndrome/constipation
Noni is high in dietary fiber, which will help relieve the strain in your intestines as well as softens stool. Also offers essential vitamins and minerals to maintain your intestines healthy and balanced.
16. Metabolism
Move over Acai berry as well as green tea, Noni berry for metabolism is definitely the most recent super fruit which is creating waves within the health supplements circuit. Noni berry is commonly known as to boost your energy needs, help much better digestive function, control metabolic process and assist you to lead an energetic, healthy lifestyle. The local individuals of Polynesia utilized Noni fruit to fight exhaustion on a trip long distance. These days, Noni berry extracts, Noni tea, Noni tonic as well as other pills as well as tablets supply the exact same health advantages utilized traditionally. Noni berry for metabolism could also find uses for treating raised blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. The sufficient insoluble soluble fiber from the leaves as well as roots of the plant might help reduce the intake of simple sugars. The result is a slower as well as controlled surge in blood sugar levels soon after meals. Noni juice as well as Noni tea taken at frequent intervals or even after meals might help the digestion process. Moreover, certain chemical substances present in Noni extracts have led scientists to analyze the effect of Noni berry on cholesterol. Amino acids in Noni berry decrease the effect of plaque build up in arteries as well as manage the circulation of blood. Noni berry for metabolism and heart health are the most recent in the line of health advantages from Noni.
17. Helps in Arthritis
Noni juice assists in decreasing inflamation conditions as well as fortifies bones and also ligaments. The effect of Noni in arthritis treatment is a time tested one. People struggling with arthritis can seem to be the relief if Noni juice is taken as recommended by the manufacture on a regular basis.
18. Integumentary
The noni plant was initially noted for its usefulness for treating skin ailment. Tahitians have long been utilizing the fruits, leaves and bark for treating wounds, sores, abscesses, boils, ulcers, fungal infections, ringworms and scalp infections. Additionally, noni juice can be used as hampoo since it provides shine to hair, as well as treats hair dryness and also head lice.
19. Urinary and Reproductive Benefits
Apart from its usefulness for treating urinary tract infections, normal consuming of noni juice assists in dealing with sexually transmitted diseases just like gonorrhea as well as syphilis. It may also help in the diminishing of prostate enlargements as well as uterine fibroids, reduction of menstrual pains as well as normalization of irregular menstruation.
20. Nervous System Benefits
Consuming noni juice assists relieve pains following surgeries as well as giving birth. Additionally, it offers pain alleviation for a number of neuralgias, which includes shingles. Research has revealed that consuming noni juice stimulates serotonin receptors within the brain. Serotonin is great for sleep regulation, treats migraines and also depression, and enables alleviate the signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, it reduces the tremors of Parkinson’s disease and could hinder the neurodegenerative processes in multiple sclerosis.
21. Noni reduces cholesterol
Reductions in total cholesterol and triglycerides have been seen in smokers who consumed a product that contains juice from the fruit of the noni tree every single day for a month. The research was funded by the manufacturer of the product, sold as Tahitian Noni Juice. Investigator Mian-Ying Wang, MD, states she first became enthusiastic about learning noni juice in 1999 after becoming convinced that it assisted decrease her pain from the wrist fracture.
22. Noni increases energy
Evaluation of the ergogenic potential of noni juice.
Noni fruit juice is definitely an ever more popular health food. Traditionally, noni fruit was utilized by Polynesians to fight exhaustion. Clinical tests have stated that noni juice usage enhances standard of living scores associated with physical functioning and energy levels to fight fatigue, enhance stamina as well as improve all round physical performance.
23. Noni reduces Infections and strengthen immune system
Infections are the most typical uses of noni. The extract from the leaves of noni (not the fruit that renders noni juice) displayed an average suppression of Ascaris lumbricoides (intestinal nematodes) development in the test tube. However, noni juice hasn’t been proven to enhance infections once symptoms have revealed, however, there are anecdotal reports of patients feeling better from mild infections after using noni. Decoctions of the leaves or roots of related mulberry species might have several suppressive effect on parasitic infections.
24. Noni for pain relief
Pain, painful inflammation as well as swellings are definitely the second most typical use of noni. Research in mice has revealed that extracts from the root of noni (again, not rendered from the fruit) possess some pain reducing as well as sedative action.
25. Noni Juice and Hair Loss
It is important to observe that losing of hairs is really a natural process along with anything from 100 to 300 hairs randomly shed every day. Clearly time has a role to play within the development of hair loss both for women and men. Humans are born with different quantities of soft as well as fine body hair. Over time a number of this hair becomes stronger as well as develops further characteristics just like colour as well as texture. Up to the oncoming of adolescence the hairline is seen as a a minimal spread over the forehead. For males, this continues just for some more years.
Utilizing Noni Juice regularly might help stop hair thinning, in accordance with numerous major scientific tests. Moreover, utilizing Noni products, just like shampoos as well as soaps, will help stop the problem in the source by assisting to regenerate the lost hair cells. Noni Juice might have several advantages in store for you if you suffer one of these simple situations.
26. Anti-Aging With Noni Juice
Noni juice includes a number of effective anti-oxidants. Antioxidants are extremely beneficial simply because they avoid free-radicals from damaging cells. They assist numerous body systems just like the defense, circulatory, digestive, metabolic, and nervous system. Anti-oxidants will also be very helpful in stopping skin aging as well as skin damage. They’re extremely effective anti-aging substances. Noni juice likewise helps produce xeronine within the body, that is a extremely effective agent in restoring broken cells.
27. Menstrual Problems
China Traditional medicinal practices has been recommended for hundreds of years Noni juice within the management of abnormal menstrual cycles in females, particularly when associated with lower back pain as well as pelvic area. Research has shown that in the properties of the noni for weight loss, it energizes the immune system, controlling cell function and cellular regeneration of damaged cells. It’s recently been proven to improve strength and is also thought to be attractive the management of impotence as well as sterility.
28. During Confinement
Post-childbirth, women bathe using the leaves (boiled in water) as it apparently helps reduce flatulence, while the seeds and fruit are commonly consumed during confinement.
29. Food Source
Noni is also a food source among natives of certain countries. For some, it is even a staple food.
In countries like Fiji, the fruit is consumed either raw or cooked, whereas in Myanmar, the unripened fruit is used in curries. In Malaysia, it is a part of local dishes like rojak and kerabu. Some Chinese use it in soups, believing it to have health-giving properties.
Its multitude of uses is the reason why so many scientific studies are being conducted on whether noni actually does all that users claim it does.
After all, if it has been consumed more than a thousand years, may not there be some truth to its abilities? What's more important is; how does it help those who are living?
Anyhow, caution needs to be noticed if considering ingesting any kind of noni fruit as the negative effects could be serious. Until scientific research performs in depth studies into this fruit, most health advantages will stay misguided.
Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, German chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, wild chamomile or scented mayweed, is an annual plant of the composite family Asteraceae.
Many have noted that Chamomile has a distinctly apple like taste and aroma and in fact the word Chamomile as we have come to know it comes from the ancient Greek word Kamai-melon or ground apple. In Spanish the name for Chamomile is pronounced Manzanilla or "little apple."
Chamomile is used in many traditional remedies today included but not limited to a cure for the common cold, inflammation of the skin, bronchitis, fever and the liver. It is also an appetite stimulator and is also good for gallbladder complaints. One herbal medicine guide has even claimed that you won't have nightmares if you drink chamomile tea before bed.
Chamomile was called the "Plant's Physician in the past because they claimed that it was such a good companion plant. It's been said that if you plant chamomile near a sickly or drooping plant that 9 out of ten times the plant will recover.
Chamomile Tea is one of the most popular herbs in the world and is available in many different forms. The most prominent way in which this herb is relished is as a tisane, or herbal tea, its non-caffeinated herbal concoction made by pouring hot water over the leaves, stems, and roots of plants. You can make your own chamomile tea with other plants like lavender or tulsi to vary the flavor, or drink it alone.
Chamomile has many health benefits, especially for digestion. Chamomile can be used to treat abdominal pain, inflammation of the intestine, and as a sleeping pill (sedative). Moreover, it can be used to make herbal tea, by adding 2 tablespoons of dried chamomile flowers per cup of tea. To cope with abdominal pain (inflamed), it is recommended to drink a cup of chamomile tea every morning without breakfast for 2 or 3 months.
Chamomile is a popular herbal remedy. Available in two varieties – German and Roman – chamomile is used as an anti-depressant in addition to its use as a disease alleviator.
Here are the top five health benefits of chamomile.
- Muscle relaxant and for menstrual cramps
One of the top uses of chamomile is for muscle relaxation. It can be used as a balm or a tablet. Alternately, one can brew one’s own chamomile tea. Two to three cups a day is ideal to de-stress and keep muscles relaxed. It also calms muscle spasms during menstrual cramps.
Chamomile has components that have soothing properties. Take it before going to bed and it will help you sleep better.
Chamomile soothes stomachaches and helps alleviate bowel problems. It also helps with digestion.
A cup of hot chamomile tea will help fight common colds as the herb has antibacterial properties.
Apply a paste of chamomile flowers on wounds to make them heal faster.
In addition to the above benefits, chamomile is considered to be good for preventing the escalation of diabetic ailments. Chamomile oil is a good remedy for skin ailments and also helps improve skin quality. For stomach ailments, muscle spasms, and help in falling asleep, use about one tablespoon of dried herb per cup of water. Pour boiling water over the herbs and allow to steep for about 5 minutes. Strain and enjoy.
Cautions
Some people have serious allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis) to chamomile. If you are allergic to other plants in the same family such as daisy, ragweed, aster, chrysanthemum, or marigold you should use caution when using chamomile.
Chamomile should be avoided during pregnancy because it may act as a uterine stimulant and therefore increase the chance of abortion.
People with bleeding disorders or on blood thinners should avoid chamomile, as it contains coumarin and may increase the chance of bleeding.
Bile Earth
Scientific name: Andrographis paniculata
Family: Acanthaceae
Common Name: Bile earth
Other names: The root story, sambilata, nivalembu, king of bitter, all-Tita
Location found: Malaysia, Thailand, India, Indonesia
The plant of the tiny while flowers at the axils is a herb known as Andrographis paniculata. The Malays call it Hempedu Bumi (Bile of the Earth)/Pokok Cerita (Plant of Tales) while other locals call it the antibiotic plant. Hempedu Bumi is a medicinal plant that grows in India, China and South East Asia. The name in Malay means ‘Bile of the earth’. It is very bitter and is nicknamed ‘King of Bitters’.
The Chinese call the plant Chaun xin lian. It is widely cultivated in China, Thailand, the East and West Indies and Mauritius . This medicinal plant is also popular in South East Asia and India. It is one of the ingredients used in traditional herbal formulations.
ANTI BACTERIAL AND ANTI VIRAL PROPERTIES
Research on this herb has shown its effectiveness against several strains of the HIV virus. It prevents the virus from infecting healthy T-cells and inhibits the spread of infection, while other studies show that the herb is able to fight HIV in cells even after they have been infected. This action is the same as AZT, a commonly used AIDS drug with a number of debilitating side-effects, including a low blood count.
Other reported applications include its use in cases of malaria, dysentery and herpes.
The global flu epidemic of 1918 was one of the most devastating infectious outbreaks in world history - more virulent even than the Black Death in the 14th century - killing 50 million people worldwide. No country escaped its onslaught but in India, Hempedu Bumi [Andrographis paniculata], was credited with stopping the spread of the deadly virus.
Nowadays in the West, those who use ‘alternative medicine’ turn to this plant to prevent and treat the common cold. Research has indicated its effectiveness against upper respiratory infection by increasing the body's resistance . It is also an expectorant (promotes mucus discharge from the respiratory system)
Scientists have discovered that this herb helps boost the immune system by stimulating the production of antibodies and macrophages - large white blood cells that scavenge foreign matter.
Hempedu Bumi extracts are also showing promise in relieving diarrhea associated with E.coli bacterial infections.
Bile earth leaves can be used to lower high blood pressure in addition to treating diabetes. Boil the leaves and drinks. The leaves can also treat wounds by grinding the leaves and put it on the wound. Chemical substances in the leaf can break the fat molecules that have clogged bloodstream causing blood pressure to increase. Leaf boiled water that has bitter trigger it to break down fat molecules. But it is undeniable that taste bitter, and sour so difficult to separated local natural herbal medicine. But the taste does not attract a large part of our society. They prefer to taste the sweet and salty. Of sweet and salty in excess can cause certain diseases. But if we balance the tastes are good for health.
TREATS HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE AND DIABETES
Currently scientists are focusing on the herb’s ability to prevent the formation of blood clots and prevent the re-clogging of arteries after angioplasty - a technique used to treat blocked arteries by inserting a balloon into the blood vessels which is then inflated to widen the artery.
Further research reveals that the herb activates fibrinolysis, a natural process in the body in which blood clots are dissolved. It also relaxes the smooth muscle in the walls of blood vessels and has a blood pressure-lowering effect. It performs as well as many conventional drugs but without the harmful side-effects, the herb is hypoglycemic – it can reduce blood sugar .
This herbs can be a good treatment for diabetes, high blood pressure. asthma, arteriosclerosis, chest pain due to heart disease, malaria, fever, stimulates the activity of the stomach, tonic, restore body functions, snake bites and venomous stings.
In fact, this plant is also suitable for treating insect bites. The easiest way is to take a few leaves and crush. Rub in place bitten. But it is more popular in the treatment of high blood pressure and fever. The usual method is that we need to take a few leaves and clean them. Then soak the leaves in a glass of hot water and let it heat water that is warm. After that, drink slowly. It tastes quite bitter, particularly for the first time you take it. But bear in mind, as other herbaceous plants often do not drink very much in a day. Enough to drink once a day.
Planting material can be propagated using seeds. Bile earth can be planted on the ridge with 30 cm spacing between plants in the row and 30 cm between rows. Collection of revenue shall be carried out at 8-10 weeks after planting with trees cut 5 cm from ground level. Fertilizer rates needed for sandy soils is 10 t / ha chicken manure and 500 kg / ha NPK compound fertilizer = 10:10:10. Only 250 kg / ha of semi-organic fertilizer needed for alluvial soils. Dry yield potential is in the range of 1.0-1.5 t / ha.
Generally, bitter herbs have an affinity with the heart, liver and gall bladder. Hempedu Bumi has an amazing broad range of beneficial properties. It is used in a variety of herbal traditions. Found in the Indian Pharmacopoeia, it is prominent in at least 26 Ayurvedic formulas. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Hempedu Bumi is an important "cold property" herb: it is used to rid the body of heat, as in fevers, and to dispel toxins from the body. This herb is also used in SE Asia traditional medicine.
Scientific name: Mussaenda Villosa wall
Family: Rubiaceae
Common Name: Back adap
Location found: Bushes and swamps
This plant is commonly found in villages around the bushes. It also grows wild in the lowlands and swamps, and it is easy to recognize if it is during flowering. The leaves are composed of a mixture of green leaves and white. The flowers are orange and some white. Most of the people used the leaves as "ulam" (salad).
It is used to treat fever by squeezing the leaves into the water and then this water is used for scarce (wetting) the patient's head to lower his body temperature.
This herb also used as an alternative for herbal steam bath by most elderly people. It so refreshing and removes the body odor...
Botanically known as Cosmos caudatus, it is sometimes called ‘wild cosmos’ by locals here but it is mostly refered to via its Malay name, ulam raja, which translates into ‘king vegetable’. Native to tropical America, it was first introduced to Philippines via the Spaniards, according to Plant Resources of South East Asia (PROSEA). The pinnate to pinnatipartite leaves of this plant are consumed as a leafy vegetable, usually in the raw form, but sometimes also cooked and mixed with coconut sauce and chillies. It constitutes as one of the more common raw plant leaves eaten a salad-like form, called ‘ulam’ by the local Malay community as well as those in Indonesia and Malaysia.
For the uninitiated, the leaves of ulam raja tastes raw and somewhat astringent. When crushed, the leaves emit an odour that is reminiscent of mango. It is considered as a medicinal herb which is believed to possess the ability to cleanse the blood and strengthen bones due to its high calcium content. From my research, a preliminary one which was done with my then postgraduate colleague, the dried leaves of this plants contain high amounts of potent antioxidants.
Chemical Contents
It contains 0.3% of proteins,o.4% of fats and carbohydrates, it also rich in lacsium and vitamin A. Its leaf has high antioxidant (AEAC) property, each 100 grams of the fresh leaves have the same antioxidant property to the 2400 mg of ascorbic L-acid. It contains more than 20 types of antioxidant substances that have been identified in ulam raja. The main anti oxidant substances are due to the existence of protosianidin in dimer, through hecsamer, cuersetin glycoside, chlorogenic acid, neochlorogenic acid, kripto-chlorogenic acid and (+)- catcher.
The plant itself can grow quite tall, up to 3 m tall but is an annual or a short-lived perennial herb. It produces dainty, attractive pink flowers when mature. It should not be confused with the yellow- and orange-flowered Cosmos sulphureus as both species are similar vegetatively and have some vernacular names (randa midang in West Java) in common.
This plant is rather easy to grow. It thrives in a sunny spot outdoors with well draining, fertile and moist soil. It is a big drinker and demands a constant supply of food. Under optimal conditions, it grows quickly, flowers and sets seeds very readily. Plants self seed easily and can quickly become a weed in a garden. Harvesting of leaves can commence once plants are 6 weeks old and subsequent ones can be done every 3 weeks. Regular harvesting will stimulate the production of useful and edible foliage and helps to delay flowering.
Uses
Ulam raja is used in traditional medication because it can repair the blood flow and purify the blood from toxic substances. It also can strengthen the bones. The extract chloroform from its leaf has costunolide, stigmasterol, lutein and bipyridine that cab inhibit the activity of some bacteria and fungi like candida albicans, Bacillus subtilis and also E. Choli.
Have you eaten a pomegranate? The fruit features in Greek mythology in the story of Persephone, daughter of the harvest goddess Demeter. Hades, the lord of the underworld, kidnapped the beautiful maiden. Because she ate a few pomegranate seeds before being rescued, she had to spend several months every year in the underworld with him. According to the myth, that?s when the earth was forced to endure winter.
Modern stories about pomegranates are not quite as fanciful as the myth, but there is a lot of buzz lately about the exotic fruit. How much is supported by scientific research?
Pomegranates grow wild from Iran to northern India, but they are cultivated throughout India, the Middle East, southern Europe and California. Scientists in Israel have been conducting research on the health benefits of pomegranates and pomegranate juice for years, and now others have joined in.
What are pomegranates good for? Researchers report that they are rich in antioxidants that can keep bad LDL cholesterol from oxidizing (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, May 2000). This degradation of LDL seems to be an initial step in the development of atherosclerosis. In addition, pomegranate juice, like aspirin, can help keep blood platelets from clumping together to form unwanted clots.
Does this make any difference clinically? More recent research has found that eight ounces of pomegranate juice daily for three months improved the amount of oxygen getting to the heart muscle of patients with coronary heart disease (American Journal of the College of Cardiology, Sept. 2005). Other researchers report that long-term consumption of pomegranate juice may help combat erectile dysfunction (Journal of Urology, July 2005).
Investigators are also excited about the possibility that pomegranate compounds might prevent prostate cancer or slow its growth. In mice, treatment with pomegranate extract delayed the development of tumors and improved survival (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Sept. 26, 2005). Other research reports suggest that pomegranate juice might help reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Pomegranate is one of the foods for which there is currently a health 'buzz'. Specifically, it is claimed that the polyphenols found in pomegranate juice have many health benefits, and that extracts of pomegranate can aid in anti-aging and in preventing heart disease.
Is any of this true? Are the claimed benefits of pomegranate juice or extracts actually real?
The pomegranate is the fruit of a warm climate shrub or small tree which has been cultivated in Asia and around the Mediterranean sea for centuries. It is now grown in many countries around the world where the climate allows. It is a fruit which is fairly difficult and fiddly to peel and eat, with the juicy red 'arils' or seed cases needing to be separated from the pith by hand. It is usually eaten raw.
In folk mythology, pomegranates traditionally have 365 'seeds'. However, modern studies, which have actually counted seeds in individual pomegranates grown in various countries, have shown that the number of seeds can vary from 329 to over 1000! In fact, the bigger a pomegranate is, the more seeds it is likely to have.
The juice (whether fresh or extracted) of the pomegranate contains vitamin C, folic acid, and polyphenols (antioxidants), which are the basis of the health claims for the fruit.
Polyphenols work by removing free radicals from cells, which helps to maintain the human cell function, and they also aid in wound repair, in strengthening the immune system, and by having an anti-inflammatory effect. Perhaps the most famous benefit is that these polyphenols can help to slow skin wrinkling, and so pomegranates are a popular ingredient in anti-aging remedies, both traditional and modern.
Recent research has also shown that pomegranates can also help with osteoarthritis, by slowing the deterioration of cartilage. Another study has presented evidence that pomegranate juice was effective in increasing blood flow to the heart, and so was helpful for patients with ischemic heart disease. This was a study in which test subjects drank 8 ounces of juice every day for three months. It was also shown to reduce arterial plaque, in a patient test group.
In view of these results, many commercial supplements and extracts are becoming available in concentrated or capsule form. The benefits of using pomegranate extracts as a health supplement are that the less useful ingredients of the juice are removed, including the sugar and calories.
Piper sarmentosum is an erect herb with long creeping stems. The plant is usually found as a weed in villages and places with plenty of shade (Hsuan, 1990). Leaves alternate, simple, heart shaped
and young leaves have a waxy surface. Flowers are bisexual or unisexual, in terminal or leaf opposite spikes. Fruit is small, dry, with several rounded bulges. Plant has a characteristic pungent odour (Wee, 1992; Wee and Hsuan, 1990; Hsuan, 1990; 1992).
Common names Chinese: Jia ju; Malay: Sirih tanah (Indonesia), Chabei, Kadok; Thai: cha-phloo.
This plant, known as Daun Kadok in Malaysia, is often for its cousin Piper betel leaf plant. Daun Kadok is very popular and more widely used.
It is a common plant used in traditional medicine and cooking (the subtly peppery taste of the heart-shaped and glossy leaves adds zest to omelets and other viands). A study conducted by the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM) shows that extracts from Kadok leaves have anti-oxidant properties. Piper sarmentosum is often made into drink to relieve the symptoms of malaria. The roots could be chewed to stop toothaches. A portion made from its roots is said to be diuretic. The drink has also been known to be effective in treating coughs, flu, rheumatism, pleurosy and lumbago. Young leaves are taken as ulam (condiment).
According to the World Health Organization website, 80 percent of the population in some Asian and African countries count on herbal treatments for their primary health care.
Synonyms: uva ursi, mountain cranberry, sandberry, arberry, bear's grape, kinnikinnick, mealberry, mountain box, red bearberry, sagackhomi, rockberry, upland cranberry, hogberry
Order: Ericaceae
https://LevelTiga.com/atie5572
Description: This is a small evergreen creeping shrub indigenous to Europe, Asia and the northern United States and Canada, where it grows on rocky hills. A single, long, fibrous main root sends out several prostrate or buried stems from which grow erect, branching stems up to 15cm high. The bark is dark brown or reddish. The leaves are shiny oblong, with entire margins up to 2.5cm long; the small pink to white bell-shaped flowers occur in drooping terminal racemes in groups of four to six. They give way to globular bright red berries containing several one-seeded nutlets.
Parts used: Leaves
Parts used: Leaves
Collection: The evergreen leaves may be collected throughout the year, but preferably in September or October.
Constituents: Hydroquinone glycosides (including 8% arbutin, methyl-arbutin and ericolin), Iridoids, 6% tannins, flavonoids, allantoin, resin (ursone), volatile oil, ursolic, malic and gallic acids.
Actions: Diuretic, astringent effect on lower digestive tract, urinary antiseptic, demulcent
Indications: cystitis, urethritis, dysuria, pyelitis, lithuria
Therapeutics and Pharmacology: Arctostaphylos has a marked antiseptic and astringent effect on the membranes of the urinary system, soothing, toning and strengthening them. It is specifically used where there is gravel or ulceration in the kidney or bladder. It may be used in the treatment of infections such as pyelitis urethritis and cystitis and is specifically indicated in acute catarrhal cystitis with dysuria and highly acid urine, where it helps to reduce accumulations of uric acid. With its high astringency it is used to treat some forms of enuresis and in diarrhoea. It is also used to treat dysuria. As a douche it may be helpful in vaginal ulceration and infection. Arbutin is the principal constituent leading to antibacterial activity, inhibiting the growth of Citobacter, Enterobacter, Escherichia, Klebsiella, Proteus, Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus (Kedzia) - and also by the breakdown of ericolin to a volatile component ericinol. There is thus a delayed-action effect which manifests only at the site of action. Arbutin is converted to glucose and the antiseptic hydroquinone in the kidney tubules, but only if the urine is alkaline. Although Arctostaphylos has long been described as a diuretic, in one pharmacological study it was actually shown to inhibit diuresis.
The high tannin content of Arctostaphylos has an astringent action on the lower digestive tract, and it is used in the management of diarrhoea and to reduce intestinal irritation.
Additional Comments: Uva-ursi was used in the 13th century by the Welsh Physicians of Myddfai. It was described by Clusius in 1601 and recommended for medicinal use in 1763 by Gerhard of Berlin. It appeared in the London Pharmacopoeia in 1788, though was probably in use long before. The tannin in the leaves was used in the past to tan leather in Sweden and Russia and an ash-coloured dye is said to be obtained from the plant in Scandinavia. Cattle avoid it. The leaves from A.glauca (manzanita) from California, A.polifolia from Mexico, and A.tomentosa (madrona) are also used medicinally.
Globe artichoke (
Cynara scolymus) is a species of thistle. The edible part of the plant is the base of the artichoke head in bud, harvested well before any fruit develops. In traditional European medicine, the leaves of the artichoke (not the flower buds, which are the parts commonly cooked and eaten as a vegetable) were used as a diuretic to stimulate the kidneys and as a "choleretic" to stimulate the flow of bile from the liver and gallbladder.
Cynarin, luteolin, cynardoside (luteolin-7-O-glycoside), scolymoside, and chlorogenic acid are believed to be artichoke's active constituents. The most studied component, cynarin, is concentrated in the leaves.
Artichoke has been used in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol), alcohol-induced hangover, and for its choleretic (stimulates bile release) and antioxidant properties.
This herb is often used as a vegetable and has diuretic properties, while increasing blood circulation, regenerating liver tissue and stimulating the gall bladder. Artichoke is said to reduce blood lipids, serum cholesterol, and blood sugar.
It contains numerous phenolic acids such as caffeic acid, monocaffeoylquinic acid derivatives (chlorogenic and neochlorogenic acid), dicaffeoylquinic acid derivatives (cynarin) as well as bitter sesquiterpene lactone, cynaropicrin, flavonoids (rutin and luteolin) and sesquiterpenes (caryophyllene and b-selinene).
Therapeutic uses
- Internal use
- Artichoke helps to
- increase circulation
- stimulates the secretion of bile (cholagogue)
- help treat hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis)
- fight liver damage from alcohol abuse
- treating jaundice and hepatitis
- lowers cholesterol levels
- remove excess water with its diuretic actions
- Artichoke has a determinable hepatoprotective effect which is attributed to the cynarin, chlorogenic and neochlorogenic acid found in the herb.
- The cynarin is also involved in lowering the levels of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood.
- The ingredient cyanopicrin on the other hand is a bitter and general tonic and is also involved in improving the appetite and helping with digestion.
- Eating artichoke as a vegetable has value in reducing the symptoms of a hiatus hernia.
- Italians prepare the unopened flower heads as a vegetable, with parsley, breadcrumbs, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil - steamed first and then baked.
- External use
- Aromatherapy and essential oil use
SynonymsAlcachofa, alcaucil, artichaut (French), artichiocco, artichoke, artichoke inulin, artichoke juice, Artischocke (German), artiskok, carciofo, cardo, cardo de comer, cardon d'Espagne, cardoon, chlorogenic acid, Cynara®, Cynara cardunculus, Cynara scolymus L., Cynarae folium, cynarin, cynaroside, French artichoke, garden artichoke, Gemuseartischocke (German), golden artichoke, Hekbilin A®, Hepar SL® forte, inulin, kardone, LI220, Listrocol®, luteolin, Raftiline®, scolymoside, tyosen-azami, Valverde Artischoke bei Verdauungsbeschwerden.
Note: Globe artichoke should not be mistaken for Jerusalem artichoke, which is the tuber of Helianthus tuberosa L. (a species of sunflower).
The problem of insomnia is as old as time itself and affects the lives of millions of people from just about every country causing modest irritation to some and severely affecting the quality of life for a large number of us.
Curing insomnia and getting back to night after night of natural sleep can be difficult however, for many of us, the answer lies in using time-honored traditional herbal remedies such as valerian root.
Valerian, a hardy perennial flowering plant with sweet smelling white or pink flowers, can be grown in many parts of Asia and Europe and now also grows naturally in areas of north America. Other names normally used for valerian include: garden valerian, and garden heliotrope (not related to Heliotrope - Heliotropum).
Valerian is also known by various folk names: Amantilla, Fragrant Valerian, St. George's Herb, English Valerian, Set Well, Capon's Trailer, Sets Wale, Cat's Valerian, Phu, Bloody Butcher, All-Heal, , and Vandal Root.
The prim
ary components used for medicinal purposes are the roots, rhizomes (underground stems) and stolons (horizontal stems). Normally harvested in September, the dried roots can be used to brew teas and tinctures, while the dried plant materials generally find their way into capsules or tablets.
There is reference to the use of valerian as a medicinal herb as far back as the time of ancient Greece and Rome. Hippocrates wrote of its therapeutic uses and, in the 2nd century, Galen prescribed valerian for insomnia. The 16th century saw it used to treat nervousness, trembling, headaches, and heart palpitations. In the mid-19th century, many people considered valerian a stimulant which caused a few of the same complaints it was thought to treat and held it in low regard. During World War II the English used it to relieve the stress of air raids.
Unlike many other natural herbal sleep aids, to gain the benefits of the effects of valerian it should be taken on a regular basis, with the full effects coming slowly and steadily over time.
Results will normally appear after about a month and regular use promotes natural sleep and deep relaxation. Several studies suggest valerian as far and away the best natural solution for insomnia and general sleeplessness for many individuals.
Research at the Nestlé Research Laboratories in Switzerland showed that a 450 mg dose of valerian in an aqueous extract is the optimum dose as an insomnia treatment. A larger dose ordinarily results in grogginess without any increase in effectiveness, and therefore care ought to be exercised when taking that valerian is a treatment for insomnia.
In addition, a double-blind crossover study of 128 individuals undertaken in 1982, found valerian root to not only be effective as a sedative for insomnia, but also to be helpful in increasing the overall quality of sleep in the participants.
Typically prescribed as a calming sleep aid, valerian also plays a helpful part in taking care of anxiety-related sleeping difficulties.
Unlike other commonly prescribed sleep medicines, valerian is not toxic, does not impair your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery and does not exaggerate the effects of alcohol.
It has been documented that valerian acts as a delayed stimulant for some people dependant on body chemistry. In the case of certain metabolic conditions, the effect is one of initially calming you down only to cause a surge of energy some hours later - not an effect desired by those people interested in using valerian as a nighttime sleep remedy.
Various professional herbalists recommend using fresh valerian root extract rather than an extract of dried valerian, as this is less likely to induce such a reaction.
The name Lemongrass gives away the fundamentals of the herb. It’s a grassy plant with a lemony flavor, but it tastes milder and sweeter. Lemongrass, also called fever grass, is a perennial plant with thin, long leaves that is indigenous to many Asian countries. This herb is used in various Asian cuisines as a flavoring agent due to its potent flavor. This herb is accessible from just about any ethnic shop, health food store, online marketplace, or even within the aisle of many supermarkets. It contains antibacterial, curative, and antioxidant properties that make lemongrass a great alternative for a broad spectral range of common ailments.
