Bayabas

Bayabas or Guava (Psidium guajava)

Bayabas or guava is a tropical plant, which is locally known for its edible fruit. In the
backyards of Filipino homes in the country, this plant is commonly seen, and grown
because of its many uses as fruit and as traditional remedy to treat various ailments. As
shown by many research studies, almost all of the parts of this plant have medicinal
qualities and value, and thus, making it as one of the most popular therapeutic plants in the
Philippines. 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.

The bayabas fruit bark and leaves are used as herbal medicine. Its leaves decoction is
recognized for its effectiveness to cure several ailments, including the treatment of uterine
hemorrhage, swollenness of the legs and other parts of the body, of chronic diarrhea, and
gastroenteritis, among others. The most common use of the leaves is for cleaning and
disinfecting wounds by rinsing the afflicted area with a decoction of the leaves. In the same
way, such leaves are being used to aid in the treatment of dysentery and the inflammation
of the kidneys. The bark and leaves can be used as astringent. It can also be used as a
wash for uterine and vaginal problems, and is good for ulcers. The medicinal uses of
Bayabas appear infinite, as it is also a suggested natural cure for fevers, diabetes, epilepsy,
worms, and spasms. The fruit, aside from being delicious, contains nutritional values with a
very high concentration of vitamin A and vitamin C.

Uses of Bayabas :

Antiseptic, astringent & anthelminthic
Kills bacteria, fungi and ameba
Used to treat diarrhea, nosebleeding
For Hypertension, diabetes and Asthma
Promotes menstruation

The fresh leaves are used to facilitate the healing of wounds and cuts. A decoction (boiling
in water) or infusion of fresh leaves can be used for wound cleaning to prevent infection.
Bayabas is also effective for toothaches. Note: Bayabas can cause constipation when
consumed in excess.

Preparation:

Boil one cup of Bayabas leaves in three cups of water for 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool.
Use decoction as mouthwash, gargle.
Use as wound disinfectant - wash affected areas with the decoction of leaves 2 to 3 times
a day. Fresh leaves may be applied to the wound directly for faster healing.
For toothaches, chew the leaves in your mouth.
For diarrhea, boil the chopped leaves for 15 minutes in water, and strain. Let cool, and
drink a cup every three to four hours.
To stop nosebleed, densely roll Bayabas leaves, then place in the nostril cavities.
Carrot

Carrot (Daucus carota L.)




Carrot (Karot in Filipino) is an outstanding trait of this flowering plant, which belongs to the
family ofApiaceae, is that it is self-fertile. By nature, carrot's flowers have both male and
female organs, and are usually pollinated primarily by beetles and flies. In order to facilitate
the cultivation of this plant, it is necessary to place it in an area where it can receive light. It
has a strong rate of survival, because it can withstand strong winds. However, the carrot
plant cannot bear to be exposed to salty water and soil. It is a biennial plant, which means
that it usually takes two years for it to complete its life cycle. However, it is not uncommon
for plants of this nature to complete its biological life cycle in a few months time, especially
when subjected to extreme climate conditions.

Carrot is classified as a root vegetable, which grows as tall as one (1) meter. The wild
carrot, from which the modern carrots cultivation is based, has flowers that are rounded,
which are bright white in color when it is in full bloom. Such flowers have the width of 3 to 7
centimeters, and the vegetable itself is known to have various colors, such as orange, red,
purple, yellow or white.

Carrots are extremely popular because of its numerous uses, and because of the many
vitamins and minerals that it contains. For instance, its roots are edible, whether cooked or
raw, and are used as an ingredient to soups and salad bowls. It has been found that carrot
root juice is very rich in carotene, which in turn is converted to vitamin A by our liver, and is
one of the vitamins that the body needs. Regular intake of carrot roots, in any manner,
though recommended to be taken in juice form, improves eyesight. Particular substances
that are contained in the roots have been discovered to be anti-cancer. That is the primary
reason why carrot juice has become a popular drink, as it is associated with a wealth of
health benefits. The roots of the carrot plant, when roasted, are also being used as a
substitute for coffee. Extractions from the roots, known as carotene, are also being used
commercially as a food dye. The leaves of this plant, which have high vitamin E content, are
also being used as flavorings for soup. From the derived uses of this plant, it is evident that
its roots, seeds, and leaves have particular functions which are known to be utilized by
many.

Carrots have been known to have medicinal properties that allow it to be used as an
astringent and antiseptic substance. Carrot has been used as a cleansing medicine,
because of its activities which basically helps the kidney in the removal of waste in the
body. It also aids in the stimulation of ones menstruation because of the same properties.
For children, raw carrot roots are a safe and recommended treatment for threadworms. In
the same manner, regular intake of cultivated carrot roots allows the stimulation of urine
flow. It manifests activities that help the skin, by virtue of its anti-oxidant contents.

Carrot Health Benefits:

Body cleanser, and is a medication for kidney problems
Treatment for cough and chest pains
Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic function helps solve burns, ulcer and infected wounds

Preparation & Use:

Boil with milk, and drink for cough
Poultice of carrots may be applied to infected wounds and to the chest, in case it is going
to be used to aid in an individuals chest pains
Ground seeds of the plant may be taken as tea, in order to increase urine flow



Gumamela

Gumamela (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn)



ABOUT GUMAMELA
Gumamela is a shrub that grows from one meter up to 4 meters high. Gumamela is also
known as: Hibiscus, China Rose and Shoeflower. In the Philippines, gumamela is cultivated
as an ornamental plant. The gumamela flower comes in many colors: red, yellow, orange,
white, purple, pink and other color combinations.

Gumamela leaves, usually blended with Rose Hip has long been used in the Middle East
and Okinawa as herbal tea. Today, the use of gumamela tea is gaining worldwide popularity
- including Asia. Gumamela (Hibiscus) is associated with longevity.
Gumamela as Herbal Medicine
As herbal medicine, gumamela flower, leaves and roots are used. Gumamela has the
following medicinal characteristics: expectorant, diuretic, emollient, anti-infectious, anti-
inflammatory, antipyretic, anodyne and refrigerant.
Preparation & Use of Gumamela:
There are two ways to utilize gumamela as herbal medicine. One is dried and the other is
fresh. For Dried gumamela, collect the flower, leaves and/or roots. Wash, then cut into small
pieces and sun dry. To use as decoction, boil the dried gumamela parts (1/4 cup dried
gumamela in 1 glass of water)

To make a decoction from fresh gumamela, Wash gumamela flower and/or leaves, cut into
small pieces and boil (1/3 cup in 1 glass of water), let cool and drink.
Use Gumamela as Poultice:
Poultice is the use or fresh or dried herbs that is mashed, crushed or pounded - often
heated (boiled in water to soften and heat the herb) and applied directly to the skin. A clean
cloth or gauze can be used to help the poultice stay in place.

Gumamela is used for the treatment of:

Bronchitis - as an expectorant
Coughs, sore throat
Fever - as refrigerant drink
Treats dysentery
Urinary tract infection, bladder infections
High blood pressure
Prevention of constipation
Headaches
Boils, swelling & abscesses, mumps

Application & Use of Gumamela:

Decoction is used to treat: Bronchitis, coughs, fever, dysentery, urinary and bladder
infections, high blood pressure and constipation.
Poultice is applied externally on the afflicted area. This is used to treat: headaches (on the
forehead), boils, swelling, abscesses and mumps.
Intake of gumamela (alone or mixed with papaya or papaya seeds) specially in large
quantities can be an abortifacient.


Lagundi

Lagundi (Vitex negundo)



Lagundi (scientific name: Vitex negundo) is a shrub that grows in the Philippines. It is one
of the ten herbal medicines endorsed by the Philippine Department of Health as an effective
herbal medicine with proven therapeutic value. Commonly known in the Ilocos region as
dangla, 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 and muscle relaxant
properties. Even in Japan, lagundi is becoming recognized as an effective herbal medicine,
especially since researches have shown that it contains properties that make it an
expectorant and it has been reported to function as a tonic as well. More than that, most of
the parts of the lagundi plant have medicinal value.

The roots of this shrub are also used as treatment for rheumatism, dyspepsia, boils, and
leprosy. 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. For its part, the flowers are
recommended as a cardiac tonic, as cure for liver diseases, and other internal disorders
such as diarrhea and cholera. The lagundi plant also has anti-inflammatory functions, and
its cooling effects are ideal as treatment for skin diseases such as leprosy.

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). One of Lagundi's
distinctive features is its pointed leaves with five leaflets set like a hand.

Lagundi tablets (300 mg) are available from the Department of Health's Philippine Institute
of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC) Telephone # (632) 727-6199.

Herbal Benefits of Lagundi:

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 & Use:

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.
For skin diseases or disorders, apply the decoction of leaves and roots directly on skin.
The root is specially good for treating dyspepsia, worms, boils, colic and rheumatism.

A decoction (boiling in water) of the roots and leaves of Lagundi are applied to wounds, and
used as aromatic baths for skin diseases. Boiled seeds are eaten in order to prevent the
spreading of toxins and venom from bites of poisonous animals. Juice extracted from the
flowers of Lagundi plant is taken in as an aid for disorders like fever, diarrhea, liver
disorders, and even cholera. While a decoction of the plant leaves is suggested to be taken
by individuals to help increase the flow and production of milk, as well as to induce
menstruation.
Luyang Dilaw

Luyang Dilaw - Ginger (Zingiber officinale)



Luyang Dilaw, or Ginger Root (scientific name: Zingiber officinale) belongs to the family of,
as its scientific name signifies, Zingiberaceae. The rootstocks of this erect, smooth plant are
thick, and have strong aromatic qualities. Its edible roots, tops, and even its leaves are
found to have medicinal value. The taste of luyang dilaw is distinct, brought about by the
zingerone and shogoal substances that it has, giving the plant its pungent properties. As an
herbal medicine, Luyang Dilaw has long been used as a cold, cough, fever, and sore throat
remedy.

Ginger 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 as well. In the same way, it has been found to contain potent anti-
oxidant qualities, which come from the extract and active constituents of the plant. These
uses are separate and distinct from the nutritional value of luyang dilaw.

The rhizomes of luyang dilaw is mainly associated as the main ingredient in a very popular
local beverage, which is salabat. Recent studies have shown that luyang dilaw had been
found with traces of antiemetic properties. Thus, it is now being recommended to be taken
half an hour before ones travel to avoid being travelsick and experience nausea during the
voyage. Pregnant women should take precautionary measures in taking luyang dilaw for
medicinal purposes although it has been proven that none of the plants substances triggers
adverse side effects, even when it interacts with other drugs. This herbal plant is not
recommended for expectant mothers for the very reason that there is a possibility of
inhibition of testosterones that binds the fetus, as a result of some of the properties that
luyang dilaw contains.

In India, ginger is widely used to reduce inflammation and pain with those with arthritis.
Researchers have found that ginger lowers pain-causing prostaglandin levels. They advise
taking 500 to 1,000 milligrams a day. The higher the intake of ginger, the greater the relief.

Ginger also helps prevent hair loss. Pound an inch square of ginger and extract the juice.
Massage the fresh ginger juice directly on to the scalp and leave on for at least 15 minutes
before rinsing, but for best results, leave on overnight to better stimulate the hair follicles
and induce hair growth.

Medicinal Benefits of Luyang Dilao (Ginger Root):

Relieves rheumatic pains & muscle pains
Alleviates sore throat, fever and colds
Ease nausea and vomiting
Intestinal disorders and slow digestion
Relief from tympanism and flatulence
Treat intestinal worms
Hinder diarrhea, gas pains
Relieve indigestion (dyspepsia), toothaches
Lower cholesterol levels
Aids treatment of tuberculosis

Preparation & Use:

Boil the ginger 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 of luyang-dilao directly to the skin or use dried
rhizomes with 70% alcohol then apply to afflicted areas.
For rheumatism and muscle pains, pound roasted or fresh ginger and apply to painful
areas -can be mixed with oil for easy application.
Mabolo

Mabolo (Diospyros blancoi)Velvet Apple




A member of the Ebenaceae family, mabolo is known for its value as an ornament, rather
than for its fruit. Its wood is commonly known in the Philippines as kamagong, and it is the
fruit that goes by the name of mabolo. It is an evergreen forest tree that is medium-sized,
and has an oval or conical-shaped crown. Depending on the way it was planted, a mabolo
tree may have long, straight stems or short trunks. Its leaves are oblong-shaped, which are
big and rounded but are pointed and narrow at the top. The mabolo fruit has a round,
velvety outer cover which contains the seed in a pulp. From green, it becomes light brown
and eventually, turns to magenta as this fruit berry ages and ripens. It is somewhat
unpopular because of the strong cheesy odor that it emits, once the fruit is opened. When
eaten, though, the mobolo fruit has an edible and sweet taste. The concern about its smell
may be remedied by peeling its outside cover, and storing it in the refrigerator for several
hours, so that the smell will already dissipate. Studies have shown that it is worthy to
endure the odor of the fruit, because it has been found to contain several vitamins and
nutrients. It is known to be an ideal source of calcium, vitamin B, iron, and protein. Thus,
several ways of preparing the mabolo fruit has been constantly discovered. It is served as
dessert, by mixing the fruit with lemon juice or lime. It is also used in salad preparations,
by dicing the fruit. In the same manner, it is used as ingredients in soups, where it changes
texture and becomes tough when stewed. This is ideal especially when served with ham and
other meats that have a spicy quality in it.

Mabolo is grown commercially, but at a small scale only, as it can be found along the
seashores by the locals in the Philippines. There are several uses for the mabolo plant and
fruits, because of its commercial value. It is a very useful plant, in such a way that not only
does it have ornamentation significance; but it also contains nutritional benefits and
medicinal functions as well. The parts that are being utilized for this purpose are the leaves,
bark, and the roots. Its bark is being utilized in such a manner that it is being decocted and
prepared to address skin ailments like eczema, fever and cough. Now, some of the uses
vary depending on the country. For instance, in countries in the Southeast Asia, diarrhea
and dysentery are being remedied extracting the juice of the unripe mabolo fruit. In
Bangladesh, preparations of the mabolo leaves and bark are being used as cleanser,
particularly as eyewash and also used as an antidote for snakebites. In the Guianas, besides
the already mentioned uses, mabolo preparations also function to address heart ailment and
hypertension. Spider bites, stomach aches and diabetes are also three of the other health
issues that mabolo has been found to help remedy.


Mabolo Health Benefits:

Cough, stomach pains, fever, and skin ailments are treated by preparations of the mobolo
leaves and bark.
Used as medicine for diarrhea, dysentery, heart ailments, hypertension and diabetes.

Preparation & Use:

Decoctions of the bark and leaves of mabolo are used for all the health concerns that have
been listed on the left.
Malunggay

Malunggay (Moringa oleifera Lam.)



The malunggay plant is known to different parts of the world under various names including,
but not limited to, horseradish tree, drumstick tree, and dool in some regions. It is one of the
more popular and publicized plant that is acknowledged to have nutritional, as well as,
medicinal value. It is rich in vitamins A, B & C, minerals such as iron and amino acids.
Fortunately, the plant is easily accessible as it can be found not only as part of the wild life,
but also in the backyards of many Filipino homes. Malunggay proves to be a low-
maintenance plant to grow, and is able to propagate in almost all kinds of soil. Most of the
parts of the malunggay had been proven to be useful, both for consumption and for its
preparation as a medicinal plant. Its flowers, leaves and young pods are associated and
perceived to be important because of the health benefits that it provides.

The malunggay plant, which belongs to the Moringaceae family, can grow as high as nine
meters. The bark of this tree has a gummy quality in it, and when peered closely, is
comprised of white wood that is soft in nature. It derives one of its names, horseradish, from
the taste of its roots. The malunggay leaves, which are used in certain Filipino viands, have
a very distinct shape that makes it easily recognizable. They are circular, thin sheets that
are attached to a main stalk. The malunggay flowers are white fragrances that produce the
pods, which are also used for medicinal purposes.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF MALUNGGAY

As have been mentioned earlier, there are various parts of the malunggay plant which are
being used for health reasons. For one, the leaves of this plant proved to be a good source
of calcium, iron, ascorbic acid and phosphorus. Its other parts such as the seeds, the young
pods, and the flowers have been established to benefit individuals as far as anti-oxidant,
anti-diabetic, circulatory stimulations, and such other activities that are most beneficial to
mankind, are concerned. There have been claims that malunggay can be used to lower
blood pressure, aid in pains caused by rheumatism, headaches and migraines, as well as its
being an anti-tumor plant. Malunggay is also used for purgative and anti-fungal purposes,
as well. All these prove the claim that this plant is indeed multi-purpose.

There are various ways to derive the benefits from malunggay plant. Aside from the natural
and direct means, wherein one is going to prepare the concoctions at home by picking the
necessary parts from the plant itself, one can also purchase the commercial extractions of
malunggay. There are malunggay capsules that are now available in the market, which
contain 250mg dried young leaves of the malunggay plant. In the same way, there are
commercial oil extracts of the malunggay flowers which are also in the market. Because of
the popularity that has been associated with this plant, commercial establishments have
exploited the malunggays marketable qualities. For simple preparations however, as when
the concoction would be used for uncomplicated ailments like hiccups, as a means to end
constipation, or as wound cleanser, one may eat the cooked leaves of the malunggay plant
during his last meals of the day. This should be accompanied by water, especially when the
ailment to be addressed is constipation. Now, as wound cleanser, the leaves may be
crushed and applied to the affected area directly. In all instances, cleanliness should be
observed to avoid complications.
Makabuhay

Makabuhay (Tinospora rumphii Boerl)



The makabuhay plant is a clinging vine, and the name itself suggests the primary purpose
of such plant. Makabuhay is a Filipino translation of the English term pro-life or to give life.
It is commonly known as the paliahan in the Visayas region. The plant belongs to the family
of Menispermaceae, and can grow, or rather climb, up to fifteen meters long. The
makabuhay leaves are thin sheets that are heart-shaped, and its flowers look distinct as
they only have three petals. The makabuhay plant is known for its bitter nature, and the
fruits of this plant are held in clusters, which can be as long as two centimeters. This plant
may be propagated by planting its stem, which contains a bitter sap. However, it is
important to note that makabuhay can be found in most forests all over the Philippines. It
grows in tropical areas, and it is of little wonder why it is abundant in a country like the
Philippines. The fruits of this plant have not been utilized nor established to have medicinal
values. Only the leaves and the stems of makabuhay have been found to cure particular
health concerns. For the stems, both the dried and the fresh stems are found to be
beneficial.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF MAKABUHAY PLANT

The stem of makabuhay plant is a primary ingredient used to concoct preparations that
would prevent spread of malaria, and may be used as cleanser for skin ulcer and skin
wounds. Clinical tests have shown that the decoction of this plant cures diarrhea,
indigestion and scabies. Also, it is an effective ointment for pains caused by rheumatism.
However, young children below the age of three, pregnant women, patients with typhoid
fever, those who are suffering from pneumonia, and people diagnosed with heart problems,
should not in any way take decoction that contains makabuhay, because their weak state
will be in conflict with the strong medicinal effects that it manifests.

Preparation and Use of Makabuhay

It has been mentioned earlier that this plant have several medicinal uses. Thus, the form,
preparation, and manner of intake also vary according to the purpose for which it will be
taken. For instance, when makabuhay is going to be used as an ointment for rheumatism,
its preparation is different in such a manner that the stems have to be chopped. It is
suggested that the chopped stems amount to one-half glass and such stems are supposed
to be fried for five minutes in a glass of coconut oil, under low fire. Then, the stems are to be
separated after frying, after which glass of grated candle wax should be incorporated to it.
As soon as the wax have already dissolved and cooled down, the prepared ointment can
already be applied to the body, except for the face, for three successive nights.

A similar preparation is to be observed when makabuhay is to be used to eradicate
intestinal worms, and cure fever brought about by malaria. However, instead of sauting,
the stems are supposed to be boiled. In preparing this particular decoction, 30 grams of
fresh makabuhay stems, or 25 grams of dried ones, are supposed to be boiled for twenty
minutes in three cups of water. The extracts can be derived by subjecting the boiled
preparation in a strainer, therefore removing the stems from the substance that are
necessary to address the health concern discussed. The preparation should be taken and
drank in half a cup, twice a day before the first and last meals of the day. Like any other
medicinal plant preparation, should there be complications suffered or no marked
improvements seen after administering the said preparation, treatment should be
discontinued and a physician is to be consulted.
Niyog-Niyogan

Niyog-Niyogan (Quisqualis Indica L.)



Niyog-niyogan or Rangoon Creeper is an excellent vine for outdoor gardens. This
ligneous plant, scientifically called Quisqualis indica L. It is also known as Burma or
Rangoon Creeper, Liane Vermifuge and Chinese honeysuckle. Niyog-niyogan is
perfect for covered walkways as it grows at least 2.5m long and reaches up to
8m long when it matures. This active climber, which belongs to
the combretaceae family grows best in tropical areas and demands constant
sunlight. Perhaps due to its tropical characterization that it is found in primary
and secondary forests of countries like Africa, China, Taiwan, Malaysia,
Philippines, Vietnam, Papua New Guinea and other Asian regions.

Niyog-niyogan is cultivated in greenhouses and can be naturalized in tropical
areas. This vine starts as a shrub about 3-feet tall with branches growing from all
directions. The mother shrub seizes to grow and dies after six months allowing
the creeper to rapidly climb walls, trees, and the like. The branches of niyog-
niyogan are filled with oblong-shaped leaves growing on opposite sides attached
to 6mm to 10mm long petioles. The leaves of niyog-niyogan can grow up to
15cm long and more than 5cm wide with a pointed tip. Its flowers grow in clusters
and it blossoms year-round. Its flowers open at night with five bright red petals
and gives out a distinct perfume. The young flowers of niyog-niyogan start with
white-colored petals that turn pink then red as it matures. It also bears fruits,
which can grow up to 3cm long with five angles on its sides.

The niyog-niyogan plant grows in haste during the rainy season, hence constant
pruning is especially recommended during this time. It is advised to place this
plant in spacious areas to avoid crowding with a temperature of at least 60F with
evenly moistened soil to produce flowers. Niyog-niyogan can thrive in almost all
kinds of soil and can even tolerate moderate amount of drought in cold seasons.

Benefits & Treatment of Niyog-Niyogan:

Almost all of its parts are used individually, or mixed with other ingredients, as remedy to
different ailments. In the Philippines, these are taken to rid people of parasitic worms. Some
also use these to help alleviate coughs and diarrhea. Medical experts, advice patients to
consult their doctors as improper dosing may cause hiccups. Niyog-niyogans leaves are
used to cure body pains by placing them on specific problematic areas of the body.
Compound decoctions of the leaves of niyog-niyogan are used in India to alleviate
flatulence.

Preparation & Use:

Seeds of niyog-niyogan can be taken as an anthelmintic. These are eaten raw two hours
before the patients last meal of the day. Adults may take 10 seeds while children 4 to 7
years of age may eat up to four seeds only. Children from ages 8 to 9 may take six seeds
and seven seeds may be eaten by children 10 to 12 years old.

Decoctions of its roots are also sometimes used as a remedy for rheumatism while its fruits
are used as an effective way to relieve toothaches.