Download A Study on the Medicinal Usage of Flora and Fauna

A STUDY ON THE MEDICINAL USAGE OF
FLORA AND FAUNA BY GANIFUNA
COMMINITY IN BELIZE
A Thesis Submitted to the University of Belize in Fulfillment of
BIOL 4992 - Independent Research
As Part of Bachelors of Science in Biology
Submitted by
Mr. Jeffery Santos
Under the Supervision of
Dr.Thippi Thiagarajan
Department of Science
Faculty of Science and Technology
University of Belize
ABSTRACT
This research seeks to identify and document the plants used by the Garinagu people in Belize;
their description, uses and preparation. Seven herbalists of Garinagu origin were chosen and
data was collected by personal interviews, questionnaires and expeditions. The plants were
located, photographed and specimens were taken for identification. The scientific names of these
plants were identified and arranged in a logical manner. The survey revealed that there were 44
different medicinal plants used by the Garinagu community. The Garinagu are knowledgeable
about the medicinal plants and their usage to treat simple ailments such as cold and fever to
something complex such as diabetes, high blood pressure and scabies. The Herbalists revealed
that Gengwayo and Susumba are a few specific plants used only by the Garinagu community.
Most of the elderly people still rely heavily on medicinal plants for healing their ailments. Out of
the 44 flowering plants documented, four were identified as members of the Family:
Euphorbiaceae, three were members of the Family: Cucurbitaceae, and 3 belong to the Family:
Fabaceae. Most of the plants obtained were prepared for medicinal use by either a decoction of
leaves, flowers, roots or bark. The most common parts used medicinally were the leaves from
which a decoction or poultice was prepared. The diversity of plants obtained ranged from a vine
such as the makabuhay to small trees such as the noni, to enormous trees such as the cedar. There
is a need to have a complete survey of the status of some of the medicinal plants used by the
Garinagu since some are rare; knowledge of the use and preparation may be lost and so that
proper conservation efforts can be made to protect them.
2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
None of this would have been possible without the Lord God almighty. I want to thank God for
giving me strength, courage, knowledge and guidance in conducting this research. Secondly, I
would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Thippi. He has been assisting me with this
research from the beginning to the end. I am very thankful for his academic, emotional and
physical contributions to the research. I would also like to thank Dr. Herron for assisting me.
Whenever I had queries about a plant I would ask her and she would help me to the best of her
abilities. I thank Dr. Daniels for his constant reminder in finding a research topic beforehand. His
constant reminders gave me more than enough time to clearly formulate a thesis topic.
I express my gratitude to the herbalists for taking time out of their busy schedule to assist me.
The herbalists shared their sacred information with me and I am grateful because that is
something not everyone is willing do. I would mainly like to thank Ms. Lucia Ellis for assisting
me as well. Ms. Ellis took me for a walk through her botanical area showing me medicinal plant
and explaining to me in details the preparation, traditional use of the medicinal plants found in
her area. I express my gratitude to my father and uncle respectively; Mr. Dale Santos and Mr.
David Saravia. They took time to take me to visit the herbalists. They also assisted me in
locating some of the plants. I also thank them for supporting me emotionally and physically.
I can’t conclude without thanking my fellow colleagues (Pedro Choco, Joaquin Cruz and Yakini
Arzu) for their constant encouragement. I got frustrated and tired at times but they motivated me
to continue going. They gave me constructive criticism which made me improve the quality of
my work (research).
3
Table of Contents
Title
Page
List of Figures-------------------------------------------------------------------------5
List of Tables--------------------------------------------------------------------------7
Introduction----------------------------------------------------------------------------8
Literature review----------------------------------------------------------------------9
Methodology---------------------------------------------------------------------------16
Results----------------------------------------------------------------------------------17
Discussion------------------------------------------------------------------------------50
Conclusion and Recommendations-------------------------------------------------61
Reference-------------------------------------------------------------------------------62
Appendix-------------------------------------------------------------------------------64
4
LIST OF FIGURES
Plate
Common and Scientific Name
1A--------------------------------------------------------------Epazote (Dysphania ambrosioides)
1B--------------------------------------------------------------Callaloo (Amaranthus cruentus)
1C--------------------------------------------------------------Jackass Bitters (Neurolaena lobata)
1D--------------------------------------------------------------Marigold (Tagetes erecta)
2A--------------------------------------------------------------Sour Sop (Annona muricata)
2B--------------------------------------------------------------Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
2C--------------------------------------------------------------Annatto (Bixa orellana)
2D--------------------------------------------------------------Gumbo Limbo (Bursera simaruba)
3A--------------------------------------------------------------Scoggineal (Opuntia cochenillifera)
3B--------------------------------------------------------------Trumpet (Cecropia peltata)
3C--------------------------------------------------------------Oyster Plant (Tradasiantia spathacen)
3D--------------------------------------------------------------Cucumbersito (Coccinia grandis)
4A--------------------------------------------------------------Cerasee (Momordica charantia)
4B--------------------------------------------------------------Tree of Life (Kalanchoe pinnata)
4C--------------------------------------------------------------Stone Crusher (Phyllanthus amarus)
4D--------------------------------------------------------------Castor oil Plant (Ricinus communis)
5A--------------------------------------------------------------Cancer Bush (Acalypha arvensis)
5B--------------------------------------------------------------Physic Nut (Jatropha curcas)
5C--------------------------------------------------------------Yama Bush (Senna occidentalis)
5D--------------------------------------------------------------Piss-a-bed (Senna alata)
6A--------------------------------------------------------------Madre de Cacao (Gliricidia sepium)
5
6B--------------------------------------------------------------Mint (Mentha spicata)
6C--------------------------------------------------------------Bissy (Cola acuminata)
6D-------------------------------------------------------------Neem (Azadirachta indica)
7A-------------------------------------------------------------Cedar (Cedrela odorata)
7B-------------------------------------------------------------Makabuhay (Tinospora cordifolia)
7C-------------------------------------------------------------Moringa (Moringa oleifera)
7D-------------------------------------------------------------Bread Fruit (Artocarpus altilis)
8A-------------------------------------------------------------All Spice (Pimenta dioica)
8B-------------------------------------------------------------Bilimbi (Averrhoa bilimbi)
8C-------------------------------------------------------------Cow Foot (Piper auritum)
8D-------------------------------------------------------------Jointed Wood (Piper amalago)
9A-------------------------------------------------------------Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon schoenanthus)
9B-------------------------------------------------------------Llanten (Plantago major)
9C-------------------------------------------------------------Gengwayo (Securidaca lanceolata)
9D-------------------------------------------------------------Noni (Morinda citrifolia)
10A-----------------------------------------------------------Polly Red-Head (Hamelia patens)
10B-----------------------------------------------------------Ruda (Ruta chalipensia)
10C-----------------------------------------------------------China Root (Smilax cordifolia)
10D-----------------------------------------------------------Pain Killer (Datura metel)
11A-----------------------------------------------------------Susumba (Solanum rudepannum)
11B-----------------------------------------------------------Vervine (Stachytarpheta cayennensis)
11C-----------------------------------------------------------Wild Sage (Lantana camara)
11D-----------------------------------------------------------Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis mill)
Figure 1: Bar graph showing the parts of medicinal plants used more frequently
6
Figure 2: Pie chart showing the common preparations of medicinal plants
Figure 3: Line graph showing the most common medicinal uses
Figure 4: Pie chart showing the different plant types used within the Garifuna community
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: showing the number of specimens that belong to each clade
Table 2: showing medicinal species used in the Garifuna community
Table 3: showing the number of species within a family
7
CHAPTER I – INTRODUCTION
Belize is a relatively small country and has an amazing variety of flora and fauna living
in a wide range of habitats. Belize is located in Central America and it is bordered to the north by
Mexico, to the south and west by Guatemala and to the east by the Caribbean Sea. It is a diverse
country with various cultures and languages. Belize also has the lowest population density in
Central America with 35 people per square mile or 14 people per square kilometers. Belize is
also known for its extreme biodiversity and distinctive ecosystems. Belize’s population is
approximately 314,522 since July 2010; however it has increased since then. The area of Belize
is 8,867 square miles and the capital is Belmopan City. Belize’s coastline is 320 miles and the
highest point is Doyle's Delight at 3,805 feet (1,160 m).
Most of Belize is undeveloped and is forested with hardwoods. Belize is a part of the
Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot and it has many jungles, wildlife reserves, a large variety of
different species of flora and fauna and the largest cave system in Central America. Some species
of Belize include the black orchid, the mahogany tree, the toucan and tapirs (Briney, 2015).
The country's savannahs and lowlands are home to rare waterfowl, its forests provide a
refuge for tapirs, pumas and numerous tropical birds, while the mountainous regions ensure a
niche for elusive jaguars and other beautiful cats. There are approximately 145 species of
mammals living in Belize. There are 139 species of reptiles and amphibians that have so far been
identified in Belize, including 56 plus species of snakes. Belize is also a birder’s paradise, with
over 500 species of rare and beautiful birds thriving in its many distinct habitats (The Wildlife of
Belize, 2007).
Belize has a very high level of terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity. Belize hosts more than
150 spp. of mammals, 540 spp. of birds, 151 spp. of amphibians and reptiles, nearly 600 spp. of
freshwater and marine fishes and 3,408 spp. of vascular plant. The country is unique, not only in
the total number of species present, but also in the vast array of ecotypes and their species
richness. This wealth of biological diversity, coupled with a rich cultural heritage has made
Belize a very popular tourist destination, providing significant economic benefits for the nation
(BERDS, 2005).
8
Belize has an interesting and diverse vegetation profile. With over 4,000 flowering
plants, some 250 species of orchids, and 700 or so different trees, Belize is an exciting country
for anyone interested in the Plant Kingdom (Wood, 1999).
According to the 2010 Belize Population Census, Belize demographics as reflected by
ethnicity exhibited the following trends: Latino, Creole, Maya, Garifuna and Mennonite
remained the five largest ethnic groups. Latinos are the largest group, with its share of the total
population growing from 49% to 50%. Creoles accounted for 21%, down from 25%. Maya and
Garifuna made up 10% and 4.6% respectively. The number of Garifunas and East Indians
remained at their 2000 levels. About 19 thousand persons or 6% of the population claimed to be
of mixed ethnic origin (Belize Demographics And Population Data, 2012).
The first people to develop Belize were the Maya around 1500 B.C.E. As shown in
archeological records, they established a number of settlements there. These include Caracol,
Lamanai and Lubaantun. In 1840, Belize became a "Colony of British Honduras" and in 1862, it
became a crown colony. In 1973, the region's name was changed from British Honduras to
Belize and on September 21, 1981, full independence was achieved (Briney, 2015).
Alternative medicine has a very long tradition in Belize due to its location as the seat of
the ancient Maya Civilization.
Before modern medicine developed laboratory drugs, our ancestors all over the world
used herbs and weeds for health. In many parts of the world today, they are the only treatment
available and sometimes work better than manufactured drugs. Many plants exhibit the "Doctrine
of Signatures" which is a concept that there is some physical characteristic about a plant that
signals what it could be used for on the physical body.
The Garifuna history has been one of constant migration and intermarriage. Oral history
records that the Garifuna ancestors, the Arawak Indians, migrated from Guyana, Surinam and
Venezuela around long before the arrival of the Europeans to the New World and settled in the
Greater Antilles Islands in the Caribbean. A second ancestor, the Carib Indians, also migrated
from their settlements in the Orinoco Delta in 1220 A.D. and seized the Lesser Antilles (Palacio,
1994). The Carib and Arawak then intermarried and engendered the Island Carib, who settled
predominantly on Saint Vincent Island. Then in 1635, when two Spanish ships shipwrecked in
the area, carrying hundreds of indentured Nigerians, many of the surviving slaves were able to
9
seek refuge on the island among the Carib-Arawak population. This event further added to the
genetic mergence of St. Vincent's ethnic population.
Traditional Garifuna communities are mainly found along the Caribbean Coast of Belize,
Honduras and Nicaragua. Out of an estimated 500,000 Garinagu world-wide, there are today
about 15,000 Garinagu in Belize (about 7 % of the total population) (Lambey, 2011). Garinagu
are a resilient tribal people who have survived many years of extreme hardships. As the values of
society change, Garinagu, however, find it challenging to preserve and pass on their unique
cultural heritage to future generations. Music, dance and story-telling, together with their
extraordinary language, traditional foods, clothing, art and handicrafts and natural medicines, all
come together to form their cultural identity.
Barranco, Seine bight, Gorge town, Hopkins, Dangriga, Punta Gorda, Libertad, San
Pedro, Belmopan and Belize City are the main Garifuna communities in Belize. There are three
healing celebrations and rituals in the Garifuna tradition: the Chugu, Lemesi, and Dugu. The
Chugu is the offering of food to the dead. If the ancestors have requested drums, then drums are
played after the table has been cleared. There are two types of Lemesi. One is the official taking
off of the mourning clothes after one year and the other is a memorial in church as requested by
the ancestors.
The most serious of the healing rites is the dugu. Whenever there is a rift in the Garifuna
family relationship, the effects are felt among the living and the dead. If the living are unable or
unwilling to fix the problem, then the ancestors will intervene. The dugu is an opportunity for
family throughout Belize and beyond to come together to heal their relationships at the request of
the ancestors. The ceremony that lasts for 6 to 9 days takes over a year to plan (Cayetano, 1974).
There are some animals that are important to the Garifuna culture because of their skin.
These animals are goat, sheep and deer. The skins of these animals are used to make their drums
used in the ritual healing (dugu).
The ceremony consists of drumming, singing, dancing, eating, and drinking. Before the
actual ceremony begins there are four days of preparatory rites. Fishermen leave at dawn to catch
food as an offering to the ancestors and to feed the relatives who will attend the ceremony. In
addition to food and drink offerings, the ceremony consists of drumming, singing, and dancing to
repair a damaged relationship between the ancestors and the living.
10
There are some efforts by members of Garifuna community to document the medicinal
use of plants in the recent years (Ms. Lucia Ellis). However there is a lack of a comprehensive
and scientific approach on this subject. Due to changing life style, extreme secrecy of traditional
healers and negligence of youngsters, the practice and dependence of ethnic societies in folk
medicines is in rapid decline globally, therefore, ethnobotanical exploitation and documentation
of indigenous knowledge about the usefulness of such a vast pool of genetic resources is
deliberately needed. This research attempts to document use of flora and fauna by the Garifuna
community in the Stann Creek district.
11
CHAPTER II – LITERATURE REVIEW
The Rig-Veda written during 4500 BC to 1600 BC is believed to be the oldest repository
of human knowledge about medicinal usages of plants in Indian subcontinent. According to
World Health Organization, about 80% of the world’s population, especially in the rural areas
depends on herbal medicine for their healthcare needs. Traditional Healing (TH) is the oldest
form of structured medicine, and was originally an integral part of semi-nomadic and agricultural
tribal societies; although archaeological evidence for its existence dates back to only around
6000 B.P., its origins probably date back to well before the end of the last Ice Age. There were
and still are differences between the principles and philosophy of TH, although there are also
many fundamental similarities that arise from the profound knowledge of natural laws, and the
understanding of how these influence living things, that are shared by all Traditional Healers
(THs). THs are found in most societies and are often part of a local community, culture and
tradition, and they continue to have high social standing in many places, exerting influence on
local health practices. Traditional (magic) healing is a belief that fascinates and intrigues, and has
always held a position of considerable importance in the daily events of life (Montesano et al.,
2012).
Plants are highly important to the medicinal world. Importance of medicinal plants
becomes more patent at the present time in developing countries. A research was done on Hyptis
verticillatais one of the most abundant of the Hyptis species. Hyptis verticillata is commonly
called John Charles or Shkot-kWai in Belize. It has a wide range of traditional uses in countries
such as Mexico, Colombia, and Jamaica. Its traditional uses range from internal uses for
conditions affecting the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract and gynaecological system to
external uses for conditions affecting the skin and musculoskeletal system. Traditional
preparations mostly use aerial parts of the plant, which may include the leaf and stem or just the
leaf. The use of whole plants or the root alone is also used in some countries. Hyptis verticillata
is used to treat ailments such as coughs, colds, mucus conditions, asthma onset, fever, tonsillitis,
uterine fibroids, bronchitis and gastrointestinal problems (Picking et al., 2013).
A research conducted by Singh and Tiwari (2012) in Western Nepal’s Terai forest of
Rupandehi district and adjoining areas showed that the ethnic people residing in different
12
geographical belts of Nepal depended on wild plants to meet their basic requirements and various
ethnic communities have their own pool of secret ethnomedicinal and ethno-pharmacological
knowledge about the plants available in their surroundings,. Besides other usages of plants the
practice of oral tradition for healthcare management of human and domesticated animals using
herbal medicines is still prevalent among the inhabitants of the area. They have enormous
knowledge about medicinal uses of plants and this knowledge is mostly undocumented and
transmitted orally from generation to generation. After the research was conducted it can be
stated that out of 66 medicinal plants recorded from the study area, the highest number of plants
belongs to herb (53%) followed by tree, shrubs and climber. Higher uses of herbs for medicinal
purposes may be due to easy availability and high effectiveness in the treatment of ailments in
comparison to other growth forms. Almost every plant parts are used for the medication either
singly or in combination with other plants. Entire plant is used in the majority of cases followed
by leaf, root and bark. Plant parts used as medicine is collected by healer themselves from
natural resources. Various plant parts are collected in different seasons at different stage of
maturity and are dried in shade and stored in dry places away from direct sunlight for their use
during off season/unavailability. As far as mode of use and administrations are concerned
majority of the plants are used in form of juice, followed by decoction. Majority of the medicinal
formulations are administrated orally in ailment categories other than dermatological. In
dermatological problems plants are administrated topically as well as orally (Singh et al., 2012).
Plants are used in traditional communities for several types of applications and are found
among the plethora of plant resources available in the Cerrado (Brazilian savanna), particularly
those used for medicinal purposes. Some of the many medicinal species of the Cerrado are
important due to their economic value. However, not all species receive the same attention. In
general, people recognize different properties and qualities of particular plant species because
different species satisfy different needs. In this sense, the genus Stryphnodendron Mart.
(“barbatimão”) is known for its numerous uses: the extracts from the stem bark are rich in
tannins and are used for curing various diseases, including leukorrhea, diarrhea, inflammatory
processes, hemorrhages, hemorrhoids, conjunctivitis, malaria, fever, liver disorders, gonorrhea
and urethritis, and wound healing. The medicinal uses recognized for this genus are largely
13
derived from biological activity studies, and not through ethnobotanical studies (Feitosa et al.
2013)
Gender is one of the main variables that influence local knowledge distribution. It acts at
two levels. The first is a consequence of culturally assigned roles for men and women and is
known as “gendered knowledge” (Orijel et al. 2013). It is observed that the knowledge of the
uses of “barbatimão” does not follow the trend found in many other studies. Similar to gender,
the age factor did not affect the knowledge of the use of “barbatimão” in the community (Feitosa
et al., 2013).
It has been proposed that the sensorial appearance of plants, that is, the set of its
characteristics of flavor, aroma, color, texture, shape etc., could act as a link between socially
developed ideas and the plant world, influencing the people’s behavior in terms of group
strategies for exploring habitats and the use of resources. This is why sensorial stimuli play an
important role in diet selection, medicine, religion, memory, sexuality, the relationship between
human groups and their natural environment, especially in groups which are closely associated
with their natural surroundings. Previous work on this subject in Subantarctic Patagonia indicate
that species with highest consensus of use have the most agreement in terms of their
characteristic of taste and smell. A specific study of gastrointestinal Patagonian forest plants
found that stomach complaints are treated with delicate and sweet plants, that hepatic complaints
are generally treated with bitter ones, and that plants used as laxatives are generally spicy.
Moreover, we found that the intensity of aroma and/or flavor perceived by people can influence
the dosage and method of administration of the herbal preparation (Morales and Ladio, 2014).
A research was done in Ethiopia by d’Avigdor et al., (2014) were it was described as one
of the most unusual and important sources of biodiversity in the world, however it is perilously
close to losing much of this rich diversity due to deforestation, land degradation, lack of
documentation of species in some areas as well as of traditional cultural knowledge, and
potential acculturation. Intertwined with the irretrievable loss of important species of animals
and plants is the risk of loss of traditional herbal medicine knowledge. An estimated 80 to 90 per
cent of Ethiopians use herbal medicine as a primary form of health care. Despite significant
recent improvements in modern health care, many rural communities continue to have limited
access to modern health care due to availability and affordability. It is widely acknowledged that
14
the wisdom of both professional and lay healers in applying traditional medicine to support
health and manage illness may be lost to future generations unless urgent efforts are made to
document and disseminate the knowledge and to engage the younger generation who may no
longer be interested in learning the traditional methods. Therefore Ethiopians, particularly those
in rural areas, face an uncertain future in regard to ready access to affordable modern medical
services and access to their traditional remedies (d’Avigdor et al., 2014).
Since 1982, the TRAMIL program (Program of Applied Research to Popular Medicine in
the Caribbean) has been documenting medicinal plants and their uses throughout the countries of
the Caribbean Basin and taking into account that medicinal resource selection and use are
influenced by culture (indigenous and/or introduced), regional resource availability and time of
residence, the present study objective was to determine if indigenous populations, given their
experience exploiting native floral diversity, use a larger number of native plants than exotics,
and if differences exist between Caribbean Basin Afro-caribbean, Amerindian and Mestizo
communities in terms of their knowledge and use of medicinal plant resources. The 1,753 plant
records generated from the surveys of the nine communities included in the analysis covered 389
species from 300 genera and 98 families. Among the species total, 247 were used in the
Amerindian communities, 148 in the Afro-caribbean communities and 107 in the Mestizo
communities. The surveyed Amerindian communities used 78 plant families, the Afrocaribbeans used 64 and the Mestizos used 56 (Torres-Avilez et al., 2014).
The knowledge of medicinal plants is dying out along with the older generation so it is
important that this information be documented. Most people spend a lot of money on medicine
when they might have the cure, remedy or treatment in their own surrounding area. This
knowledge about medicinal plants has come too far to just die out so easily. Loosing this
knowledge could affect many areas of Belize since Belize is a developing country and does not
have a proper research facility where medicine can be manufactured/produced or discovered.
The demand for medicinal plants is likely to remain buoyant in the future. In conclusion,
medicinal plants play an important role in providing primary health care to the rural communities
in Belize and other developing country. Thus it is important to maintain our biodiversity
especially our flora and fauna.
15
CHAPTER III – METHODOLOGY
This Research was conducted from January to May 2015 in Belize. This research was mostly
centered within the Stann Creek district. Seven herbalist of Garifuna origin were chosen and data
was collected by personal interviews, questionnaires and expeditions. The plants were located,
photographed and specimens were taken for identification. After identifying the specimens they
were described and compiled according to family. A questionnaire (appendix 1) was
administered among the herbalist and the results from the survey was summarized and presented.
16
CHAPTER IV- RESULTS
Common Name/s: Epazote
Scientific Name: DYSPHANIA AMBROSIOIDES (Plate 1-A)
Plant Family: AMARANTHACEAE
Description: Epazote is an easy growing annual herb; prefers well-draining, sandy soil and full
sunlight. It grows in the fields, along the roadside as weedy invasive plant. It reaches about 60 to
100 cm in height featuring small pointed leaves with serrated margins. Tiny yellow-green
flowers appear in a cluster as in amaranth, developing into numerous tiny black seeds.
Traditional Use/s: Epazote is used as an intestinal cleaner. It is used to clean/remove “worms”
from the intestine. It is also used for the elimination of intestinal gas and inducing proper
digestion.
Preparation: The leaves of the plant are crushed until a juice appears. The leaves are then
strained and squeezed. The juice is given to the individual for 3 consecutive mornings before
eating. Castrol oil is also given to the individual on the fourth day. This plant is added to the
beans. This will allow the individual to experience proper digestion and release gas frequently.
The leaves can also be eaten raw. Eating the leaves raw will still aid in the following ailments.
Common Name/s: Callaloo
Scientific Name: AMARANTHUS CRUENTUS (Plate 1-B)
Plant Family: AMARANTHACEAE
Description: Callaloo (Amaranthus spp) is consumed in the Caribbean and in other areas of the
tropics. The amaranth crop is grown extensively as a green leafy vegetable, or as spinach. The
leaves are a good source of fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals. Vegetable amaranths are
upright branching annuals with broad leaves. The crop is tolerant to nematodes, fungal and
bacterial wilt factors that make it a suitable crop for limited resource and beginning farmers.
Traditional Use/s: It is used to build up blood.
Preparation: The leaves from the Callaloo plant are picked, washed and cut up. The chopped
leaves are placed in a frying pan. The leaves are fried in a small amount of oil. Black pepper and
salt are usually added to the leaves about 7 minutes into frying. The leaves are delicious and
healthy after frying them.
17
Plate 1
A
B
Epazote (A)
Callaloo (A)
DYSPHANIA AMBROSIOIDES
AMARANTHUS CRUENTUS
D
Jackass Bitters (A)
NEUROLAENA LOBATA
18
Marigold (A)
TAGETES ERECTA
Common Name/s: Jackass Bitters (Tres Puntas)
Scientific Name: NEUROLAENA LOBATA (Plate 1-C)
Plant Family: ASTERACEAE
Description: It is found everywhere in Southern Belize in roadsides, fields and pastures. They
grow to about 3 meters tall and they are characterized by their alternate tri-lobed leaves. They
have distinctive, bright yellow flowers which grow in compact groups at the end of the branches
and all parts of the plant are bitter tasting.
Traditional Use/s: The leaves of Jackass Bitters is used to cleanse the blood and treat malaria,
fungus, ringworm, amoebas, and intestinal parasites.
Preparation: Six to eight leaves is boiled in a half gallon of water and drank as a tea during the
morning for three to four days. The tea is extremely bitter but it will treat the listed ailments.
Ringworm and fungus are treated externally by crushing several leaves into a paste and then
rubbing it on the affected area.
Common Name/s: Marigold
Scientific Name: TAGETES ERECTA (Plate 1-D)
Plant Family: ASTERACEAE
Description: Marigold flowers are made up of multiple layers of overlapping petals with the
petals getting smaller and more condensed towards the flowers center, similar to that of a
carnation. The blooms may be single or double colored and can be varying hues of yellow,
orange, red and maroon.
Traditional Use/s: The plant is used for ailment such as costiveness, pain and swelling caused
by the sting of a wasp or bee.
Preparation: A fresh Marigold flower is picked and rubbed on the area stung by bees or wasp to
decrease pain and swelling. The leaves of the Marigold is picked and chewed. When chewed at
first it has a sticky sweetness, followed by a powerful taste, of a salty nature. This will help with
ailment such as costiveness.
19
Common Name/s: Sour Sop
Scientific Name: ANNONA MURICATA (Plate 2-A)
Plant Family: ANNONACEAE
Description: Sour-sop trees are bushy and low, about 7.5-9m tall. Young branchlet are rustyhairy. The smooth, glossy, dark green leaves are oblong to elliptical and pointed at both ends.
Sour-sop is a small, upright, perennial tree, Flower stalks are 2 mm to 5 mm long and woody.
They appear opposite from the leaves or as an extra from near the leaf stalk, each with one or
two flowers, Petals are thick and yellowish. The receptacle is conical and hairy. Stamens 4.5 mm
long and narrowly wedge-shaped. The connective-tip terminate abruptly and anther hollows are
unequal. Sepals are quite thick and do not overlap. Carpels are linear and basally growing from
one base. The ovaries are covered with dense reddish brown hairs, 1-ovuled, style short and
stigma truncate.
Traditional Use/s: It is used to reduce high blood pressure and to induce sleep.
Preparation: Any desired amount of leaves are plucked from the tree and put in a small pot of
water to boil. The leaves should be washed before boiling takes place. The tea from the leaves
will relax the body from worries. It will allow a person to sleep without any problems on their
mind (it will cause the person to feel relax). The tea will also reduce high blood pressure.
Common Name/s: Snake Plant (Mother in law’s tongue)
Scientific Name: SANSEVIERIA TRIFASCIATA (Plate 2-B)
Plant Family: ASPARAGACEAE
Description: Snake plant is a carefree, tough succulent that grows almost anywhere. Its leathery
sword-shape leaves are usually marbled with gray green and may be edged with yellow or white.
Although snake plant tolerates low light, it grows better in medium or bright light. It grows well
in temperatures from 60 to 85 degrees F. It is sometimes called mother-in-law's tongue. The
color pattern on this stem-less plant resembles the skin of a snake.
Traditional Use/s: It is used to treat rashes and skin sores
Preparation: Several leaves from the plant are used to make a bath. The leaves are cut into
smaller pieces and put in a pot of water to boil for 10 to 15 minutes. The decoction from the
leaves are then used as a wash to treat sores and rashes.
20
Plate 2
A
B
Sour Sop (A)
Snake Plant (A)
ANNONA MURICATA
SANSEVIERIA TRIFASCIATA
D
Annatto (A)
BIXA ORELLANA
21
Gumbo Limbo (A)
BURSERA SIMARUBA
Common Name/s: Annato
Scientific Name: BIXA ORELLANA (Plate 2-C)
Plant Family: BIXACEAE
Description: Annatto, which grows as a shrub or a small tree, is known by many other common
names including lipstick plant and shambu. Annatto is shade-intolerant and must have
disturbance or a broken forest canopy to become established. If given ample space, annatto
generally branches several times near the ground and develops a dense, spreading crown.
The plant roots firmly with a thick taproot and finer laterals. The alternate leaves have long
petioles, thin ovate blades with long-pointed tips.
Traditional Use/s: The shoots and young leaves are used for feverish infections including
gonorrhea, dysentery and hepatitis.
Preparation: The shoots and young leaves are harvested and washed. After washing the leaves
they are boiled in water for 15 to 20 minutes. The amount of water used in boiling are based on
the amount of young leaves and shoot used. The tea is then strained and drank. This tea will help
relief an individual from feverish infections and gonorrhea, dysentery and hepatitis.
Common Name/s: Gumbo Limbo
Scientific Name: BURSERA SIMARUBA (Plate 2-D)
Plant Family: BURSERACEAE
Description: Gumbo limbo is one of the fastest growing native trees. The bark of the Gumbo
Limbo tree is shiny dark red. The leaves are alternate, odd-pinnate, 6 to 14 inches long with 3 to
9 leaflets. The leaflets mature to a dark green with a paler underside. The blade is asymmetrically
oblong to ovate with a smooth and sometimes slightly wavy margin. It is abruptly short-pointed
at the apex and broad and oblique at the base. The leaves are spirally arranged and pinnate with
7-11 leaflets, each leaflet broad ovate, 4–10 cm long and 2–5 cm broad. The gumbo-limbo is
sometimes referred to as the Tourist Tree because the tree's bark is red and peeling, like the skin
of sun-burnt tourists.
Traditional Use/s: This plant is used to treat internal infections, urinary tract conditions and flu.
Preparation: A piece of the Gumbo Limbo bark is extracted and allowed to dry for 7 days. After
the bark is properly dried it is boiled for 15 minutes in water. The amount of water can vary
depending on the purpose or quantity desired. The end product is a tea which can be drank 2 or 3
times a day to treat all of the ailments (internal infections, urinary tract conditions and flu). The
individual will experience progressive relief.
22
Common Name/s: Scoggineal
Scientific Name: OPUNTIA COCHENILLIFERA (Plate 3-A)
Plant Family: CACTACEAE
Description: The Scoggineal is a cactus that grows about 3 m in height. It has large pads with
thorns. It produces flowers that are red and fruits that are red-pink. The pads are green and it
produces a clear jelly like substance.
Traditional Use/s: The Scoggineal tree is used for relieving headaches and fevers
Preparation: The pad from the Scoggineal tree is cut in half and tied around the head with a
cloth or strap. One of the jelly side of the pad should be placed on the fore head and the other
side of the pad should be place at the back of the head. A cloth should be tied around the head so
as to keep them in position. Individuals using these pads usually sleep with them.
Common Name/s: Trumpet Tree
Scientific Name: CECROPIA PELTATA (Plate 3-B)
Plant Family: CECROPIACEAE
Description: The genus is easily identified by its large, circular, palmately lobed leaves, about
30–40 cm in diameter and deeply divided into 7-11 lobes. The trees consist of very few branches,
usually with candelabrum-like branching system. Branch development is often initiated in
seedlings. When the branches are cut, they release a watery, often mucilaginous sap which turns
black when it is exposed to the air. To prevent inhabitation by ants and occupation and damage
by herbivorous insect larvae, the terminal buds and upper internodes are filled with mucilage.
Traditional Use/s: The leaves of the trumpet tree are used for treating high blood pressure,
diabetes, internal infection and reducing swelling. The leaves from the tree is also used for
weight loss.
Preparation: One or two leaves, depending on the size should be soaked in hot water for
approximately 20-25 minutes. It will then form a tea. The tea should be drunk once or twice a
day depending on the cup size. Preferably two times a day. One in the morning and one in the
evening. This tea will lower the blood pressure and at the same time treat diabetes. The tea also
treats/eliminates internal infection. The leaves are boiled for 20 minutes and used as a bath after
cooled. The bath will reduce/help to reduce the swelling. The tea obtained from boiling the
leaves is very good for overweight individuals. Individuals who drink the tea will notice a
reduction in weight after 2-3 months of consumption.
23
Plate 3
A
Scoggineal (A)
OPUNTIA COCHENILLIFERA
Oyster Plant (A)
TRADASIANTIA SPATHACEA
24
Trumpet (A)
CECROPIA PELTATA
Cucumbersito (small cucumber) (A)
COCCINIA GRANDIS
Common Name/s: Oyster Plant
Scientific Name: TRADASIANTIA SPATHACEN (Plate 3-C)
Plant Family: COMMELINACEAE
Description: Oyster plant is a short-stemmed, tender foliage plant that makes attractive, small,
dense, spreading clumps. It forms a solid groundcover of upright leaves. The six- to eight-inchlong, sword-shaped leaves are green above and purplish below. The unusual flowers, borne down
among the leaves, appear as clusters of tiny white flowers nestled within two boat-shaped,
purplish bracts. They are not noticeable unless you look closely.
Traditional Use/s: It is used to treat colds, sore throat, whooping cough, nasal bleeding,
bacillary dysentery, blood in the stools, reduce inflammations and swellings.
Preparation: The flowers and leaves are boiled in water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. The
amount of water used depends on the amount of decoction desired. The decoction of the flowers
and leaves is recommended for colds, sore throat, whooping cough, nasal bleeding, bacillary
dysentery and blood in the stools. A poultice from crushed leaves are applied externally to
reduce inflammations or swellings. A poultice is a soft moist mass, often heated and medicated,
that is spread on cloth over the skin to treat an aching, inflamed, or painful part of the body. It
can be used on wounds such as cuts.
Common Name/s: Cucumbersito (small cucumber, ivy gourd)
Scientific Name: COCCINIA GRANDIS (Plate 3-D)
Plant Family: CUCURBITACEAE
Description: Cucumbersito is a vine that climbs nearby object as it grows. It also produces small
green fruit that look like small cucumber. Cucumbersito is a tropical plant in the Cucurbitaceae
family. It is an aggressive climbing vine that can spread quickly over trees, shrubs, and fences.
The flower is large and white and contains five long, tubular petals.
Traditional Use/s: Is used to treat inflammation, asthma, cardiovascular disease (heart disease),
and high cholesterol.
Preparation: The entire plant (root, fruit and leaves) is boiled in water for 10 minutes. The tea
should be allowed to cool. The decoction from the entire plant is drank to treat the following
ailments. The decoction is drank 2 times a day for 2 weeks. It is recommended that the individual
visit a doctor to check the progressive status of the asthma and cardiovascular disease. This
decoction will lower the cholesterol and inflammation.
25
Common Name/s: Cerasee
Scientific Name: MOMORDICA CHARANTIA (Plate 4-A)
Plant Family: CUCURBITACEAE
Description: This herbaceous, tendril-bearing vine grows to 5 m. It bears simple, alternate leaves
4–12 cm across, with three to seven deeply separated lobes. Each plant bears separate yellow
male and female flowers. The fruit has a distinct warty exterior and an oblong shape. It is hollow
in cross-section, with a relatively thin layer of flesh surrounding a central seed cavity filled with
large, flat seeds and pith. The fruit is green but as it ripens it eventually turns yellow.
Traditional Use/s: It is used to clean out the body from impurities.
Preparation: A bunch of the vine is pulled along with its fruit and washed. The vine is then
allowed to dry properly (3 to 4 days preferably). The vine along with its fruit is then boiled in
water for approximately 15 minutes. The tea is allowed to cool then it is drank 2 times a day for
3 weeks. It is recommended that a purgative be done 1 month before.
Common Name/s: Tree of Life
Scientific Name: KALANCHOE PINNATA (Plate 4-B)
Plant Family: CRASSULACEAE
Description: The tree of life plant is a succulent perennial plant that grows 3-5 feet tall. It has
tall hollow stems, fleshy dark green leaves that are distinctively scalloped and trimmed in red,
and bell-like pendulous flowers. The fruits are enclosed in the persistent papery calyx and
corolla. Seeds small smooth oblong-ellipsoid, scarcely striate, smooth. The leaves often produce,
on their crenature at the extremities of the lateral nerves, buds furnished with root, stems and
leaves, which drop off and at once become new plants.
Traditional Use/s: It is used to draw out pus from boils, treat cough, colds, flu, weakness,
swelling and bruises.
Preparation: One or two leaves are crushed until it forms a paste. The paste is then placed over
the boil. A cloth is then tied around the boil so as to keep the paste in position. The paste will
draw out pus causing the boil to burst faster. Several of the leaves are boiled in water (1 cup of
water per leaf). The decoction of the leaves is then drank to treat cough, colds, flu and weakness.
The decoction of the leaves is also used as a bath or wash to reduce swelling and bruises. A tub
of decoction is usually prepared is the whole body is experiencing swelling or bruises.
26
Plate 4
Cerasee (A)
MOMORDICA CHARANTIA
27
Tree of Life (A)
KALANCHOE PINNATA
Stone Crusher (A)
Castor oil Plant (A)
PHYLLANTHUS AMARUS
RICINUS COMMUNIS
Common Name/s: Stone Crusher (Seed under Leaf)
Scientific Name: PHYLLANTHUS AMARUS (Plate 4-C)
Plant Family: EUPHORBIACEAE
Description: It grows 50 to 70 centimeters tall and bears ascending herbaceous branches. The
bark is smooth and light green. It bears numerous pale green flowers which are often flushed
with red. The fruits are tiny, smooth capsules containing seeds. An annual herbal shrub that
blooms with flowers with 5 white sepals and apical acute anther.
Traditional Use/s: This plant is used to treat diabetes, gallstones or kidney stones, poor appetite,
constipation, flu, and colds.
Preparation: In this case the entire plant is boiled in one or 2 cups of water. The tea from this
plant is then drank. The leaf is usually extracted but the little stones under the leaf remains in the
tea. It is recommended that the stones under the leaves be drank with the tea. This will slowly eat
out the gall or kidney stones. This tea should be drink 2 times a day for 3 to 4 weeks. The stone
will become smaller until the person is able to pass it through. The tea will also treat diabetes,
increase appetite, reduce constipation and reduce fever, flu and/or cold.
Common Name/s: Castor Oil Plant
Scientific Name: RICINUS COMMUNIS (Plate 4-D)
Plant Family: EUPHORBIACEAE
Description: The castor oil plant can vary greatly in its growth habit and appearance. The
variability has been increased by breeders who have selected a range of cultivars for leaf and
flower colors, and for oil production. It is a fast-growing, suckering perennial shrub that can
reach the size of a small tree, but it is not cold hardy. In some varieties they start off dark reddish
purple or bronze when young, gradually changing to a dark green, sometimes with a reddish
tinge, as they mature.
Traditional Use/s: The seed dried seeds of this plant are used as purgatives.
Preparation: The seeds should be allowed to dry properly for approximately 3 to 4 days. The
seed can be eaten once dried, however it can also be roasted. The consumption of too much seeds
can be dangerous so it is recommended that an individual should only eat one or two the most.
28
Common Name/s: Cancer Bush
Scientific Name: ACALYPHA ARVENSIS (Plate 5-A)
Plant Family: EUPHORBIACEAE
Description: The cancer bush grows about 50 cm in height. It commonly grows or sprouts in
groups of several plants. They produce green flowers that has a lot of spike around it. The plant
is relatively thin and flexible.
Traditional Use/s: The whole plant is used to treat sores, rash, itching, blisters, ulcers and
fungus.
Preparation: The entire plant is boiled in water about 15 minutes. The water is then strained and
used to wash different areas of the skin experiencing the rash, sores, blisters ulcers or fungus.
This can be done several times a day depending on the ailment. Sores, rash, itching, blisters
usually disappears faster than ulcers and fungus.
Common Name/s: Physic Nut
Scientific Name: JATROPHA CURCAS (Plate 5-B)
Plant Family: EUPHORBIACEAE
Description: The leaves have significant variability in their morphology. In general, the leaves
are green to pale green, alternate to sub-opposite, and three- to five-lobed with a spiral
phyllotaxis. Male and female flowers are produced on the same inflorescence, averaging 20 male
flowers to each female flower or 10 male flowers to each female flower. The seeds are mature
when the capsule changes from green to yellow.
Traditional Use/s: It is used as a purgative.
Preparation: The dried physic nut is used to purge the body. The dried nut is shelled and then
the seed is chewed. It is recommended that only one of this seed be taken.
29
Plate 5
B
Cancer Bush (A)
Physic Nut (A)
ACALYPHA ARVENSIS
JATROPHA CURCAS
D
Yama Bush (A)
SENNA OCCIDENTALIS
30
Piss-a-bed (A)
SENNA ALATA
Common Name/s: Yama Bush
Scientific Name: SENNA OCCIDENTALIS (Plate 5-C)
Plant Family: FABACEAE
Description: Yama Bush is an unarmed slender upright and short-lived (annual or biennial)
shrub. Its once-compound leaves consist of 3-7 pairs of leaflets that have pointed tips. A
mounded gland at base of leaf stalk, no glands between leaflets. There is a conspicuous darkcolored gland near the base of the stalk of each leaf. Its flowers have five yellow petals and are
borne in small clusters in the upper leaf forks. Its fruit is a somewhat flattened, straight or
slightly sickle-shaped, pod. This species gives off a foul odor when damaged.
Traditional Use/s: It is used to treat menstrual pain, fever and flu.
Preparation: The roots of the plant are boiled in 1 to 2 cup of water for 10 minutes. The
tea/decoction are then strained before drinking so as to remove the large roots. The roots
however should remain in the water for the next drink. 2 cups of the roots decoction are drunk
hot or as one can withstand before meals. The will aid in the reduction/removal of menstrual
pain.
Common Name/s: Piss-a-bed (Candle bush)
Scientific Name: SENNA ALATA (Plate 5-D)
Plant Family: FABACEAE
Description: Is a small subtropical bush, usually only to 4-6ft, but can grow to 10ft. Often takes
on a spreading growth habit to several feet. Blooms pretty much the whole year, yellow flowers
are followed by brown pod fruit. Flowers attract butterflies. The Candle Bush is a fairly hardy
plant (in hospitable environments). It can take drought and it also grows well in full sun.
Traditional Use/s: It uses include urinary tract conditions and female infertility.
Preparation: Two or three bunches of flowers are boiled in water for 15 minutes. The flowers
should be fully submerge under water. The amount of water used depends on the size of the
bunch of flowers. A small dosage of the tea is usually drank every 2 hours per day. This tea is
used to treat urinary tract conditions. The roots of the plant are harvested/extracted. The roots are
then washed and crushed properly. The crushed roots are soaked in rum for 5 days. A small
dosage (shots cup) of the roots soaked in rum should be taken per day for 2 weeks.
31
Common Name/s: Madre de Cacao
Scientific Name: GLIRICIDIA SEPIUM (Plate 6-A)
Plant Family: FABACEAE
Description: Madre de Cacao is a medium-sized tree and can grow to from 10 to 12 meters high.
The bark is smooth and its color can range from a whitish gray to deep red-brown. It has
composite leaves that can be 30 cm long. The flowers are located on the end of branches that
have no leaves. These flowers have a bright pink to lilac color that is tinged with white.
Traditional Use/s: Madre de Cacao is used to heal wounds and relief skin itching.
Preparation: The leaves, bark or roots are boiled in water for about 20 minutes. The decoction
of leaves, bark or roots are then poured in a tub of water. The individual should soak in the tub
for about 30 minutes. This will relief skin itching and help wounds heal faster. The Madre de
cacao is prepared as a bath.
Common Name/s: Mint
Scientific Name: MENTHA SPICATA (Plate 6-B)
Plant Family: LAMIACEAE
Description: Mints are aromatic, almost exclusively perennial, rarely annual, herbs. They have
wide-spreading underground and over ground stolons and erect, square, branched stems. The
leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, from oblong to lanceolate, often downy, and with a serrated
margin. While the species that make up the Mentha genus are widely distributed and can be
found in many environments, most grow best in wet environments and moist soils. Mints will
grow 10–120 cm tall and can spread over an indeterminate area.
Traditional Use/s: Mint is used to treat stomach ache and chest pains.
Preparation: The leaves is used to make a lemonade drink. Several lime are squeezed in a cup
of water. Sugar is then added and stirred. A handful of leaves from the mint tree is collected,
washed and blended. The blended leaves are added to the drink and then stirred. The mint leaves
can also be eaten as is. Both ways will treat stomach ache and chest pains.
32
Plate 6
Madre de Cacao (A)
Mint (A)
GLIRICIDIA SEPIUM
MENTHA SPICATA
D
33
Bissy (Cola Nut) (A)
Neem (A)
COLA ACUMINATA
AZADIRACHTA INDICA
Common Name/s: Bissy (Cola Nut)
Scientific Name: COLA ACUMINATA (Plate 6-C)
Plant Family: MALVACEAE
Description: The Kola nut is a caffeine-containing nut of evergreen trees. Bissy has long, ovoid
leaves pointed at both the ends with a leathery texture. The trees have yellow flowers with purple
spots, and star-shaped fruit. The first taste of the seed is bitter, but it sweetens upon chewing.
This tree reaches 25 meters in height and is propagated through seeds.
Traditional Use/s: The Bissy plant is used as an antidote against poison, usually from food,
allergies and to relieve symptoms of chikungunya. Bissy is also used to treat fever, relieve
inflammation and diarrhea.
Preparation: A tea is made from the busy seed or nut. The seed is allowed to dry properly
before it is gratered. After the seed is gratered hot water is poured over the trash. The hot water
will cause the trash to release caffeine and strength of the bissy seed. The tea can be allowed to
cool before drinking or it can be sipped while hot or warm. The tea fight against poisoning,
allergies, symptoms of chikungunya, fever, inflammation and diarrhea.
Common Name/s: Neem
Scientific Name: AZADIRACHTA INDICA (Plate 6-D)
Plant Family: MELIACEAE
Description: Neem is a fast-growing tree. The branches are wide and spreading with opposite,
pinnate leaves. The terminal leaflet is often missing. The petioles are short. The (white and
fragrant) flowers are arranged in more-or-less drooping axillary panicles which are up to 25
centimeters long.
Traditional Use/s: Neem is used to treat intestinal worms, Stomach upset, diabetes, liver
problems, birth control, abortions, malaria, stomach, intestinal ulcers pain, and fever.
Preparation: one or two handful of leaves are picked/harvested from the tree and placed in
water to boil. The tea is then drank by individuals suffering from intestinal worms, stomach
upset, diabetes, liver problems. The tea should be drank 2 or 3 times a day for 3 weeks to a
month. It is recommended that the individual visit a doctor to check their status in any ailment as
they drink the tea. The tea from the leaves is also drank as birth control and for abortions. The
tea is drank for the following 2 days after intercourse. The tea is also drank several weeks into
the pregnancy to abort the child. The bark from the neem tree is dried for 2 to 3 days before
boiling it. The tea made from the bark is then drank to treat malaria, ulcer pain and fever.
34
Common Name/s: Cedar Tree
Scientific Name: CEDRELA ODORATA (Plate 7-A)
Plant Family: MELIACEAE
Description: The cedar are ageless or dry-season shedding trees, that has alternate pinnate compound
leaves grown 5-7 leaflet pairs about 7-14cm long each, flowers have a typical garlic-like smell, the
woody flowers are moth pollinated, tube shaped and cream/green colored, range in height at
maturity 35-40 M. Male and female flowers grow on the same tree, trunk has a thick grey–brown
bark, with longitudinal irregular grain.
Traditional Use/s: Is used for internal bleeding, asthma, inflammation, bruises, coughs, cold and
fever.
Preparation: The bark from the cedar tree is extracted and put out in the sun to dry properly for
5 to 6 days. The bark is then boiled in water for 10 to 15 minutes. The tea is then drank to treat
the listed ailments above. Milk and sugar can be added to the tea before drinking. Another way
to prepare the remedy is to extract the cedar bark then cut it up into pieces and soak it in water or
rum for a short period of time. It can be soaked over-night as well if desired. This method
eliminates the drying process or step.
Common Name/s: Makabuhay
Scientific Name: TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA (Plate 7-B)
Plant Family: MENISPERMACEAE
Description: The vine climbs any near object (tree, post etc.) near to it. The leaves are broad.
The vine is thin in its young stage but becomes thicker as it ages.
Traditional Use/s: This plant is used to treat athlete’s foot and scabies.
Preparation: A one foot long portion of the vine and boiled in 5 cups of water for 15 minutes.
The infected foot is soaked in the hot decoction for 15 minutes or as can be tolerated. Between
the toes should be rubbed with cotton applicators while the foot is soaked. This will remove the
dead skin and pricking vesicles. The foot can be soak for 10 more minutes after removing the
dead skin. A meter –long vine is chopped and boiled in one gallon of water for 15 minutes.
Enough water should be added to fill up one plastic pail big enough to completely soak a child or
any person, if the whole body is infected.
35
Plate 7
Cedar Tree (A)
CEDRELA ODORATA
Moringa (A)
MORINGA OLEIFERA
36
Makabuhay (A)
TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA
Bread Fruit (A)
ARTOCARPUS ALTILIS
Common Name/s: Moringa
Scientific Name: MORINGA OLEIFERA (Plate 7-C)
Plant Family: MORINGACEAE
Description: Moringa is a fast-growing, deciduous tree. The bark has a whitish-grey colour and
is surrounded by thick cork. The tree has an open crown of drooping, fragile branches and the
leaves build up feathery foliage of tripinnate leaves. The flowers are fragrant and bisexual,
surrounded by five unequal, thinly veined, yellowish-white petals. The fruit hanging down has
globular seeds. The seeds have three whitish papery wings and are dispersed by wind and water.
Traditional Use/s: It is used to treat diabetes, gastric ulcers and diarrhea. It also improves the
quality and flow of mothers’ milk.
Preparation: A handful of leaves are plucked and boiled in water for 15 minutes. This will
produce a tea that is good for drinking. The leaves from the tea can be strained or it can be drank
with the leaves. It is recommended that the leaves not be extracted so as to get the best result.
This tea will treat diabetes, gastric ulcers and diarrhea. The tea can be dinked twice a day. A
handful of flowers picked are crushed until juice is produced. The juice from the flowers are then
drank by a mother to improve the quality and flow of breast milk.
Common Name/s: Bread-Fruit Tree
Scientific Name: ARTOCARPUS ALTILIS (Plate 7-D)
Plant Family: MORACEAE
Description: The bread fruit trees are monoecious, with male and female flowers growing on the
same tree. The male flowers emerge first, followed shortly afterward by the female flowers,
which grow into capitula. The Fruit vary in shape, size, and skin texture. They are usually round,
oval or oblong weighing. Skin texture ranges from smooth to rough to spiny.
Traditional Use/s: This plant is used to treat broken bones, sprains, skin ailments, fungus
diseases and purgative. The plant is also used to treat diarrhea, stomachaches, and dysentery.
Preparation: The milky latex from the tree is massaged into the skin to treat broken bones and
sprains. Basically all parts of the tree has milky latex. The leaves are crushed and applied to the
area of the skin experiencing ailments or fungal disease. The roots of the tree can be extracted or
cut (wash) and placed in a water to boil. The tea serves as a purgative. The milky latex is mixed
with water so as to make it dilute. When diluted it can be drank so as to stop diarrhea, reduce
stomach aches and dysentery. After drinking this dilute milky latex the individual will
experience relief from all ailments (diarrhea, stomachaches, and dysentery) within 3-4 hours.
37
Common Name/s: All Spice
Scientific Name: PIMENTA DIOICA (Plate 8-A)
Plant Family: MYRTACEAE
Description: The tree produces fruits that looks somewhat like black pepper in appearance, with
a rough and brittle surface and crowned by the remains of the calyx teeth, surrounding the short
style. The fruit is two-celled, each cell containing a single, kidney-shaped seed.
Traditional Use/s: The All spice tree is used for a variety of medicinal purposes such as tooth
ache, wash and proper digestion.
Preparation: The leaves or berries from the all spice tree are the main ingredients that aid in
relieving tooth ache. The berries or leaves are well chewed until a paste is formed. The paste is
then used to cover the aching portion of the gum. This will provide a fast relief. After about 2 to
3 minutes the toothache will be gone. They are females who sometimes suffer from menstrual
cramps. The leaves of the all spice tree are boiled and used as a bath. A tub is recommended for
rapid relief. The female should soak in the tub for at least half an hour. After 15 to 30 minutes
the female will begin to experience relief from the menstrual cramps. The berries and leaves are
also used for proper digestion. The leaves and berries are boiled for approximately 10 minutes
and drank as a tea. The tea will induce proper digestion.
Common Name/s: Bilimbi
Scientific Name: AVERRHOA BILIMBI (Plate 8-B)
Plant Family: OXALIDACEAE
Description: The tree is very attractive. It produces small, fragrant, yellowish-green or purplish
flowers marked with dark-purple, are borne in small, hairy panicles emerging directly from the
trunk and oldest, thickest branches and some twigs. The fruit's skin is glossy and very thin. If
unripe, the fruit is bright green and crispy. It turns yellowish as it ripens.
Traditional Use/s: Bilimbi is used for treating itches, swelling, or sores. It is also used as an
after birth tonic, cold, and cough.
Preparation: The leaves are crushed until it forms a paste. The paste is applied to the area that is
experiencing itching, swelling skin rupture (cut/sore). The leaves can also be boiled and used as
a bath to treat itching, swelling and sores as well. The sores will heal faster and the individual
will experience almost immediate relief from the itching. The swelling will begin to decrease
after 2 to 3 hours of application (Soaking). The flowers are boiled or soaked in hot water to
make a tea. The tea is used as an after birth tonic and also to treats cold and cough.
38
Plate 8
All Spice (A)
Bilimbi (A)
PIMENTA DIOICA
AVERRHOA BILIMBI
Cow Foot (A)
PIPER AURITUM
39
Jointed Wood (A)
PIPER AMALAGO
Common Name/s: Cow Foot (Root Beer Plant)
Scientific Name: PIPER AURITUM (Plate 8-C)
Plant Family: PIPERACEAE
Description: The spadex flowers of Piper auritum grow from the base of each leaf when the
plant reaches a height of about 3-4 feet. The leaves are double lobed at the base. The leaves are
wide and green with a strong scent when crushed.
Traditional Use/s: This plant is used as a bath for stressed out females, proper digestion and to
calm colicky babies. The leaves are used on to increase milk production in women’s breast.
Preparation: Several leaves are crushed and placed in hot water so as to extract the essence. The
female should then take a bath with the water. This will allow the female to relax. The leaves
should be crushed and soaked in alcohol. This will or can be placed on the women’s breast. This
will cause the woman to produce more breast milk.
Common Name/s: Jointed Wood
Scientific Name: PIPER AMALAGO (Plate 8-D)
Plant Family: PIPERACEAE
Description: The Jointed wood has green, hairless leaves are 4 to 14 cm long and 2 to 7 cm
broad. They are pointed at the tip, ovate to elliptic, and have palmate venation with five main
veins. Tiny flowers are borne in compact, cord-like, gray-green spikes 6 to 12 cm long. At
maturity, the small (1.5 mm) fruits (drupes) are closely packed along the spike. Jointed wood is
primarily an understory species of old growth and secondary forests. It is also found in openings
and along roads. The species will endure all but the densest shade under stands, but needs
openings or at least intermediate crown positions in open forest or brush thickets to reproduce.
Traditional Use/s: Jointed wood is used as a sitz bath for women after birth.
Preparation: Several leaves are picked and crushed properly. A hot bath is prepared; preferably
in a bath tub. The crushed leaves are placed in the bath tub for 10 minutes. The female should
then relax in the tub for 20 to 30 minutes. This will help her recover and relieve her from cramps
and pain as well.
40
Common Name/s: Llanten
Scientific Name: PLANTAGO MAJOR (Plate 9-A)
Plant Family: PLANTAGINACEAE
Description: Llanten is an herbaceous perennial plant with a rosette of leaves. Each leaf is ovalshaped, with an acute apex and a smooth margin; there are five to nine conspicuous veins. The
flowers are small, greenish-brown with purple stamens. Llanten is wind-pollinated, and
propagates primarily by seeds, which are held on the long, narrow spikes which rise well above
the foliage.
Traditional Use/s: It is used for liver disorders, vaginal infections, high cholesterol, stomach
ache and wound-healing
Preparation: The leaves are boiled in a small amount of water for 5 to 10 minutes. The tea is
usually allowed to warm or cool. The tea is then drank until the ailment has disappear or vanish.
The tea will cure liver disorders, vaginal infections, lower cholesterol, reduce stomach aches.
The tea is also used as a wash. Individuals who have wounds that is not healing or healing too
slow usually use this wash 2 times a day for 1 or 2 weeks. The wash will cause the wound to heal
faster.
Common Name/s: Fever/Lemon Grass
Scientific Name: CYMBOPOGON SCHOENANTHUS (Plate 9-B)
Plant Family: POACEAE
Description: Lemon/Fever grass is a perennial grass grown for its fragrant leaves and stalks
which are used as a flavoring. The grass grows in dense clumps and has several stiff stems and
slender blade-like leaves which droop towards the tips. The leaves are blue-green in color,
turning red in the fall. They release a strong lemon fragrance when damaged/cut
Traditional Use/s: Lemon Grass is widely used to alleviate certain respiratory conditions
including laryngitis and sore throats. It is also used to reduce high fevers, increased perspiration
and eventually the complete removal of fever. It is used alleviate muscle spasms.
Preparation: Lemongrass is usually prepared for tea consumption. The leaves should be picked
and allowed to dry for a day or two depending on the temperature. The dried leaves should be
soaked in hot water for 10 minutes the strained before drinking it. Any desired sweetener may be
added to the tea to enhance the taste. This tea will aid respiratory conditions, laryngitis, sore
throats, fevers, increase perspiration and alleviate muscle cramps.
41
Plate 9
Fever/Lemon Grass (A)
CYMBOPOGON SCHOENANTHUS
PLANTAGO MAJOR
Gengwayo (Geng wheo) (A)
Noni (A)
SECURIDACA LANCEOLATA
42
Llanten (A)
MORINDA CITRIFOLIA
Common Name/s: Gengwayo (Geng wheo)
Scientific Name: SECURIDACA LANCEOLATA (Plate 9-C)
Plant Family: POLYGALACEAE
Description: The tree has beautiful pink flower with relatively small leaves. This plant is usually
found /located in the forests of Belize. However, it can be found in
Traditional Use/s: The plants is used to treat pain in the immune system.
Preparation: The roots or stem is soaked in water or alcohol/rum for a short period of time.
About 10to 20 minutes. The rum/water is then drank. This will relieve the individual from pain
in the immune system.
Common Name/s: Noni
Scientific Name: MORINDA CITRIFOLIA (Plate 9-D)
Plant Family: RUBIACEAE
Description: The noni plant is a tropical evergreen tree that grows to about 10 feet tall in the
Caribbean. The tree can grow as tall as 10 feet and bears a fruit about the size of a potato which
starts out green and ripens into yellow or white. The juice, fruit, bark, and leaves are used in
herbal remedies and Polynesian folk medicine.
Traditional Use/s: The Noni fruit is used to induce erection, treat colds, flu, diabetes, anxiety,
and high blood pressure.
Preparation: The fruit is blended without the seeds in a blender. Cranberry juice is then added
to the juice. The juice is usually poured in a bottle or gallon and shake well before every drink so
as to mix properly. The juice is then drank in small dosages for 1 or 2 times a day. One in the
morning and one in the night preferably. The noni juice will treat all of the listed ailments above.
It is not recommended for individuals under the age of 22. The noni juice is usually drank 2 to 3
hours before sexual intercourse to get the best/desired erection time span.
43
Common Name/s: Cure All (Polly Red-Head)
Scientific Name: HAMELIA PATENS (Plate 10-A)
Plant Family: RUBIACEAE
Description: Polly Red-Head grows in deforested areas, in thickets with other brushy species, in
forest openings, or in the understory of low basal-area forest stands. Hamelia Patens has a
modified dichasium with flowers that are tubular, 12 to 22 mm long, and orange to red in color.
The fruit is a berry, spherical to elliptical, 7 to 10 mm long, turning red and then black at
maturity. The seeds are orange-brown, 0.6 to 0.9 mm long
Traditional Use/s: It is used to treat everything from sores, ulcers, fungus, rashes, burns, insect
bites, and bee stings.
Preparation: First the problem skin is scrubbed with a mixture of whole leaves, lime juice, and
salt for 2-3 minutes. Then the freshly picked Poly Red Head leaves are smashed into a paste and
rubbed into the newly scrubbed skin and left to dry. The procedure is repeated 2 or 3 times a day
and within a day or two, the skin problem is usually cured.
Common Name/s: Ruda
Scientific Name: RUTA CHALIPENSIA (Plate 10-B)
Plant Family: RUTACEAE
Description: Ruda is a small evergreen bush with flat bluish-green aromatic leaves and yellow
flowers that bloom in late summer. Colorful sepals are long lasting. Rue fragrance is strong,
characteristically aromatic and sweet; it cannot be compared with any other spice. The taste is
rather bitter, even more so when dried.
Traditional Use/s: Is used for nervous system problem, ritual cleansing from negative vibes
(Obeah) and abortion.
Preparation: Hot water is poured into an empty cup. The flowers and leaves are then placed in
the cup. The tea can then be drank to calm the nervous system. The tea can also be drank to
induce abortion. The female can drink this tea twice a day for 3 to 4 weeks once in the first
trimester. This will cause the female to lose the fetus/embryo. 2 to 3 hand-full of leaves are
boiled in water for 5 minutes. This is then used to wash an individual suffering from stress or
experiencing negative vibes (Obeah). The wash prepared from the leaves will cleanse the
individual from any negativity or stress.
44
Plate 10
45
Polly Red-Head (A)
Ruda (A)
HAMELIA PATENS
RUTA CHALEPENSIS
China Root (A)
Pain Killer (A)
SMILAX CORDIFOLIA
DATURA METEL
Common Name/s: China Root
Scientific Name: SMILAX CORDIFOLIA (Plate 10-C)
Plant Family: SMILACACEAE
Description: Smilax plants grow as shrubs, forming dense impenetrable thickets. They can grow
over trees and other plants up to 10 m high, their hooked thorns allowing them to hang onto and
scramble over branches. The genus includes both deciduous and evergreen species. The leaves
are heart-shaped and vary from 4–30 cm long in different species. Smilax is a very damagetolerant plant capable of growing back from its rhizomes after being cut down or burned down
by fire.
Traditional Use/s: The China Root is used to produce more blood cells within the body, reduce
weariness and increase sexual drive in males.
Preparation: The root is dug up and then chopped. The chopped roots are boiled for about 15
minutes before the individual can drink it. The tea resembles a blood tonic. The blood tonic (tea)
will cause the body to produce more blood cells within the body and experience less weariness.
The roots can be chopped and soaked in rum with the root or stem of the Geng wheo plant. This
will increase sexual drive in male experiencing impotency.
Common Name/s: Pain Killer
Scientific Name: DATURA METEL (Plate 10-D)
Plant Family: SOLANACEAE
Description: A short perennial to about 4-6ft branches, Stems and leaves are tinted purple, the
huge flowers can grow to 12”. The plant flowers quickly from seed and can bloom in just a few
months from planting. The flowers are followed by circular, warty fruits and fruits that dry and
pop open to expel seeds. All parts of this plant are extremely toxic and should not be ingested in
any form. Ingestion of a single leaf can have severe side effects. The plant is an annual herb, it is
slightly furry, with dark violet shoots and oval to broad oval leaves that are often dark violet as
well. The pleasantly-scented 6-8 in. flowers are immensely varied, and can be single or double.
Colors range from white to cream, yellow, red, and violet. The seed capsule is covered with
numerous conical humps and a few spines. This plant is claimed to be poisonous once ingested.
Traditional Use/s: It is used to relief pain.
Preparation: A piece of the branch with the leaves and flowers are soaked in the green alcohol
preferably for 1 to 2 weeks before use. The flower and leaves are the parts soaked in the alcohol.
The alcohol is then used to rub the area experiencing pain.
46
Common Name/s: Susumba
Scientific Name: SOLANUM RUDEPANNUM (Plate 11-A)
Plant Family: SOLANACEAE
Description: An erect, bushy, spiny perennial shrub with stem bark grey and nearly smooth with
raised lenticels. The roots are white and the twigs are gray-green and covered with star shaped
hairs. The spines short and slightly curved. The leaves are opposite or alternate, broadly ovate
with entire margins and deeply lobed, petiole, covered with hairs. Possess white, tubular with 5
pointed lobes. Berries, in clusters of tiny green spheres, thin-fleshed, contains numerous flat,
round, brown seeds.
Traditional Use/s: It is used for burns, infection on the skin, coughs and flu.
Preparation: In this case the bath and tea are prepared in the same manner. 2 branches with its
leaves are boiled in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes. 1 cup of tea is drunk before each meal. This
is done for 1 to 2 weeks depending on the results. The bath/wash can be prepared by boiling 3 to
4 branches with leaves in water for 10 minutes (1 branch with leaves to 1 cup of water). So in
this case 3 to 4 cups of water would be used.
Common Name/s: Vervain (Vervine)
Scientific Name: STACHYTARPHETA CAYENNENSIS (Plate 11-B)
Plant Family: VERBENACEAE
Description: This is a slender, but erect, herbaceous perennial plant that is up to 5' tall. It
branches occasionally along the upper half of its length. The green to reddish stems are fourangled. The opposite leaves are up to 6" long and 1" across. Individual floral spikes are up to 5"
long, and densely crowded all around with numerous blue-violet flowers. Each flower has a blueviolet corolla with 5 spreading lobes, a short-tubular calyx with 5 narrow teeth, 4 inserted
stamens, and a pistil.
Traditional Use/s: Is used for stomachache, coughs, fever, nervousness and intestinal parasites.
Preparation: A couple branches (2 to 3) are boiled with the leaves in water for 5 to 10 minutes.
The amount of water depends on the amount of tea desired. It is recommended that one cup be
drank before each meal. Leaves are crushed completely until it releases juice. The juice from the
leaves are then drank. The juice produced should be quarter of a cup. The juice from the leaves
should be taken every day for 7 days.
47
Plate 11
Susumba (A)
SOLANUM RUDEPANNUM
Wild Sage (A)
LANTANA CAMARA
48
Vervine (A)
STACHYTARPHETA CAYENNENSIS
Aloe Vera (Sabilla) (A)
ALOE BARBADENSIS MILL
Common Name/s: Wild Sage
Scientific Name: LANTANA CAMARA (Plate 11-C)
Plant Family: VERBENACEAE
Description: Lantana camara is a small continuous growing shrub which can grow to around
2m in height and forms dense thickets in a variety of environments. The Lantana Camara has
small tubular flower shape which each have four petals and are arranged in clusters at the end of
stems. Flowers change colours after pollination usually from yellow to red, white, pink and
orange which differ depending on location, age and maturity, the leaves are oval, simple, and are
arranged oppositely on the stem and have a strong odour when crushed. The fruit is berry-like
and turns a deep purple color when mature. Lantana plants are asexual and seed reproduction, Up
to 12,000 fruits can be produced by each plant.
Traditional Use/s: To relieve itching.
Preparation: A hot water bath is prepared (preferable in a tub). Several leaves are then added to
the water. The leaves infusion is the used as a bath or wash. The person suffering from itching
can then soak in the bath for 20 to 30 minutes. If it is only one area the individual can wash only
the affected area.
Common Name/s: Aloe Vera (Sabilla)
Scientific Name: ALOE BARBADENSIS (Plate 11-D)
Plant Family: XANTHORRHOEACEAE
Description: The Aloe Vera plant typically has large, thick, fleshy leaves. Aloe Vera is an
ornamental plant that has small white teeth along the edges. It produces flowers which are
tubular, yellow and densely clustered and pendant. They vary in color from grey to bright-green
and are sometimes striped or mottled. Aloe Vera is known or referred to as the plant of
immortality.
Traditional Use/s: Aloe Vera is used for treating burns, rashes, constipation, strengthening hair
and reducing scaring.
Preparation: The gel from the Aloe Vera is rubbed onto the area of the skin suffering from rash
or exposed to burn. The gel will sooth the burn and lessen the degree of scaring. The rash will
slowly disappear and heal. The firm white substance from the Aloe Vera can be extracted and
swallowed. The swallowing of the white substance will reduce constipation and too much will
induce constipation. The gel can also be rubbed in the hair. The gel will strengthen the hair and
induce growth.
49
CHAPTER V – DISCUSSION
It can be stated that the traditional healing is slowly disappearing within the Garifuna
community. The young generations are focused on pharmaceutical drugs instead of medicinal
plants. There are numerous medicinal plants within the Garifuna community that can be used to
treat various ailment. The part of any plant used medicinally depends on the ailment and the
species. The parts used ranges from the leaves, to the flower, vine, bark, stem or the entire plant.
Figure 1 below shows the parts of the plants used more frequent. From the results it can be seen
that all the plants involve in traditional healing are Angiosperms. This means that the plants have
the ovules and seeds enclosed in an ovary, from the embryo and endosperm by double
fertilization, and typically have each flower surrounded by a perianth composed of two sets of
floral envelopes comprising of the calyx and the corolla (flowering plant).
From the bar graph above it can be seen that the leaves are mostly used for medicinal purposes
and vine is the least used. The flower and roots are used almost the same amount of time.
Different ailment require different parts to be used in preparing the treatment. Some herbalist
differ in the way some remedy are prepared. Due to the changes in the mindset of the young
generations they don’t really rely on medicinal plants. Herbalists claim that the middle aged (3050
40) and elderly people are the one who mostly rely on these plants. Herbalist treat a range of
ailment such as traumatic injury, snake bite, hepatitis, respiratory disease, digestive system
disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and skin problems. Some local Garinagus claimed that they
preferred to use traditional medicines rather than western drugs to get relief from some diseases
including bone fracture, health problems associated with the liver, snake bite and those caused by
hepatitis. 44 medicinal plants collected which belong to 42 genera and 30 families. These plants
treat a range of ailments. From simple fever to complex sexually transmitted disease (STD) such
as gonorrhea. There are several ways in which these plant are prepared. Some plants are prepared
by a decoction of leaves, roots or flower. While other are prepared either by poultice or soaking,
the chart below shows the most common preparation of these medicinal plants.
FIGURE 2
The pie chart above shows that the most common type of preparation which is decoction.
Decoction is a method of extraction by boiling of dissolved chemicals from herbal or plant
material, which may include stems, roots, bark and rhizomes. The second most common
preparation is as a bath/wash, followed by Meal/Eaten and lastly poultice and soaking. A
poultice is a soft, usually heated substance that is spread on cloth and then placed on the skin to
heal a sore or reduce pain. Some people say that medicinal plants does not work for them. When
the herbalists was confronted with this question he said that it doesn’t work for some people
because they want to do their own thing. By doing their own thing he meant that they didn’t
prepared it as instructed or take the rite amount and they didn’t maintain consistency. He states
51
that preparation and consistency is very important. If a plant is not prepared properly then it will
not work. If a plant is prepared properly the herbalists assured me that it would work.
TABLE 1 SHOWING THE NUMBER OF SPECIMENS THAT BELONG TO EACH CLADE
Number of species
Monocot
Dicot
Angiosperms
Gymnosperms
4
40
44
0
From the table above it can be stated that only 4 plants are monocotyledons meanwhile 40 plants
are dicotyledonous. It can also be seen that all of the medicinal plants documented are
angiosperms.
Number of species used
LINE GRAPH SHOWIN THE MOST COMMON
MEDICINAL USES
25
20
15
10
5
0
Fever (F)
Gastro intestinal (GI) Skin related Ailment
(SRA)
Blood (B)
Medicinal uses
FIGURE 3
The graph above shows the most common medicinal uses. The line graph clearly shows that
gastro intestinal is the most common medicinal use, followed by skin related ailment then fever
and lastly blood. Gastro intestinal, fever and blood usually requires a decoction of some part of
the plant. Skin related ailment usually requires a decoction of some part of the plant but instead
of drinking it, it should be used as a wash or bath. Gastro intestinal basically refers to of or
relating to the stomach and the intestines.
52
TABLE 2 MEDICINAL SPECIES USED IN THE GARIFUNA COMMUNITY
Scientific Name
Family
Common Name/s
Part/s Used
Medicinal
Use/s
Dysphania
ambrosioides
Amaranthaceae
Epazote
Leaves
GI
Amaranthus cruentus
Amaranthaceae
Callaloo
Leaves
B
Neurolaena lobata
Asteraceae
Jackass Bitters
Leaves
GI, B
(Tres Puntas)
53
Tagetes erecta
Asteraceae
Marigold
Leaves and Flower
SRA, P
Annona muricata
Annonaceae
Sour Sop
Leaves
HBP, S
Sansevieria
trifasciata
Asparagaceae
Snake Plant (Mother in
law’s tongue)
Leaves
SRA
Bixa orellana
Bixaceae
Annato
Shoots and Young Leaves
F, GI, STD
Bursera simaruba
Burseraceae
Gumbo Limbo (Tourist
tree)
Bark
GI, GU
Opuntia
cochenillifera
Cactaceae
Scoggineal
Pad
F
Cecropia peltata
Cecropiaceae
Trumpet Tree
Leaves
HBP, GI,WL
TABLE 2 MEDICINAL SPECIES USED IN THE GARIFUNA COMMUNITY (CONTINUED)
Tradasiantia
spathacen
Commelinaceae
Oyster Plant
Flowers and Leaves
RE, ST, B, SRA,
AAL
Coccinia grandis
Cucurbitaceae
Cucumbersito (small
cucumber, ivy gourd)
Entire plant (Root, Fruit and
Leaves)
RE, CV, HC, AAL
Momordica charantia
Cucurbitaceae
Cerasee
Vine with leaves and Fruits
PG, B
Kalanchoe pinnata
Crassulaceae
Tree of Life
Leaves
GI
Phyllanthus amarus
Euphorbiaceae
Stone Crusher (Seed
under Leaf)
Entire Plant (Root, leaves and
seed)
D, GS, GI
Ricinus communis
Euphorbiaceae
Castor Oil Plant
Dry Seed
PG
Acalypha arvensis
Euphorbiaceae
Cancer Bush
Entire Plant (Root, Leaves
and Fruit)
GI, SRA
Jatropha curcas
Euphorbiaceae
Physic Nut
Dry Seed
PG
Senna occidentalis
Fabaceae
Yama Bush
Roots
F, OG
Senna alata
Fabaceae
Piss-a-bed (Candle
bush)
Flowers and Roots
OG, GI, GU
54
TABLE 2 MEDICINAL SPECIES USED IN THE GARIFUNA COMMUNITY (CONTINUED)
Gliricidia sepium
Fabaceae
Madre de Cacao
Leaves, bark and Roots
BW
Mentha spicata
Lamiaceae
Mint
Leaves
GI
Cola acuminata
Malvaceae
Bissy (Cola Nut)
Dry Seed
GI, F, SRA, AAL
Azadirachta
indica
Meliaceae
Neem
Leaves
GI, D, BC
Cedrela odorata
Meliaceae
Cedar Tree
Bark
IB, GI, F, AAL
Tinospora
cordifolia
Menispermaceae
Makabuhay
Vine
SRA
Moringa oleifera
Moringaceae
Moringa
Leaves and Flowers
D, GI, B
Artocarpus altilis
Moraceae
Leaves, Roots and
Milky Latex
PG, GI, SRA
Pimenta dioica
Myrtaceae
All Spice
Leaves, Fruit (berry)
T, GI
Averrhoa bilimbi
Oxalidaceae
Bilimbi
Leaves and Flowers
SRA, BW
55
Bread-Fruit
Tree
TABLE 2 MEDICINAL SPECIES USED IN THE GARIFUNA COMMUNITY (CONTINUED)
Piper auritum
Piperaceae
Cow Foot (Root Beer Plant)
Leaves
BW, GI, B
Piper amalago
Piperaceae
Jointed Wood
Leaves
BW
Plantago major
Plantaginaceae
Llanten
Leaves
OG, HC, GI, H
Cymbopogon
schoenanthus
Poaceae
Fever/Lemon Grass
Leaves
RE, F
Securidaca
lanceolata
Polygalaceae
Gengwayo (Geng wheo)
Root and Stem
P, IS
Morinda
citrifolia
Rubiaceae
Noni
Fruit
MI, F, D, HBP
Hamelia patens
Rubiaceae
Cure All (Polly Red-Head)
Leaves
SRA, GI, AAL
Ruta chalipensia
Rutaceae
Ruda
Flowers and Leaves
NS, BW, BC
Smilax cordifolia
Smilacaceae
China Root
Roots
B, MI
Datura metel
Solanaceae
Pain Killer
Branch, leaves and
flowers
P
56
TABLE 2 MEDICINAL SPECIES USED IN THE GARIFUNA COMMUNITY (CONTINUED)
Solanum rudepannum
Solanaceae
Susumba
Branch and Leaves
SRA, BW
Stachytarpheta
cayennensis
Verbenaceae
Vervain (Vervine)
Branch and Leaves
GI,F
Lantana camara
Verbenaceae
Wild Sage
Leaves
SRA
Aloe barbadensis
Xanthorrhoeaceae
Aloe Vera (Sabilla)
Leaf (gel)
GI, SRA,
Medicinal use/s Key: GI-gastro intestinal, B-blood, SRA-skin relating ailment, HBP-high blood pressure, F-fever, PG-purgative, STDsexually transmitted disease, WL-weight loss, GU-genitio urinary, ST-sore throat, RE-respiratory, AAL-analgesics anti-inflammatory,
CV-cardio vascular, HC-high cholesterol, D-diabetes, GS-gall stones, OG-obstetric gynaecological, BC-birth control, T-teeth, BW-bat
h and wash, MI-male impotence, NS-nervous system, P-pain, DC-dermatological cosmetics.
Table 2 shows the different parts used in the traditional healing within the Garifuna community. The table also shows the different
types of ailment that a certain species treats; as well as the family, scientific and common names. Of the 44 species of medicinal plants
collected from the study area, most of them were obtained from the wild habitats. Most of the plants used medicinally were harvested
by healers from natural environment, while those that were hard to find were bought from medicinal materials suppliers. There were
no signs of medicinal plants at the market. The only medicinal plants that could be found at the market were those that were used in
food. The herbalists were all located along the street side in their own little area. Each herbalist would stand out from the other. Stand
out is referring to the types of plant they had. All herbalists had some plant different from the other. It was noted that no herbalists had
the same plant. They had few in common but majority was different.
57
TABLE 3 SHOWING THE NUMBER OF SPECIES WITHIN A FAMILY
Family
Number of
Family
Number of
species
species
Amaranthaceae
2
Malvaceae
1
Asparagaceae
1
Moringaceae
1
Asteraceae
2
Menispermaceae
1
Annonaceae
1
Meliaceae
2
Bixaceae
1
Oxalidaceae
1
Burseraceae
1
Piperaceae
2
Cactaceae
1
Polygalaceae
1
Cecropiaceae
1
Poaceae
1
Cucurbitaceae
2
Plantaginaceae
1
Commelinaceae
1
Rutaceae
1
Crassulaceae
1
Rubiaceae
2
Euphorbiaceae
4
Solanaceae
2
Fabaceae
3
Smilacaceae
1
Lamiaceae
1
Verbenaceae
2
Myrtaceae
1
Xanthorrhoeaceae
1
Moraceae
1
From the table above it can be seen that Euphorbiaceae and Fabaceae are two families with the
most species. 3 species within the Fabaceae family and 4 species within the Euphorbiaceae
family.
58
FIGURE 4 SHOWING THE DIFFERENT PLANT TYPES
USED WITHIN THE GARIFUNA COMMUNITY
7%
13%
Herb
Tree
48%
Shrub
Vine
32%
The most widely used plant remedies by the Garinagus were obtained from herbaceous species
which ranked the highest category of 21 species (48%), followed by trees species with 14 (32%),
then shrub species with 6 (13%) and lastly vine with 3 species (7%). Similar findings were
reported by Singh et al., 2012 showing that herbs were also used at a vast number in treating
human ailments. The study showed 53% of herbaceous species, followed by 23% of trees
species, then shrub species with 18% and lastly climber or vine with 6%. These results were very
similar.
The elderly Garinagus are the ones who know how to use medicinal plants for treating
ailments and health protection. Traditional medicine knowledge was not only in the hands of the
Garifunas healers and herbalists in the study area. Moreover, Garifuna people grew medicinal
plants in their home gardens. Each herbalists knew about 15 plants. According to Herbalists,
nowadays it would take a lot of time and travel long distances to search for some medicinal
plants, especially trees and some shrubs. The principal threats of medicinal plants were reported
in the study area, including deforestation for agricultural purposes, urbanization, drought, overharvesting of known medicinal species. Also, informants ranked deforestation for agricultural
purposes as the most serious threat to medicinal plants followed by drought. There is medicinal
plants knowledge secrecy within the Garifuna community. For the herbalists selling medicinal
59
plants at the street side is their livelihood and their means of income. Some herbalists don’t want
to share their information because they are afraid of competition. One herbalist’s claims that if
the other herbalists had his plants then people could go to buy from them instead of him. So all
these issue develop secrecy within the society. This study revealed that, most of the knowledge
on herbal remedies was handled down to the younger members of the community by elders
orally, who were over 40 years old and less-educated.
The Garifuna herbalists were mostly males except for two female individuals. One of the
female learned about medicinal plants from her grandparents while the other had the
opportunities to study knowledge of traditional medicinal plants in the family. The age structure
and knowledge transmission system has the negative influence on the inheritance and
development of indigenous knowledge. It’s dramatically exposed the vulnerability of traditional
medicinal knowledge if its transmission was limited by acculturation or inter-ethnic exchange
from generation to generation. In this present age the inheritance of indigenous knowledge is
hard to transfer from the elders to young people. Simply because most young people do not
believe that studying indigenous knowledge is beneficial for their life because it is less profited
compared to working in the urban area. A few young people spoken to about this issue claimed
that traditional medicine is anti-science.
60
CHAPTER VI - CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The paper is an ethno botanical study on medicinal plants used by Garifuna community.
The documentation of 44 species (belonging to 30 families) of medicinal plants used by the
Garinagus in Belize. These plants were used to treat over 30 human ailments. It can be deduced
that the knowledge on medicinal plant is slowly being lost within the culture. The knowledge on
medicinal plants has no specific culture. There are very few plants that are used by only one
specific culture. The knowledge is shared among the cultures in Belize. It can be stated that
medicinal plants was mostly used in the past. However, pharmaceutical drugs is mostly used in
this present era. Traditional knowledge about the use, preparation, and application of these
medicinal plants is usually passed verbally from generation to generation. The valuable
information about medicinal plants could be preserved while recording in the written form.
Moreover, the documentation of medicinal plants can serve as a stepping stone for future
research/testing and invention of new medicinal resources. The knowledge on herbal remedies is
known by mostly elders, who are uneducated and above 40 years old. It is extremely important
that we find a solution to preserve and pass on the traditional medicinal knowledge in the
Garifuna community. This research serves as a documentation of medicinal plants before the
knowledge is lost.
Recommendations:

More research on medicinal plants should be done in Belize since they are few researches
in this area.

It is very important that the herbalist who harvest the plants try to replant so as to avoid
depletion and extinction of resource.

Deforestation for development is a major treat to these medicinal plants. So it is
recommend that the ministry of the environment supply seedlings or seeds and cultivation
techniques of medicinal plants to the communities interested.
61

More people should use medicinal plants before using pharmaceutical drugs.

Secrecy should be minimized within the community.

The transfer of knowledge to the youths should be promoted within the herbalists.

The department of health should promote medicinal plant to the Belizean people.
REFERENCE
Avilez T., W. Gonzalez M., M. Garcia D., R. Boulogne I., and Robineau G., L. (2015).
Medicinal plant knowledge in Caribbean Basin: a comparative study of Afrocaribbean,
Amerindian and Mestizo communities Journal of ethnobiology and ethnomedicine 11:18
Belize Demographics And Population Data. (2012). Retrieved from Belize.com:
http://www.belize.com/belize-demographics
BERDS. (2005). Ecosystems. Retrieved from biodiversity & environmental resource data system
of belize: http://www.biodiversity.bz/find/ecosystem/
Briney, A. (2015). Geography of Belize. Retrieved from about education:
http://geography.about.com/od/belizemaps/a/belizegeography.htm
d’Avigdor E., Wohlmuth H., Asfaw Z., & Awas T. (2014). The current status of knowledge of
herbal medicine and medicinal plants in Fiche, Ethiopia. Journal of ethnobiology and
ethnomedicine, 2-3.
Feitosa I., S. Albuquerque U., P., & Monteiro J., M. (2013). Knowledge and extractivism of
Stryphnodendron rotundifolium Mart. in a local community of the Brazilian Savanna,
North-eastern Brazil. Journal of ethnobiology and ethnomedicine, 1-2.
Molares S., and Ladio A. (2014). Medicinal plants in the cultural landscape of a Mapuche
Tehuelche community in arid Argentine Patagonia: an eco-sensorial approach. Journal
of ethnobiology and ethnomedicine, 2-3.
Montesano V., Negro D., Sarli G., De Lisi., Laghetti G., & Hammer K. (2012). Notes about the
uses of plants by one of the last healers in the Basilicata Region (South Italy). Journal of
ethnobiology and ethnomedicine, 1-2.
Orijel, R. G., Terrazo, A. R., & Velázquez M., O. (2013). Women care about local knowledge,
experiences from ethnomycology. Journal of ethnobiology and ethnomedicine, 2.
62
Picking, D., Delgoda R., Boulogne I., & Mitchell S. (2013). Hyptis verticillataJacq: A review of
its traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology. JOURNAL OF
ethnopharmacology, 3-4.
Panti, D. R. (1996). Alternative Medicine In Belize. Retrieved from Belize.com:
http://www.belize.com/alternative-medicine
Singh, A. G., Kumar, A., & Tewari, D. D. (2012). An ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants.
Journal of ethnobiology , 1-5.
Soria, C. (2014, August 23). Belize Demographics Profile 2014. Retrieved from Index Mundi:
http://www.indexmundi.com/belize/demographics_profile.html
Wood, R. a. (1999). Vegetation of belize. Retrieved from Field Guide to Ambergis Caye, Belize:
http://ambergriscaye.com/fieldguide/bzplants.html
63
APPENDIX
Medicinal plants Survey
Interview Number: ________________
________________________
Name of settlement/ District: _____________________
Date:
1. Gender
i.
Male
ii.
Female
2. What is your age Group
i.
8 – 28
ii.
29 – 39
iii.
40 – 50
iv.
51 >
3. Ethnicity
i.
Maya
ii.
Mestiso
iii.
Garifuna
iv.
Creole
v.
East Indian
vi.
Other (Specify)
4. Education
i.
None
ii.
Primary School
iii.
Secondary School
iv.
Tertiary <
5. The majority of people seeking assistance from you as herbalist
i.
Maya
ii.
Mestizo
iii.
Garifuna
iv.
Creole
v.
Asian
vi.
Other (specify)
64
6. How many years have you been practicing as a herbalist?
i.
1- 5
ii.
6 -10
iii.
11- 15
iv.
16-20
v.
21-25
vi.
26<
7. From whom you have acquired the herbal knowledge?
i.
Parents
ii.
Grandparents
iii.
Friend(s)
iv.
Community Elders
v.
other specify ________
8. Approximately how many medicinal plants do you use?
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
vi.
1-10
11-20
21-30
31-40
40-50
50<
9. Medicinal plant uses and preparation methods (this part may have more qualitative data)
Common name
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
65
Medicinal Use
Part of plant use
Preparation and
application
10. Where do you find the medicinal plants that you use in your preparations?
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
Forest
Market
Garden
Other _______
11. Do you harvest medicinal plants for
i.
ii.
iii.
Own use/Practice
Commercial/resale
other _________
12. Compared to the past (ten years) how difficult is it to find the medicinal plants that you
use plant
i.
ii.
iii.
Very difficult
Difficult
Same
13. To what extent does community members use the medicinal plants
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
frequently
somewhat
rarely
not at all
14. Do you share your knowledge with others?
i.
Yes
ii.
No
15. Do you learn/Gather knowledge?
i.
By meeting other herbalist
ii.
By reading books/articles/news papers
iii.
Other (specify)
16. Do you intend to pass your knowledge to someone in your family?
i.
Yes
ii.
No
66
17. Do you think that this knowledge of herbal use should be preserved for future
generations?
i.
Yes
ii.
No
18. What efforts can be made to keep this knowledge available for future generations?
……………………………………………………………………………………
67