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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
SECTION I.
MEDICINAL PLANTS
10 Best Filipino Medicinal Plants Revisited
Next 10 Best Philippine Medicinal Plants
Fruits That Heal
Vegetables That Heal
Flavors and Spices That Heal
Insectidinal Plants
50 Priority Medicinal Plants
Jaime Z. Galvez Tan M.D., M.P.H.
[email protected]
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
1.1. 10 BEST FILIPINO MEDICINAL PLANTS REVISITED
It was in 1993 when the Department of Health (DOH), then under Secretary (now
Senator) Juan M. Flavier launched the 10 most useful medicinal plants. It is time to revisit these
10 herbal medicines and find out what has happened since then. Also this could be the best time
to prepare and launch the “Next 10 Best Medicinal Plants” by the Department of Health and
now, more rightfully, by the Philippine Institute for Traditional and Alternative Health Care
(PITAHC).
The 10 best medicinal plants are: lagundi (Vitex negundo L.), yerba buena (Mentha
cordifolia Opix ex Fresen), sambong (Blumea balsamifera L.), tsaang gubat (Carmina retusa,
Masam.), niyog-niyogan (Quisqualis indica L.), bayabas (Psidium guajava L.), akapulko (Cassia
alata L.), ulasimang bato (Peperomia pellucida), bawang (Allium sativum) and ampalaya
(Momordica charantia).
These 10 were the most researched medicinal plants in the Philippines done by the
National Integrated Research Program on Medicinal Plants (NIRPROMP), and mainly funded by
the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) of the Department of
Science and Technology (DOST) since the mid 70’s. Their safety and efficacy have been proven
in the laboratory as well as in human clinical trials. They also respond to the most common
ailments of Filipinos.
Their propagation and cultivation have been well studied by the University of the
Philippines at Los Banos, Department of Horticulture. The Department of Education has been in
the forefront of encouraging herbal gardens to be established in every school as well as in the
homes and communities of their students. Before, the Bureau of Plant Industries (BPI) of the
Department of Agriculture (DA) produced the seedlings of these ten medicinal plants. However,
of late they have not been able to sustain such efforts nationwide.
Of these 10, only seven have been transformed into commercially available preparations
(Vitex, Blumea, Cassia, Carmina, Allium, Mentha and Momordica). Pascual Laboratories,
through its subsidiary Altermed, have been the pioneer in producing the commercial
preparations, Ascof, the brand name of Vitex; Re-lief for Blumea and Amargozine for
Momordica. Soon they will be launching the Cassia alata ointment and the Mentha capsule as
analgesic. Momordica is also produced by HerbCare, Ampalaya Plus and ABS Herbals while
Vitex, Blumea and Carmina are produced by the PITAHC. Allium sativum or garlic has a number
of commercial preparations, although most of them are imported from other countries.
1. Lagundi (Vitex negundo L.)
It is also known as tugas, dangla, dabatan or the 5 leaved chaste tree. This
medicinal shrub, which usually grows to a height of 5 meters, is mainly used for asthma,
cough and fever. The leaves, whether fresh or dried, are used either as a decoction or tea.
It is available commercially in tablet form as Ascof. A syrup preparation will be
introduced within the year.
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2. Yerba Buena (Mentha cordifolia Opiz ex Fresen)
It is also known as hibas, ablebana, mint or peppermint. It is an crawling herb that
is also used as a spice and as a side dish in Southeast Asia. Its main medicinal use is as an
analgesic for headache and body pains. It can be eaten raw or prepared as a decoction or
tea.
3. Sambong (Blumea balsamifera L.)
It is also known as alibhon, ayoban, lakdanbulan, subusob, gabon or blumea
camphor. Blumea is a shrub that grows up to 3 meters and has hairy and aromatic leaves.
It has been scientifically proven to be effective in dissolving kidney stones. It is also
useful as a diuretic, thus can be used for those with edema or hypertension. A decoction
of the fresh or dried leaves are used. Blumea is available commercially in tablet form,
under the brand name of Re-lief.
4. Tsaang Gubat (Carmina retusa Masam.)
It is also know as malatandiang, kalabonog, maragued, talibunog or taglokot.
Carmina is a shrub that grows to a height of 5 meters. It has very small leaves that are
dark green, smooth and shiny. It is commonly used as an ornamental and decorative plant
usually as a bonsai. Its main medicinal use is for abdominal pain and colic. Because the
leaves are rich in fluoride, its decoction can be used as an effective gargle to strengthen
the teeth. The Department of Health used to produce commercially available tablets of
Carmina.
5. Niyog-Niyogan (Quisqualis indica L.)
It is also known as pinyon, pinones, talolong, tanglon, tangulo, talulong, Burma
creeper, Chinese honey suckle and Liane vermifuge. Quisqualis is a vine shrub that
grows up to 8 meters. It has flowers which are red, pink and white. It bears 2 to 3 cm
fruits which are multi-sided. The seeds are the parts with medicinal value as an antihelminthic for round worms. The seeds are best taken at night 2 hours after dinner. For
children, aged 4-5 years old, take 4 to 5 seeds; for 6-8 years old, 5 to 6 seeds and for 7-12
years old, 6 to 7 seeds. Adults are advised to take 8 to 10 seeds. Repeat the dose after a
week. A usual side effect is a hiccup.
6. Guava (Psidium guajava L.)
It is also known as bayabas, tayabas, bayabo, bayawas, gaiyabit and guyabas.
Guava is a tree that grows up to 4 to 5 meters. The leaves are opposite; its flowers white
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and bear round or oval shaped fruits that are yellow when ripe with plenty of little seeds.
Medicinally, the decoctions of the leaves are used as wound and skin ulcer wash; as a
mouth wash for infections of the mouth, gums and teeth. The decoction is also effective
as a foot and body deodorant when used as a bath. The fruits and bark can also be picked
fresh, washed and cut into pieces for air or oven drying. Once powdered, the fruit and
bark parts can be made into a tea or a decoction for the same purposes as the leaves. The
tips of young guava stems can be pounded and used as a toothbrush.
7. Ampalaya (Momordica charantia L.)
It is also known as margoso, apalaya, palia, paria, balsam apple, balsam pear and
bitter gourd. Momordica is a commonly used vegetable with its leaves, flowers and fruits
eaten raw as a salad or cooked into various food recipes. The plant is a vine with serrated
leaves and bears yellow flowers that become round or elongated fruits with corrugated
skin. Ampalaya has been clinically tested to be effective in lowering blood sugar for
those with diabetes type 2 or non-insulin dependent diabetes. One half glass of fresh
young leaves which has been steamed or blanched is taken twice a day. It is now
available commercially in capsule form with three brand names Charantia, Charagen and
Amargozine.
8. Pansit-Pansitan (Peperomia pellucida)
It is also known as olasiman bato. Peperonia is an herb that grows widely as a
weed around garden plants. It height is usually 6 to 10 cm., with heart shaped leaves and
juicy stems. The whole plant is used as a salad or decoction for the treatment of gout.
Pansit-pansitan has been clinically tested to be effective in lowering blood uric acid. For
the salad preparation, wash the one and a half cup of fresh leaves. Mix with your favorite
flavors, spices and condiments. Divide in three parts and eat three times a day. For the
decoction, boil one and a half cup of clean fresh leaves in two glasses of water over a low
flame. Do not cover the pot and wait until it becomes one glass. Cool and divide into
three doses to be taken three times a day.
9. Akapulko (Cassia alata L.)
It is also known as palo china, bayabas-bayabasan, katanda, sunting, andadasi,
bikas-bikas, kasitas and ringworm bush. Akapulko is a shrub that grows to a height of
1.5 to 3 meters. Its leaves are opposite and smooth. It has distinctive bright yellow
flowers with elongated slender flat lentil-like brown colored fruits. Akapulko is effective
against fungal infections of the skin. The juice of the leaves can be applied directly to the
affected skin areas. The leaves can be cut into small pieces and boiled with equal
amounts of coconut oil for three minutes. Once cooled, it can be stored in amber bottles
and applied in affected skin areas. In community based health programs, volunteer health
workers and mothers transform the oil extract of akapulko into ointment preparations by
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missing it with petroleum jelly or candle wax. These are then sold to community
members as part of their income generating projects. Pascual Laboratories will be
marketing commercially soon an ointment preparation of Akapulko.
10. Garlic (Allium sativum L.)
It is also known as bawang and ahos. It is one of the most popular spice and
flavor in dishes and sauces. It is medicinally used to lower blood cholesterol. To prepare,
the bulbs can be toasted; or can be immersed in vinegar for 30 minutes; or blanch with
hot water for 5 minutes. Take 2 of these prepared cloves three times a day after meals.
There are different kinds of garlic capsules available commercially in health food shops.
1.2. NEXT 10 BEST PHILIPPINE MEDICINAL PLANTS
Investing in Philippine medicinal plants is an excellent way to counteract the negative
effects of globalization on our economy. Since the raw materials are indigenous and grown in the
country, with Filipino designed processes in production, processing and manufacturing, sales and
marketing, the local medicinal plants industry will have that competitive edge in the global
market. There are quite a number of medicinal plants whose species originated in the Philippines.
Other plant species have been proven to be superior compared to other similar tropical herbs due
to the specific soil, climate and environmental conditions of our farms and forests.
Most fruits, vegetables, flavors and spices are also excellent and good sources of
phytochemicals that are used as medicines. Thus, on the issue of safety, toxicity and side effects,
fruits, vegetables, flavors and spices that have been used as medicinal plants and food for
centuries are the safest natural medicines to use. Aside from the vitamins, minerals,
micronutrients that we get from them, we get the extra bonus of anti-oxidants, flavonoids,
volatile oils that further promote health and wellness.
The research agenda for the development of Philippine medicinal plants need to be
redefined in the context of the 21st century. Globalization, market competitiveness and
technological advancement were not as pronounced when the National Integrated Research
Program for Medicinal Plants (NIRPROMP) of the Philippine Council for Research and
Development (PCHRD) of the DOST was launched in the late 1970’s. New research questions
will have to be generated from medicinal plants horticulture, agronomy, crop protection,
harvesting, drying and processing technologies, phytochemistry, pharmacology, pharmaceutical
preparations, marketing, sales and financing. These research challenges will have to be faced not
only by Filipinos scientists and academics but also the other stakeholders in medicinal plants
development such as farmers, agriculturists, business and trade people, financiers, health
professionals and patients.
The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (IPS) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Philippines of the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) has come out with their research
priorities with regards natural products research. These include pharmaceutical chemistry,
biological activity screening, isolation and identification of active constituents. With regards
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pharmaceutics research, applicable to medicinal plants as well, the focus will be on product preformulation and formulation, quality assurance, bioavailability studies, stability studies and
pharmacokinetic studies.
Asked to some of the experts in medicinal plants research on what should the next
frontier be, the answer is to focus now on the medicinal plants that would be respond to the
major causes of deaths and illnesses among Filipinos. These are cardiovascular diseases,
tuberculosis, cancer, pneumonia, kidney diseases and malnutrition. On the public health side, the
energies should be spent on the use of medicinal plants in family planning, nutrition, health
promotion and prevention of diseases.
The Philippine herbal medicine research community organized a series of seminarworkshops on the state of the art of research in medicinal plants dubbed as the National
Colloquium on Medicinal Plants Research and their Business Opportunities. The discussions
highlighted the mature technologies and identified research gaps in herbal medicines in the field
of agricultural production, post-harvest technology, pharmaceuticals, pharmacology,
phytochemistry, toxicology screeening, human clinical trials, food and nutrition, cosmetics and
biological pesticides, regulations and legislations, commerce, trade, business and marketing.
It was spearheaded by U.P. Los Banos Chancellor Wilfredo David and with great support
from U.P. Manila, the National Institutes of Health Philippines (NIH), the Philippine Council for
Health Research and Development (PCHRD), the Philippine Institute for Traditional and
Alternative Health Care (PITAHC), U.P. Diliman, Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research,
Bureau of Food and Drug-Department of Health (BFAD-DOH), the National Integrated
Research Program for Medicinal Plants (NIRPROMP) and the Center for International Trade
Expositions and Missions (CITEM) of the Department of Trade and Industry.
With more than 1,500 medicinal plants identified in the country, of which 177 are on the
research list of the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), allow
me to suggest the next ten best Philippine medicinal plants that every Filipino must know. The
selection has been based on the following criteria: amount of research done here and abroad,
usefulness to the common health needs of Filipinos, ease in its cultivation and propagation and
commercial potentials, locally and internationally.
1. Makabuhay or Tinospora rumphi Boerl
Family Menispermaceae
Genus Tinospora Miers.
Other scientific names: Menispermum crispum Linn.; Menispermum rimosum Blanco,
Tinospora crispa F.-Vill.; Tinospora cordifolia F.-Vill.; Tinospora crispa (L.) Miers ex
H & T.; Tinospora reticulata Miers.; Coccolus cordifolius Walp.
Local names: makabuhay (Tagalog, Bisaya, Ilokano); paliaban (Bis.); panauan (Bis.);
pañgiauan (Bis.); pañgiauban (Bis.); panyawan (Bisaya); sañgaunau (Bag.); taganagtagua
(Bis.). cay ky ninh (Vietnamese)
Habitat: It is found in and nearby towns in thickets, in most or all islands of the
Philippines. It is perhaps and introduced species. It also occurs in Malaya.
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Description: It is a climbing, dioecious vine reaching a height of 4 to 20 meters. The
stems are up to 1 centimeter thick and somewhat fleshy, with scattered and numerous
protuberances. The leaves are thin, ovate, 6 to 12 centimeters in length, and 7 to 12
centimeters in width, with pointed and truncate or somewhat cordate base, smooth and
shining. The petioles are 3.5 to 6 centimeters long. The racemes are solitary or in pairs
arising from the axils of fallen leaves, pale green, slender, 10 to 20 centimeters long. The
flowers are pale green, and short-pedicelled. The fruits are orange berries which are 7 to
8 millimeters long.
Phytochemical content: The whole plant contains a bitter principle, colombine, 2.22 per
cent; traces of an alkaloid; and a glucoside. The plant contains an amorphous bitter
principle, picroretine, and traces of berberine. The root-bark contains a bitter principle
(not a glucoside) and some alkaloid. The leaves contain picroretine, traces of an alkaloid
and a substance similar to glyzirrhizin. The stem contains amorphous and resin-like
substances. Other alkaloids are: tinosporin, tonosporan, tonisporidin which are found in
the leaves and stems. Leaves and stems contain saponin, tannin, glycosides and alkaloids.
Medicinal uses: The Filipinos and Malays in general consider this vine as a universal
medicine. It is the most popular of local medicinal plants. It is commonly prescribed as
an aqueous extract in the treatment of stomach trouble, indigestion and diarrhea. It is
also an effective remedy in the treatment of tropical ulcers. In powder form, it is
prescribed in fevers. A preparation with coconut oil is an effective cure for rheumatism
and also for flatulence of children.
A decoction of the stem is considered an effective cure if used as wash for
tropical ulcers. The decoction of the stem is also an excellent vulnerary for itches,
ordinary and cancerous wounds. Internally it is used as tonic and antimalaria, externally
as a parasiticide.
On experimental animals, it has been found to depress medullary centers. In
Vietnam, it has been found to be very effective for Staphylococcus aureus and Candida
albicans. It is also used for treating malaria. It is also used as an antipyretic and a
digestive agent.
Indications and directions for use: Scabies: crush fresh stem and apply juice over all
affected areas of the body. Tropical ulcers: use decoction of stem as wash, or crush stem,
soak in oil for 12 hours and apply oil extract on affected ulcers.
Contraindications: It should not be given to patients with cardiac disorders and in
children below three years old, as well as weak individuals. It is also contraindicated in
pregnant patients and in fever due to typhoid and lobar pneumonia.
Pesticidal uses: The bitter principle is believed to be insecticidal. Farmers put cut pieces
of the stem in their rice fields to lower pest populations. One study found the plant extract
to be quite effective for houseflies.
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2. Balanoi or Ocimum basilicum L.
Other scientific names: Ocimum americanum Blanco; Ocimum citriodorum Blanco
Family: Labiatae
Genus: Ocimum Linnaeus
Common names: albanaka (Ibanag, Tagalog) balanoi (Tagalog), bauing (Sulu), bidai
(Ilokano); bouak (Viasayan); kalu-ui (Central Visayas); kamangi (Panay Visayas); rukuruku (Sulu), samilig (Bikol); samirig (Bikol); sweet basil (English); bai korapi, bai
manglak, bai kaprow (Thai); daun kemangi, daun selasih (Malay, Indonesian)..
Description: Erect, branched, somewhat hairy and very aromatic under shrub about 1
meter high. Leaves are ovate to oblong-ovate, entire or slightly toothed. Flowers are pink
or purplish, borne in racemes which are 8 to 15 cm. long. Nutlet is very small, ellipsoid,
black.
Habitat: Found throughout the Philippines in settled areas at low and medium altitudes’
spontaneous in open waste places. It can easily grow in the garden or a pot by putting
several stems into the earth. Discard the leaves at the base of the stem, but keep the upper
leaves. Water well and within a few days, the stems will have taken root and will grow
vigorously if given sufficient sunshine and water.
Phytochemicals: The plant yields a volatile oil, 0.02 to 0.04 percent, which contains
cineol, methyl chavicol, linalool and terpene hydrate. The flowers yield 0.4 per cent of
volatile oil. The Javan variety contained eugenol, ocimene and pinene. Other varieties
contain d-d-pinene, d-camphor and anethol. There is tannin and calcium oxalate in stems
in stems
Pharmacopeia: The flowering herb is found in the Belgian, Danish, French, Spanish,
Swedish Pharamcopeias. The leaves are official in Mexican and Venezuelan
Pharmacopeias. The volatile oil in the Belgian, French and Rumanian Pharmacopeias.
The whole plant in the Materia Medica of China.
Culinary use: It is used as a condiment in the Philippines. In India, it is used as a
seasoning. In Kanawar, they are sometimes eaten mixed in ordinary bread. In Eastern
Bengal, infused in water, they are used as a refreshing and cooling drink.
It is often eaten raw as a herb in Thailand and Vietnam, served on a platter of
fresh herbs which are added to lettuce wrappers for enclosing spring rolls, or nibbled with
raw vegetables and a spicy dip. It is also added to stir-fried chicken or beef, or to curries,
particularly in Thailand. It is fried with seafood in Malaysia and Indonesia.
Thais soak the seeds in water until they are swollen, then mix them with coconut
milk to make a dessert.
Cosmetic use: They are placed among clothes by the Malays to scent them. In Africa,
they are compounded into cosmetics. They are an ingredient for toothpastes and mouth
wash formulas.
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Pesticide use: In Malaya, they are used to keep away flies. In the Philippines, it is used to
drive away mosquitoes and cockroaches.
Medicinal uses: In the Philippines, the leaves are used in infusion or decoction as a
carminative and stimulant medicine. The juice of the leaves is used for ringworm and the
bruised leaves for scorpion stings. The juice of the plant, sniffed up, causes sneezing and
clears the brain. It has also diaphoretic and expectorant properties. A decoction of the
plant is used as a wash for ulcers, eczema and dermatitis. It is also prescribed in
vomiting, hiccups and polypus of the nose.
The volatile oil, methyl chavicol, has mild germicidal action. The leaves and
flowers are considered excitant, diuretic and a stimulant for weak digestion. Among
Malays, the juice of the leaves is used for cough. A decoction of the leaves maybe
administered after birth and the juice is taken if the menses are delayed.
The seeds and flowers possess stimulant, diuretic and demulcent properties. A
cold infusion of the seeds can relieved after pains of parturition. The seeds are
mucilaginous and cooling, being given in infusion in gonorrhea, diarrhea and chronic
dysentery. The seeds are used as aphrodisiac. The seeds, washed and pounded, are used
in poultices for unhealthy sores and sinuses. The seeds are also used to soothe pain and
inflammation. The flowers are used for treating coughs among children. The roots are
used for bowel complaints of children and as a febrifuge.
3. Corchorus capsularis Linn.
Family Tiliaceae Genus Corchorus Tournefort
Common names: lumhai (Bisaya); panigbin (Samar-Leyte Bisaya); pasau-na-bilog
(Tagalog); saluyut (Ilokano); sumpa (Samar-Leyte Bisaya).
Habitat: It is found mostly in clearings, on rice-paddy banks, and in open, low, usually
wet places in and near settlements throughout the Philippines. It is pantropic in
distribution. It is cultivated in India and grown for its fiber in China.
Description: This is an erect, branched annual herb, 1 to 2 meters high. The stems are
usually purplish. The leaves are ovate-lanceolate, 5 to 12 centimeters long, pointed at the
tip and rounded at the base, furnished with a taillike projection on each side of the midrib,
and toothed at the margins. The flowers occur in small groups in the axils of the leaves,
and are about 4 millimeters long. The sepals are often purplish and the petals are yellow.
The capsules, which are globose to globose-obovoid and about 1 centimeter in diameter,
have longitudinal ridges.
Commercial use: As a source of jute
Culinary uses: The tops are eaten as vegetable, particularly by the Ilokanos.
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Medicinal uses: It is used as tonic. The leaves are used as a cure for headache. The
seeds, either as a powder or in decoction, are used as a tonic, carminative and febrifuge.
In Bengal, the dried leaves as tea are used for any disorder of the liver. The Malays use a
decoction from the leaves for dysentery, as a tonic for children, for coughs and phthisis.
The leaves are also used as a poultice for sores, as a condiment, as a stomachic, chronic
inflammation of the urinary bladder and painful urination. It has been reported for use for
worms in children, and for liver and intestinal cholic. A cold of the dried leaves is given
to patients recovering from acute dysentery to restore the appetite and improve body
strength.
The fruits are used in inflammation and abscesses and as a purgative. The seeds
are bitter and are given un a 60 to 80 grain dose for fevers and obstructions of the
intestines. In Bengal, India, the oil of the seeds are used for skin diseases.
The finely carded fiber has been used as a basis for antiseptic surgical dressings.
It is highly absorptive and admirably suited for this purpose.
Modern day Japanese have been importing saluyot from the Philippines and
Thailand and are making them into tablets to serve as a daily tonic. It is now an
ingredient mixed with other herbs in several commercial Philippine made teas.
Phytochemical contents: The seeds contain corchorin which is extracted with alcohol.
It is an extremely bitter glucoside having the formula C22H3608 which is ten times more
bitter than quinine sulfate. The seeds contain 2.25 per cent of raffinose. The leaves also
contain a bitter compound named capsularin or also known as a levorotatory corchorin.
The oil contains the glycerides of oleic acid, linolic acid, crude archidic acid and
palmitic and stearic acid.
4. Andropogon citratus DC
Other scientific names: Cymbopogon citratus Stapf.; Andropogon schoenanthus Blanco
Family: Gramineae
Genus: Andropogon Linnaeus
Common names: Tanglad (Tagalog, Visayan); baroni (Ilokano); belioko (Visayan); paja
de meca (Spanish); salay (Tagalog); lemon grass, sweet-rush, ginger-grass (English),
takrai (Thai), serai (Malaysian), sereh (Indonesian).
Description: A tufted perennial grass, the leaves up to 1 meter in length, 1 to 1.4 cm
wide, when crushed give s a strong lemon-like odor, scabrous, flat, long-acuminate,
glabrous. Panicles 30 to 80 cm long, interrupted below, the branches and branchlets
somewhat nodding. Perfect spikelets linear-lanceolate, pointed, not awned, about 6 mm
long. It is related to citronella.
Habitat: Frequently cultivated, not spontaneous. It grows readily in almost any soil, its
bulbs and leaves constantly multiplying. It is easily grown by putting the stem end of a
stalk in water until the roots appear, then it can be potted or put out in the garden.
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Phytochemicals: Distillation of the fresh plant yields lemon grass oil, verbena oil and
Indian Molissa oil. Contains citral; small quantities of methyl heptone, terpenes,
limonene, dipentene. Citral is an aldehyde which also occurs in lemon oil from lemon
peel. Volatile oil, 0.5 to 1% are mainly in the roots. Tannin, glycosides and sulfur in the
root. Iron in leaves and root.
Pharmacopeia: Leaves are official in the Mexican Pharmacopeia. The volatile oil is
official in the French, Dutch and Indian Add Pharmacopeia.
Cosmetic use: Lemon grass oil is used in making perfumes, especially ionone (synthetic
essence of violets). The roots are used for perfuming hair washes of gugo (Entada
phaseoloides (Linn.) Merr.)
Culinary use: The leaves are cooked with stale fish to improve the taste. They are used
in wines and various sauces and spices. The roots which have a ginger lilac flavor are
used as a condiment. In Java, the plant is used in spicing sherbet. In Visayas and
Mindanao, the leaves and roots are used to flavor the dish tinola. All over the Philippines,
the leaves and roots are used to flavor lechon (roasted pig) by putting them in the
evacuated abdomen of the pig. The roots are added to rice and other food preparations
during cooking to impart the fragrance.
If it is to be eaten raw, the outer layers of the bulb should be peeled away until the
pinkish ring inside appears. This tender portion is then finely sliced. It is also bruised and
added whole to many curry dishes, or sliced before being pounded into a paste.
Whole stalks of lightly bruised lemon grass, trimmed to a length of about 15-20
cm make an excellent skewer for prawns or seafood satay, as is enjoyed in Bali,
Indonesia.
Medicinal uses: Decoction of the roots for toothaches and as a diuretic. The leaves are
used for aromatic baths and fomentation. The leaves are applied to the forehead and face
as a cure for headaches. An infusion of the leaves is held in the mouth to alleviate
toothaches.
It is wholesome to the digestion; promotes perspiration; eases the flow of
menstruation. It is an excellent stomachic for children. With ginger, sugar and cinnamon,
it is given as a diaphoretic in fevers. With black pepper, it is useful in disordered
menstruation and in the congestive and neuralgic forms of dysmennorhea; and also in
dropsical conditions caused by chronic malaria. It is carminative and tonic to the
intestinal mucous membrane, useful in cases of vomiting and diarrhea. The oil is useful in
flatulent and spasmodic affections of the bowels and in gastric irritability. It is of great
value in cholera as it allays and arrests vomiting and aids the process of reaction.
Mixed with an equal quantity of pure coconut oil, it makes a liniment for
lumbago, chronic rheumatism, neuralgia, sprains and other painful affections. It is also a
helpful application for ringworm.
Preparations: Infusion of 4 ozs. of the grass to one pint of boiling water.
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Insecticidal uses: The oil has insecticidal properties. Plant around your house and
garden. Place crushed leaves on your window sills or where mosquitoes are. Boil equal
amounts of chopped leaves and roots with freshly made coconut oil. Cool and store in
amber bottles and apply on skin as insect repellant.
5. Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq.
Genus Orthosiphon Bentham
Family Labiatae
Other scientific names: Ocimum aristatus Blume; Orthosiphon stamineus Benth.
Common names: kabling-gubat (Tagalog); kabling-parang (Tagalog); balbas pusa
(Tagalog); cat’s whiskers (English); remujung (Bahasa Indonesia)
Habitat: It is found, but not common, in Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga,
Bulacan and Rizal provinces in Luzon; and in Coron, in thickets at low and medium
altitudes. It occurs also in India through Malaya to tropical parts of Australia.
Description: This is a slender, smooth or hairy undershrub 30 to 60 centimeters in
height. The leaves are in distant pairs, narrowed into the stalk, ovate, 5 to 10 centimeters
long, pointed at both ends and coarsely toothed at the margins. The flowers are borne in
very lax racemes. The calyx is bell-shaped, with named throat and two slender lower
teeth. The corolla is 2.5 centimeters long, smooth, white or purplish, very slender in the
tube, and thrice as long as the calyx. The nutlets are oblong and compressed.
Phytochemical contents: The leaves contain a high percentage of potassium salts. (0.738
grams in 100 grams of fresh leaves). The dried leaves have volatile oil and a bitter
alkaloid, orthosiphonin. The leaves are official in the Nederlandish Pharmacopeia. The
stems contain tannin, calcium oxalate and fatty substance. Sulfur is found in the stems
and roots.
Medicinal Uses: The leaves are used for gout and renal disorders. In Java, the leaves are
made into a tea and used in diseases of the kidneys and bladder. In Holland and France,
they have been used successfully in the treatment of diseases of the urinary organs. In
Malaysia, the leaves have been used for catarrh of the bladder. In Germany, experiments
show that its diuretic effect surpasses that of ordinary diuretics. It has also been found to
facilitate the flushing of small kidney stones by its strong diuretic action. Thus it is a
good complement to the kidney stone dissolving properties of Blumea balsamifera or
sambong.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
6. Coleus amboicus Lour.
Other scientific names: Plectranthus amboinicus; Coleus aromaticus Benth.
Family: Labiatae
Common names: Oregano (Tagalog, Spanish); suganda (Tagalog); sildu,clavo, klabo
(Visayan); Indian borage, country borage (English); daun bangun-bangun (Malaysia);
daun kucing, daun kambing (Indonesian); hung chanh, rau tan la day, rau thom long
(Vietnamese); coliole aromatique (French); five-in-one (Australia); broad leaf thyme
(West Indies).
Description: General: strongly aromatic green herb, 20-50 cm high, sometimes up to a
meter; perennial, branched, rather coarse, ligneous at the lowest part, fleshy 4 angled
stems, erect or spreading, pubescent.
Leaves: light green, fleshy, broadly ovate, 4 to 9 cm. long, opposite, blade thick, often
heart-shaped, somewhat hairy, succulent, fragrant, with rounded, toothed or crenate
margins, nervures reticulate, salient beneath.
Inflorescences: terminal with numerous verticals, dense multifloral.
Flowers: small, occur in distant whorls; panicles, bilabiate, beautiful lilac or pale purple
color.
Fruit: consists of 4 smooth, globose nutlets, round, brownish, slightly pubescent.
Habitat: species cultivated in cool and humid places; easily cultivated and found in pots
or planted in kitchen gardens in Southeast Asia.
Origins and History: Though to be a native to India but grows wild in Malaysia. Native
to the old tropics. Introduced in the Philippines during the Spanish period and now
widely cultivated in the country.
Propagation: Stem cuttings and sometimes by seeds.
Phytochemical contents: Volatile oils (0.05 %) in the leaves, mainly cavacrol.
Glucosides, calcium oxalate and tannin are present in the leaves and stems.
Culinary Use: It is added sparingly to goat and meat curries in Malaysia or Java. Just
one finely chopped leaf can be added to a bread stuffing with a pleasing result. Most
Spanish recipes make use of this as spice.
Medicinal uses: As a cough cure; macerated leaves used for burns, centipede bite and
other insect bites and stings, applied to the forehead for headache. Leaf infusion is
carminative, cure for asthma, dyspepsia. Juice from the leaves with sugar is given to
children with respiratory ailments like cough, asthma, bronchitis. The decoction of the
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
leaves is a remedy for some genito-urinary disorders, for colic, stomach ache, for
cleansing the skins; for tympanism and respiratory affections, as expectorant. .
In Vietnam, the fresh leaves have antibacterial, antifebrile and antitussive
properties. They are used in the treatment of coryza, grippe, hyperthermia, fever, cough,
asthma, hemoptysis, angina, laryngitis, hematemesis and epistaxis.
Laboratory research in Vietnam shows that the coleus amboinicus oil inhibits the
spread of Staphylococcus aureus, Diplococcus pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, Shigella
flexneri, Shigella sonnei, Shigella dysenteriae, E. coli, Corynebacterium diphtheriae
gravis, Haemophylus pertussis, Vibrio inaba, V. Ogawa and in 1:1280 has a dilution
effect on Entamoeba moskowskii and Trichomonas.
Dosage: Extracted juice of the leaves: one teaspoon every hour for adults. For children
above 2 years old; 3 to 4 teaspoons a day. 10 to 16 grams administered daily in boiling
decoction form, either used as inhalant or in administration by mouth of ground leaves
mixed with a little salt or in liquid form. For children, the fresh leaves are ground mixed
with honey, then steamed and used. Fifteen to 20 fresh leaves, triturate, drop in already
boiling water about 2 glassfuls, stir, remove at once from flame, cover, let cool and strain.
Special Note: Coleus amboinicus or oregano must be differentiated from Origanum
majorana and Origanum vulgare which is also known as oregano or marjoram. Origanum
majorana is native to the Mediterranean countries. It is also used as a spice and as a
medicinal plant.
7. Centella asiatica L.
Other scientific name: Hydrocotyle asiatica L.
Family: Umbelliferae
Common names: Hahanglo or hahang-halo (Central Visayas); panggaga (Subanon);
pispising (Bontoc); tagaditak (Ivatan); takip-kuhol (Tagalog); takip-suso (Tagalog),
tapingan-daga (Tagalog), yahong-yahong (Samar-Leyte Visaya); Indian hydrocotyle
(English); Indian pennywort (English); Asiatic pennywort (English); rau ma, lien tien
thao, phac chen (Vietnamese); totodro (Fiji).
Habitat: Takip-kohol is found in open, damp and wet grasslands, on rice paddy banks
throughout the Philippines. It is pantropic in distribution. It also grows in gardens, lawns,
pastures, shaded road and trailsides and fern covered ridges from sea level to lower
montane. The flowering period is from April to June.
Description: This is a small, prostrate, perennial, sparingly hairy or nearly smooth
creeping and trailing aromatic herb about 3 to 15 cm long. The stems root at the nodes
and are in the form of stolons, long runners and short rhizomes. The leaves are rounded to
reni-form, 2 to 5 cm wide, horizontal, more or less cupped, rounded at the tip, and
forming rosettes, kidney-shape or heart-shaped at the base, the rounded lobes often
overlapping. The petioles are erect and long. The peduncles occur in pairs or three’s, is
less than 1 centimeter long, and usually bear 3 sessile flowers. The petals are dark-purple,
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
ovate, and about 1 millimeter long. The fruit is a mericarp, minute, ovoid, orbicular to
ellipsoid, white or green, and reticulate, compressed each with 9 subsimilar longitudinal
ridges.
Phytochemical contents: A chemically active principle called vellarine has been
obtained from the dry plant to the extent of 0.8 to 1 per cent. It is an oily nonvolatile
liquid which is responsible for the odor of the plant.
Other chemical compositions of the leaves are: crude fiber, reducing sugars, nonreducing sugars as dextrose, and resin. There is a slight amount of volatile oil and traces
of tannin. Pectin, mucilage and ash as alkaline chlorides have also been found.
Alkaloids, saponin, calcium oxalate and amygdalin are found in the leaves and
stems. The whole plant contains essential oil, fatty oil consisting of glycerides of oleic,
linolic, linoleic, lignoceric, palmitic and stearic acids. It also has hydrocotyline,
asiaticoside that yields asiatic acid and glucose and rhamnose on hydrolysis. Others are
centelloside, centellic acid, madecassoside, phelandrine and betulinic acid.
Nutritional content: It can be eaten as a salad and vegetable. It is very rich in Vitamin
B. It also has Vitamin C, carbohydrates, fat and protein.
Medicinal Uses: The leaves of Centella asiatica have been widely regarded as having
tonic and stimulant properties.They are sometimes eaten raw, but more usually a
decoction or tea is made from them and recommended as a tonic for improving memory.
It is also known as a rejuvenating medicament.
In the Philippines, according to Guerrero, the sap of the leaves is employed as a
curative for wounds of the sclerotic. Physiologically, it acts as a stimulant to the
cutaneous circulation in skin diseases. Therefore it is very useful in wound healing as a
cicatrizant and for the treatment of chronic and obstinate eczema. It has also been used
for chronic ulcers, syphilitic sores, furunculosis, leprosy, chronic rheumatism and piles.
The pounded leaves are also applied as a poultice and act as anti inflammatory to blows,
bruises contusions, closed fractures and sprains. The powder of the plant is also
recommended in scrofula, syphilis, leprosy and sores in dose of 0.30 grams.
The plant is reputed to have a direct action on lowering of blood pressure. The
decoction is considered a diuretic. It also facilitates menstrual flow.
The leaves are also toasted and given as an infusion to children in bowel
complaints and fevers. The seeds are used for dysentery, fever and headache.
The juice, extracted from the plant, applied externally, is used for elephantiasis of
the scrotum, legs, inflammations and swellings.
Researches in Vietnam show the whole plant possesses antibacterial, anti
inflammatory, anti-febrile, diuretic and galactagogic activity. Traditionally, it is used in
the therapy of fever, measles, hematemesis, epistaxis, diarrhea, dysentery, constipation,
leucorrhea, jaundice, dysuria, dysmennorhea and varices.
Researches in the Pacific Islands found it useful in wound healing, antibacterial,
antifungal. Anticancer, anti-inflammatory, tranquilizing, smooth muscle relaxant,
antiallergic, hypotensive, antipyretic, insecticidal, peptic ulcer healing, anticonvulsant,
antiamoebic, antifertility, antispasmodic, vasodilator, antiviral, hair growth stimulation
and analgesic.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Dose: Daily, 30 to 40 grams of fresh plant in the form of extracted juice or decoction.
The leaves are official in the following Pharmacopeias: Dutch, French, Mexican,
Spanish, Venezuelan and Indian. The stem and leaves are official in the Materia Medica
of China.
8. Curcuma longa L.
Other scientific name: Curcuma xanthorrhiza Naves
Family: Zingeberaceae
Local names: Añgai (Pampanga); parák (Kuyunin;Tagalog.); diláu (Tagalog.); duláu
(Samar Leyte Visayan); kalabága (Bisaya.); kaláuag (Manobo.,Bisaya.); kinambói
(Bisaya); kulálo (Pampanga.) kulyáu (Ilokano); kúnig (Ilokano.); kúnik (Ibanag);
lampúyang (Panay Bisaya); láuag (Subanon); lúyang-diláu (Tagalog); pañgas
(Pampanga); salampauyan (Bagobo); turmeric (English).
Distribution and Cultivation: Turmeric is widely distributed in the Philippines in and
about towns, sometimes in open waste places, and cultivated for its flavor and vivid
yellow color. It is native of India and is now pantropic in distribution. It is a member of
the ginger family. The rhizomes are usually harvested from November to February. It is
propagated from its rhizomes.
Description: The rhizomes are bright yellow inside, thick, and cylindric. The plant is
leafy, 1 to 1.5 meters tall, and has 5 or 6 leaves. The green blade is oblong, 30 to 45
centimeters long, and 10 to 20 centimeters wide. The petiole is as long as the blade. The
penduncle is 15 centimeters or more in length and is borne within the tuft of leaves. The
spikes are 10 to 20 centimeters in length and about 5 centimeters in diameter. The floral
bracts are pale green, ovate, 3 to 4 centimeters long, and the combracts are tinged with
pink. The flowers are pale yellow, as long as the bracts and appear from March to May.
Culinary uses: The rhizomes of turmeric are used as a condiment and as an ingredient of
curry powder, and for coloring food. They give the bright yellow color of ceremonial rice
dishes in Southeast Asia. In Java a flour is made from the rhizomes and used for all
kinds of dainties. In Thailand, young shoots and inflorescences are boiled as a vegetable.
In Malaysia and Indonesia dishes, the fresh leaves are used as herbs.
Other commercial uses: Turmeric is one of the best known of material dyes, being used
for dyeing silk, wool, and cotton. The rhizomes are employed for dyeing mats in the
Philippines. In Sudan, the rhizome is used as a cosmetic.
Nutritional uses: It is a good source of phosphorus and iron, but hardly a fair source of
calcium.
Phytochemical contents: The rhizomes contain volatile oil, 1 to 5 per cent with turmerol
(alcohol), d-oc-phellandrene, carvone, curcumene, cineol. They also contain fat, 3
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
percent; starch, 30 per cent; camphor; resin; curcumin; calcium chloride, glysoside,
saponin and yellow coloring matter.
Pharmacopeias: The rhizomes have been reported official in the following
Pharmacopoeias; Austrian (1-5); Belgian, (1-3); Danish (1-6); Dutch (4); Finnish (1-3);
French (1-5); German (1); Indian; Mexican (1-4); Norwegian (1); Rumanian (1, 2);
Russian (1-3); Serbian (1); Spanish (2-6); Swedish (1-5); Swiss (1, 2); United States (16); and Venezuelan (1-2).
Medicinal Uses: The parts used medicinally are the rhizomes, which are prepared as
powder, paste, ointment, oil, lotion, inhalant, and confection. The action is aromatic,
stimulant, tonic, and carminative. It facilitates the flow of menstruation. It is used as a
cordial and as astringent.
In India the juice of the fresh rhizome is applied externally to recent wounds,
bruises, and leech-bites. Turmeric paste mixed with a little lime and saltpeter and applied
hot is a popular application to sprains and bruises. In chicken pox a coating of turmeric
powder or thin paste is applied to facilitate the process of scabbing. A paste made of the
flowers is used in ringworm and other parasitic skin diseases. A decoction of turmeric is
used in purulent conjunctivitis. The use of the decoction (1-20 parts) especially in
catarrhal and purulent ophthalmia, applied externally over the affected eye on a piece of
soft cloth. An ointment is used in neuralgia and rheumatism.
In the Philippines the rhizomes with coconut oil are considered stomachic and
vulnerary. Internally, the juice of the fresh rhizome acts as an anthelmintic. The rhizome
is also administered in intermittent fevers. It is also given for flatulence, dyspepsia, and a
weak state of the stomach. The Chinese regard turmeric as useful against colic,
amenorrhoea, and congestions. The fume of burning turmeric is used as an inhalation in
catarrh or severe colds in the head. The Malays use turmeric as a carminative, and for
dispelling flatulence in children. It is given as a carminative, antispasmodic, and in
diarrhoea and dysentery.
In the Pacific Islands, its biological activity has been known for the following:
anti-inflammatory, increases bile production, antibacterial, fungistatic, uterine stimulant,
anti-yeast, weak antimycobacterial, anti-amoebic, antioxidant, anti-ulcer and
antinematodal.
In Vietnam, it is well known for its anti-gastric ulcer, anti-inflammatory and
cholagogic properties. It is prescribed in gastric and duodenal ulcers, hepatitis, jaundice,
menstrual disorders, post-partum or menstrual irregularities, contusions, rheumatism,
pain in the extremities, boils and impetigo. It is also used as a poultice for wounds to
avoid their cicatrisation.
Dosage: Daily, 4 to 12 grams in the form of powder or extract
17
Section 1. Medicinal Plants
9. Lagerstroemia speciosa L
Family: Lythraceae
Genus: Lagerstroemia Linnaeus
Local names: Agaro (Sbl.); bugarom (S. L. Bix.); banaba (Tag., and many othe
rdialects); duguam (S. L. Bix.); kauilan (P. Bix.); makablos (Pang.); mitla (Pamp.);
nabulong (Neg.); pamalauagon (S. L. Bix.); pamarauagon (S. L. Bix.); parasabukung
(Sub.); tabañgau (Ibn., Neg.); tauagnau (Ibn.).
Habitat: Banaba is found in the Batan Islands and northern Luzon to Palawan,
Mindanao, and the Sulu Archipelago, in most or all Islands and provinces, chiefly in
secondary forests at low and medium altitudes. It is also reported to occur in India to
southern China and southward through Malaya to tropical Australia.
Description: This is a deciduous tree growing from 5 to 20 meters in height. The bark is
smooth, gray to cream-colored, and peels off in irregular flakes. The leaves are smooth,
oblong to elliptic-ovate, and 12 to 25 centimeters long. The flowers are 6-parted, purplish
lilac or mauve-pink, rarely pink, 5 to 7.5 centimeters across, and borne in large, terminal
panicle up to 40 centimeters in length. The petals are oblong-obovate or obovate, shortly
clawed, and 2 to 3.5 centimeters long; the margins are undulate and hardly fimbriate. The
fruit is a large capsule, obovoid or ellipsoid, and 2 to 3.5 centimeters long. The seed is
pale brown, with a wing 12 to 18 millimeters long.
Phytochemical contents: In Burmese studies, the fruit contains 14.26 to 17.28 per cent
of tannin; the leaves 12.83 to 13.3 per cent; and the bark 10 per cent. In the Philippines,
chemical and pharmacological studies of the leaves a large amount of tannin, a moderate
amount of glucose, and a small amount, if any, of glucoside. Saponin is found in the
stems.
The old leaves and ripe fruit are the parts of banabá that contain the greatest
amount of an insulin-like principle. Twenty grams of old leaves of fruit, dried from one
to two weeks, in the form of 100cc. of 20 per cent decoction were found to have the
activity equivalent to from 6 to 7.7 units of insulin in lowering blood sugar.
The mature leaves, young leaves, and flowers have an activity that range from 4.4
to 5.4 units of insulin per 100cc. of 20 per cent decoction, or equivalent to around 70 per
cent of the activity of the leaves or fruit. The wood does not contain the insulin-like
principle while the bark and roots contain a very small amount.
Medicinal uses: In the Philippines, banaba is a popular medicinal plant. A decoction of
the leaves of all ages is used for diabetes mellitus. It is prepared and taken like tea. Oral
administration of a decoction of banabá with doses equivalent to 1 or 2 gm. of dried
leaves per kg. body weight reduces blood sugar from 16 to 49 mg. of glucose per 100cc.
The bark is also a stimulant and a febrifuge. A decoction of the bark used also for
abdominal pains. A infusion is taken to stop diarrhoea. A decoction of the roots is used
against small ulcers of the mouth. A decoction of the leaves as diuretic. The bark,
leaves, and flowers are given as a purgative. The seeds possess narcotic properties and
are employed against aphthae.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Other uses: Banaba is cultivated in Manila for its beautiful flowers. It makes an
excellent avenue tree and very effective when massed in parks. Banaba is also useful as a
timber tree.
10. Moringa oleifera Lam.
Family: Moringaceae
Genus: Moringa Burman
Other scientific names: Guilandina moringa Linn.; Moringa pterygosperma Gaertn.;
Moringa nux-ben Perr.
Local names: Arunggai (Pangasinan.); baluñgai (Bicol.); dool (Pampango, Bisaya.);
kalamuñgai (Panay. Bisaya.); kaluñgai (Bikol., Bisaya., Tagalog.); kamaloñgan (Panay.
Bisaya.); kamluñgai (Pampango., Tagalog.) komkompilan (Ilokano.); maloñgai
(Tagalog); maluñgai (Tagalog); maluñgit (Pampango., Bisaya.); maroñgoi (Sbl.);
marungai (Ilokano., Ibanag.); ben oil tree (English);horse-radish tree (English.).
Habitat: Malunggay is planted throughout the Philippines in settled areas at low and
medium altitudes. It was introduced from tropical Asia or Malaya in the prehistoric
period, and is now pantropic in cultivation. It is propagated by its cuttings and by its
seeds.
Description: The plant is a small tree, 8 meters or less in height, with corky bark and
soft, white wood. The leaves are alternate, usually thrice pinnate, and 25 to 50
centimeters long. There are three to nine leaflets on the ultimate pinnules. These leaflets
are thin, ovate to elliptic, and 1 to 2 centimeters long on spreading panicles. The flowers
are white and fragrant, 1.5 to 2 cm long. The pod is 15 to 30 centimeters long, pendulous,
three-angled, and nine-ribbed. The seeds are three-angled, and winged on the angles.
Nutritional and Food Uses: The young leaves, flowers and young pods are widely used
as a vegetable in the Philippines, Malaya and India. Malunggay leaves are a good source
of phosphorus, ascorbic acid, calcium, and iron, and are eaten to increase the amount of
breast milk. The young fruit is high in protein, a fair source of calcium and iron and high
in phosphorus. In Malaya, the seeds are eaten like peanuts. The roots are used for
seasoning. In India, the roots are eaten as a substitute for horse-radish.
Other uses: The wood and bark are used for dyeing blue color in Jamaica. The tree is
often used as a fence material in the Philippines. The ben oil from the seeds, with its
absence of color, smell and taste renders it peculiarly adapted for use in the enfleurage
process of extracting perfumes.
Phytochemical contents: The bark contains a white crystalline alkaloid, 2 resins and
inorganic acid, mucilage and ask 8 per cent. The root yields an essential oil which is very
pungent and offensive in odor. The seed contains traces of an acrid and pungent alkaloid,
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Ben or Behen oil is said to contain the glycerides of margaric, oleic, palmitic, stearic and
behenic acid. The husked seeds yield a fixed oil 30.2 per cent. The gum contains
bassorin, dextrin, enzyme myrosin, emulsin and moringo-tannic acid. The bark exudes a
reddish gum with the properties of tragacanth, which serves for tanning. The stem
contains tannin, sulfur, calcium oxalate, perioxidase and pectin substances.
Pharmacopeia: The seeds are official in the French Pharmacopeia; the seed oil in the
French and Danish Pharmacopeias.
Medicinal Uses: Its roots are traditionally used to soothe swellings by way of a soft,
heated preparation spread on cloth. The root, if chewed and applied to the bite of a snake,
will prevent the poison from spreading. It is regarded as an acrid, pungent remedy which
is stimulant and diuretic; as a decoction for hiccoughs, asthma, gout, lumbago,
rheumatism, enlarged spleen or liver and internal and deep-seated inflammations, as an
effective gargle, and a fomentation to relieve spasms. The root decoction is used to
cleanse sores and ulcers; as antiscorbutic and also given to delirious patients; as an
effective gargle.
The bark is used as a rubefacient remedy being applied externally in the form of a
plaster as a counter irritant.
The young leaves are more popularly known as a galactagogue, which means
increasing the flow of breastmilk. The leaves are used as a poultice wounds and in
reducing glandular swellings. It is also said to have purgative and anti-scabies properties.
The flowers are used for catarrh. The juice extracted from the flowers is diuretic,
antihelminthic, digestive and anti-asthmatic.
The pods have antihelmintic properties and are administered in affections of the
liver and spleen, in articular pains due to gout or rheumatism. They are also used as a
water filter.
The ben oil from the seeds is valuable for ointments since it can be kept for
almost any length of time without undergoing oxidation. It is used as an external
application for rheumatism and as a rubefacient.
1.3. FRUITS THAT HEAL
Together with medicinal plants and herbal medicines are fruits that have medicinal
properties. They are easier to utilize since they are familiar to all of us. There have been growing
scientific evidence that the medicinal plants that our forefathers, grandmothers and traditional
healers have used are indeed effective and safe.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables daily. This is my consistent advice to all those who
want to keep themselves well and healthy. Evidence-based medicine has proven that the daily
intake of fruits and vegetables prevents heart disease, hypertension and cancer, particularly colon
cancer. The latest researches show also that this daily habit, together with exercise, contribute to
the slowing down of the ageing process.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Fruits contain generous amounts of potassium, magnesium and calcium. These minerals
are valuable in the prevention and lowering of high blood pressure and heart disease. The fruits
that are high in potassium are: avocados, bananas, coconuts, guavas, mangos, melons, papayas,
all the different varieties of oranges, strawberries and watermelons.
Cashew nuts, sesame seed and soy beans are excellent sources of magnesium. The
bignay, duhat, guava, papaya, pineapple and pomelo are rich sources of calcium. All fruits
contain plenty of anti-oxidants and phytochemicals that play a role in the prevention of cancers.
The Philippines abounds in fruits all year round. There should be no reason for the
Filipino not to have a fruit in every meal of the day. I encourage everyone to make fruit
eating or fresh fruit juice drinking a daily meal habit.
For those already in the fruit eating habit, have you ever tried to be a fruitarian for a day?
That means eating only fruits or drinking fresh fruit juice without added sugar all day long. This
is one of the cleansing diet I recommend to detoxify our bodies at least once a month. Try it and
you will feel a great difference in your physical, mental and emotional health.
Native/indigenous Philippine guava (Psidium guajava L.) or Bayabas.
Nutrition. The ripe guava fruit is one of the best sources of natural Vitamin C. It is also
rich in calcium, niacin, phosphorus, potassium and dietary fiber. It also contains iron and
Vitamin A. All these nutrients help make our skin, bones, teeth and blood healthy. They
provide 62 kilocalories per 100 grams.
Medicinal Substances. Guava contains tannin, volatile and fixed oil, saponin, mallic
acid, citric acid, sitosterol, eugenol, phenol, aldehyde and pectin. These are also called
phytochemicals.
Guava Cure. The unripe guava fruit and also the leaves and bark of the tree are excellent
as wound wash, as mouth wash for sore gums or gingivitis, sore throat and toothache.
They are also very effective for diarrhea, vomiting and stomach ache.
How is the guava fruit cure prepared? In using the unripe fruit, choose only the
ones with smooth and shiny skin and not the ones which have spots or mottled skin.
Wash with clean water. Chop into small pieces. Pound and grind into a powder. Mix
seven tablespoons of the powdered fruit and two glasses of water into a cooking pot.
Bring to a boil over a low flame for five minutes. Do not cover the cooking pot while
boiling. Strain. Wait till the decoction cools. Use as a wound wash or a mouth wash three
times a day.
Guava Leaves. If the leaves are used, choose only the fresh ones. Discard those with any
stain or parts already eaten by insects. Wash with clean water. Slice the leaves into small
pieces. Mix one handful of chopped leaves into two glasses of water into a cooking pot.
Bring to a boil over a low flame until the decoction becomes only one glass. Do not cover
the cooking pot while boiling. Strain and cool. For diarrhea, vomiting or stomach ache,
drink eight tablespoons for adults; 4 tablespoons for children aged 7 to 12 years; two
tablespoons for children aged 2 to 6 years.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
The leaf decoction can also be used as wound wash and mouth wash. The very
young leaves and shoots of the guava, after washing with clean water, can also be chewed
for a relief for tooth ache. Do not swallow the leaves.
Guava Bark. The bark of the guava tree, which usually peels by itself, is used in the
same way as the leaves. The dose of its decoction is used also in the same manner.
All decoction must be used within twenty four hours. At best and to maintain their
freshness, keep them refrigerated or store in a cool place during the day.
Guava Toothbrush. Cut a soft branch and distal stem of the guava. Remove the side
branches and wash with clean water. Pound the tip of the stem until it becomes a brush.
This can now be used as a toothbrush and gumbrush. There is no need to use toothpaste
since the stem contains tannin, volatile oil and saponin which are medicinal cleaning
substances.
Other Uses. A warm decoction of the leaves can be used as an aromatic bath. The leaf
decoction can also be used as a vaginal wash after childbirth.
Storage. The powdered fruit can be oven dried or sun dried to remove its moisture. The
leaves can be air dried and then powdered. Store in colored glass bottles. Include a piece
of charcoal into the bottles to prevent the formation of molds. Label accordingly with its
name and date prepared. Keep in cool places away from any sunlight. The dried
powdered guava fruits, leaves and bark can be used as a decoction.
Propagation. The native guava is easy to propagate even in urban areas. The seeds of the
ripe fruit are used. Plant on the ground or in a large pot or can.
Tamarind or sampalok (Tamarindus indica L.)
Fruit use. The traditional medicinal use of tamarind fruit is for fever. The fruit pulp is
pressed in water and together with the juice produced is taken as a drink. For
constipation, just eat the ripe fruit liberally followed by a glass or two of water. The fruit
can be made into a hot tea and then used to expel intestinal gas and to aid digestion.
Leaf use. The fresh leaves are boiled and used as a bath for mothers who have just given
birth and for those who are recovering from an illness. I frequently use the fresh new
leaves of the tamarind for cough. Boil over a low flame three handful of leaves in two
glasses of water for 15 minutes. Do not cover the pot while boiling. Cool and then strain.
Drink 10 tablespoons of the decoction for adults; 5 tablespoons for children 7 to 12 years
old; 2 and a half tablespoons for children 2 to 6 years old. Take these recommended
dosages 3 to 4 times a day.
The tamarind leaves are used as part of a popular herbal medicine medley called
SLK (or Sampalok, Luya and Kalamansi) syrup. This preparation originated from the
health workers of the Community Based Health Programs of Bukidnon province in
Mindanao.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Here is how to prepare SLK. Get a thumb size piece of luya (ginger or Zingiber
officinale Rosc.). Cut this into small pieces and boil together with the three handful of
fresh new tamarind leaves into two glasses of water. Keep the flame low while boiling
the uncovered pot and wait until only one glass of water is left. Strain and mix one half
glass of brown sugar into the decoction. Bring the preparation back into a low flame, this
time continuously stirring the decoction with a wooden spoon until it becomes syrupy.
Remove from the flame and add the juice of 7 pieces of kalamansi (Citrus microcarpa
Bunge). Mix well and allow to cool.
If you want the SLK syrup to last for a week or more, you will have to keep the
decoction syrup in a sterilized colored bottle to avoid spoilage. Keep refrigerated for a
longer shelf life. The dosage for cough is: 2 tablespoons for adults 3 to 4 times a day
while for children 2 teaspoons 4 times a day.
Nutrition use. The tamarind fruit is rich in Vitamin B and C. The young leaves are high
in Vitamin A.
Medicinal substances. The pulp contains potassium bitartrate, tannin and pectin. The
leaves have volatile oils that have antibacterial action.
Atis (Anona squamosa L.)
Another popular Philippine fruit is the atis (Anona squamosa L.) After eating the
fruit, do not throw away the seeds. They are used for head and body lice. Ground the
seeds into a powder. Boil equal amounts of powdered seeds and coconut or baby oil. For
example, if you have 10 tablespoons of powdered seeds, use also 10 tablespoons of
coconut or baby oil. Boil for three minutes. Cool. Apply the atis seed oil extract to the
scalp, hair and other body parts affected by lice. Keep overnight. Shampoo and bathe in
the morning. Repeat this procedure from three to seven days depending on the severity of
the infestation.
Traditionally, the fresh leaves are used as an abdominal poultice for indigestion
and to expel intestinal gas. The decoction of the unripe fruit has been used as a wound
wash.
Atis is a good source of Vitamin C and carbohydrates. Research findings show
that the seeds contain the following: alkaloid, neutral resin, fixed oil and an irritant
poison which kills lice. The fruits contain glucose, fructose and pectin.
Avocado (Persea Americana Mill.)
Nutritionwise, the fruit is a rich source of Vitamin A and Vitamin B complex
especially niacin, pyridoxine and panthothenic acid. It is also high in iron, potassium and
phosphate. Among all local fruits, the avocado has the highest fat content. But never fear
since all these fats are the good kind of cholesterol. The fatty acids are mainly linoleic
and palmitoleic acids. It also contains an unusual sugar called d-manno-heptulose.
Protein content is 1.3 to 6 percent. Every kilo of the fruit gives 800 to 1,000 calories.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Medicinal uses. The bark and the leaves contain volatile oils and tannin. Extracts of the
fruits and seeds have been reported to exhibit anti-bacterial activity. For arthritis and
rheumatism, the seed of the fruit and the bark of the tree are used. Chop these into pieces
and pound into a powder. Cook with equal amounts of coconut or baby oil for three
minutes. Strain, cool and apply as liniment to the affected areas. For diarrhea, a decoction
of the leaves of the avocado is used. For wound wash, boil enough leaves in a small pot
of water. Use as wash when lukewarm or cool. A mild tea of avocado leaves is also
soothing and relaxing.
Anonas (Anona reticulata L.)
The fruit is a good source of Vitamin C and carbohydrates. The fruit is rich in
pectin. It contains 6.2 percent dextrose and 4.2 percent levulose. For diarrhea, the nearly
ripe fruit is eaten as tolerated. The bark contains tannic acid and alkaloid. For wound
wash, a decoction of the bark is used. The seeds of the anonas contain an alkaloid that has
insecticidal properties against scabies and hair lice.
Balimbing (Averrhoa carambola L.)
The fresh fruit is usually eaten with salt. It can be made into pickles and sweets.
The juice is often used for seasoning. It is a fair source of iron, Vitamins B and C. It also
contains oxalic acid and potassium oxalate. For fever, a cooling drink is prepared by
crushing 2 to 3 ripe fruits in a glass of water. Add sugar to taste. Our traditional healers
have used the poultice of the fruit for bleeding hemorrhoids. The fruit is also eaten to
stimulate the appetite, regular the flow of saliva and promote bowel movement.
Bignay (Antidesma bunius L.)
The ripe fruit is eaten with salt or prepared into jam and wine. It is a very good
source of calcium and a fair source of iron. The recommended medicinal use is for fever.
Mash a handful of ripe fruits in a glass of water. Add sugar to taste.
Duhat (Syzygium cumini L.)
The ripe fruits are eaten as such, often shaken with salt. They are also made into a
juice or a wine. They contain calcium and iron. The bark, leaves and flowers contain
tannin. For diarrhea, eat liberally the fleshy portion of the fruit or boil chopped fresh
leaves in 2 glasses of water for 15 minutes. Cool and strain. Divide the decoction into 4
parts and take one part every 2 to 3 hours. For wounds, skin ulcers and sore gums, boil 2
handfuls of chopped leaves in a small pot of water for 5 minutes. Cool and strain. Use as
wash or gargle. Our traditional healers have used various parts of the duhat for diabetes.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
The decoction of the bark or powdered seeds are used. The fruit is eaten liberally.
However, scientific research still has to be done on the use of duhat for diabetes.
Granada (Punica granatum L.)
The fruit is a good source of Vitamin C, carbohydrates and iron. The bark
contains alkaloid, tannin and glucoside. The bark has been found to have anti fungal and
antibacterial activity. The fresh juice is taken for nausea and indigestion. A decoction of
the dried fruit is taken to relieve stomach ache. The bark is wash, pounded and used as a
poultice for fungal infection of the skin.
Guyabano (Anona muricata L.)
The fruit is eaten raw when ripe. It is rich in sugar, Vitamins B and C. The unripe
fruit is made into lumpia, ginataan or ginulay just like jackfruit or langka. The leaves
contain essential oil and resin. The bark contains a poisonous alkaloid. The seed contains
an irritant oil which kills lice. Our traditional healers have used the unripe fruit to stop
diarrhea.
Kamias (Averrhoa bilimbi L.)
The fruit is rich in Vitamin C. It is commonly used as a flavoring for cooking. The
recommended medicinal use is for fever. Mash 2 to 3 ripe fruits in a glass of water. Add
sugar to taste. Our traditional healers have used the decoction of the leaves as a bath after
childbirth. A tea infusion of the flowers is used for cough.
Kasoy (Anacardium occidentale L.)
The fresh fruit is rich in Vitamin C. The nuts are rich in oil. Young cashew leaves
are high in Vitamins A and C. These are eaten as salad with fish sauce, tomatoes and
onions. When eating the fruit, the pericarp, which contains a poisonous oil (cardol and
anacardic acid) that causes itching and skin irritation, is removed first and only the inner
core of the fruit is taken in. The recommended medicinal use is for sore gums and
toothache. Gargle a dilute infusion of the leaves and retain in the mouth for a few
minutes. Do not swallow the solution. Our traditional healers have used the oil of the nut
for blisters, corns and sores. The inside of the outer cover of the nut contains a caustic
solution that burns the skin. This has been used to remove warts and moles. The fruit
juice is taken to induce perspiration and to increase the amount of urine. A tincture of the
fruit is taken to expel intestinal worms.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Kaymito (Chrysophyllum cainito L.)
The fruit contains sugar and fiber. The bark, leaves and stem contain tannin. The
leaves also contain alkaloids and a bitter principle. The seeds contain saponin and also a
bitter principle. The recommended medicinal use is for diarrhea. Eat the ripe fruit as
tolerated or boil 2 handfuls of chopped fresh leaves in 2 glasses of water for 15 minutes.
Cool and strain. Divide decoction into 4 parts. Take one part every 2 to 3 hours.
Mangga (Mangifera indica L.)
The fruit and young leaf tops are excellent sources of Vitamins A, B and C. The
leaves contain volatile oil which has been found to be effective for cough. Boil over a
low flame chopped young leaves in 2 glasses of water for 15 minutes. Cool and strain.
Divide the decoction into 3 parts. Take one part 3 times a day. Traditional healers
prescribe the ripe fruits to relieve indigestion and constipation. The decoction of the seed
and bark is used as a wound wash.
Mangostan (Garcinia mangostana L.)
The rind of the fruit is mainly used for diarrhea. Boil chopped fruit rind in 2
glasses of water for 15 minutes. Cool and strain. Divide the decoction into 4 parts and
take one part every 2 to 3 hours. Traditionally, the decoction of the bark and leaves is
taken in for fever while the decoction of the fruit rind is used as a wound wash.
Oranges
All kinds of Philippine grown oranges like the dalanghita, dayap, kabuyaw,
kalamansi, sintones and suha. They all belong to the botanical family Rutaceae and the
species Citrus. The fruit pulp contains Vitamins A, B and C, citric acid, iron, calcium,
phosphorus, potassium, hesperidin, protein, sugar, peroxidase and pectin. The rind has
volatile oils, citral, aldehydes, tannin, pectin, peroxidase and glucosides. The leaves
contain volatile oil.
Recommended medicinal uses of citrus fruits:
For nausea and fainting: squeeze a piece of fresh rind and let the person inhale it.
As an aromatic bath, squeeze the fruit to water and use as a bath. Boil two
handfuls of fresh leaves in a big pot of water for 5 minutes. Cool. Use decoction
as bath. This is especially good for the newly delivered mother or a person just
recovering from an illness. For fever, cough and sore throat as cooling drink:
squeeze fresh fruit in a glass of water. Add sugar to taste and drink.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Papaya (Carica papaya L.)
The ripe fruit is an excellent source of Vitamin A, B and C. It also contains a fair
amount of iron and calcium. The green fruit is a good source of Vitamin B. The leaves
contain calcium. Research findings show that papain is found in the roots, stem, leaf and
fruit of the papaya. Papain is a proteolytic enzyme which has laxative, anti helminthic
and anti-inflammatory properties. Recommended medicinal uses: For debridement,
removal of purulent exudates and blood clots from wounds and ulcers: apply latex of
unripe fruit or trunk on the wound or ulcer. Wash the latex off after 15 minutes. For
constipation: eat the ripe fruit liberally.
Pinya or Pineapple (Ananas comosus L.)
The ripe fruit is an excellent source of Vitamin A, a good amount of Vitamin B
and some amount of calcium and iron. Research findings show that the juice is the source
of the enzyme bromelin, which is anti helminthic and anti-inflammatory. Detectable
amounts of pectic substances in the leaves have also been found.
Our traditional healers have used the juice of the leaves and eating of the young fruit to
expel intestinal worms.
Saging (Musa sapientum L.)
Bananas are extremely nutritious. They are rich in potassium, glucose, fructose,
sucrose, starch, protein, riboflavin, niacin and dietary fiber. They are good sources of
Vitamins A and C and contain iron, calcium, phosphorus and carbohydrates. Bananas
have a high grade protein that includes three of the essential amino acids. They have a
high energy value with 99 kilocalories per 100g of fruit.
Research findings show that the fruit contains serotonin which has an anti-stress
factor, a sedative property and an effect on migraine. It also contain the phytochemical
fructooligosaccharide, which is a sweet tasting nutiritional fiber that appears to be useful
in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in the colon.
Medicinally, the ripe fruit is eaten for diarrhea and dysentery. The unripe fruit is
sliced into pieces, sun-dried, powdered. To ensure the removal of any moisture, the
powdered fruit is re-sun-dried or oven baked, then stored in amber colored bottles. They
become handy by mixing three tablespoonful of the powdered fruit in a glass of water for
diarrhea and hyperacidity.
The other parts of the banana plant are also useful for healing, as used by our
traditional healers. The juice of the roots, together with the mucilage, is used to stop
bleeding. It is also used for fever. The freshly cut trunks are used to wrap a patient with
high fever. The leaves are applied to relieve headache and also as a cool dressing for
inflamed and blistered skin. The flower is eaten to promote menstruation. The sap of the
flower head is applied in the forehead for headache.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Tsiko (Achras zapota L.)
The fruit, also known as sapodilla, is fairly rich in Vitamin B and carbohydrates.
Research findings show that the bark contains tannin, saponin and sapotin. The seed
contains sapotin, saponin, achrasaponin, sapotinine, alkaloid and fixed oil.
The traditional uses of the fruit are: it is eaten to control dysentery; to relieve
fever and to prevent diseases of the liver and gall bladder. A decoction of the bark is used
as a wash for wounds and skin ulcers; as gargle in sore throat; as nasal lavage in rhinitis;
as a wash for the swelling of the middle and outer ear; as a vaginal wash; as enema for
diarrhea and dysentery; to relieve abdominal pain and fever. A decoction of the seed is
used to increase the amount of urine.
Fruits are a feast to behold! They are nature’s most abundant and versatile creation. They
come in a variety of colors, sizes, shapes, scents and flavors. Fruits lift the spirit, whet the
appetite and burst the body with natural energy. They are thirst quenchers when eaten fresh and
raw. They are the best as daily guilt-free snacks and desserts.
Ever wonder why people who eat a heavy dose of fruits together with vegetables, nuts
and whole grains live longer and better? Aside from the essential life giving vitamins, minerals,
sugars, trace elements and enzymes that they offer, fruits contain bountiful phytochemicals.
Phyto is derived from the Greek word meaning plant. The phytochemicals in fruits are
substances responsible for their healing properties. Thus, fruits not only provide good nutrition,
but excellent protection from illnesses and disease.
Presently in vogue are the terms nutraceuticals and pharmafoods. These are words that
merge nutrients and pharmaceuticals in an effort to describe a food’s ability to act as both a
nutrient and a medicine. In ancient times, fruits were regarded as magical and divine. Their
nectar and ambrosia form the base of the food of the gods. Whatever are the terms attributed to
fruits, they are definitely food and medicine for the soul, heart, body and mind. Let fruits be a
daily part of our life.
1.4. VEGETABLES THAT HEAL
Ampalaya
Research has shown that Ampalaya leaves are effective diabetes cures. Wash the
leaves well and chop into small pieces. Take about six spoonfuls of the chopped leaves
and boil in two glasses of water for 15 minutes in low fire. Important: do not cover the
pan while boiling the mixture. Cool and strain into a clean container. Drink the mixture
three times a day before meals. Ampalaya tops can also be steamed and eaten. Take one
half glassful of the steamed Ampalaya tops twice a day.
Ampalaya has other healing properties. Juice squeezed out of fresh Ampalaya
leaves can be applied on wounds. For scabies: warm the leaf over low fire, apply oil on
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
the leaf, and put on affected parts. For worms: pound the leaves to extract the juice.
Take one teaspoon of the juice with one teaspoon of coconut milk daily.
Aside from its healing properties Ampalaya fruit, young leaves, and flower of the
Ampalaya are good sources of calcium, iron, phosphorus, Vitamin A and folic acid.
Squash
Squash seeds are used to eliminate tapeworms. Pound about 15-25 shelled seeds
and mix with milk or water sweetened with some sugar. Drink the mixture when the
stomach is empty. Follow up with a purgative after 1-2 hours. Research has also shown
that the zinc in the seeds help prevent prostate enlargement in males.
Nutritive value: squash sprouts have high calcium, phosporus, iron and Vitamin B
content. The flower is rich in Vitamin A and calcium while the fruit itself is rich in iron,
phosphorus, calcium and Vitamin A.
Kangkong
Kangkong is good for constipation. Eat 1-2 cups of steamed kangkong leaves
during dinner followed by as much water as you need. Another way is to eat a plateful of
fresh kangkong tops that have been slowly fried in ½ teaspoon of oil flavored with a few
cloves of garlic.
Kangkong is also an excellent source for iron, calcium, Vitamins A, B and C,
phosphorus, potassium and iodine.
Carrot
Carrot is good for diarrhea. Boil one whole carrot until soft enough to mash. Eat
the mashed carrot. The carrot is a good vegetable source of iron, calcium, phosphorus,
and Vitamins A and B.
Celery
Celery has been found to be helpful in high blood pressure. Take 1-2 fresh celery
stalks daily. Celery is a good source of Vitamins A, B, C and E, calcium, phosphorus,
iron and potassium.
Malunggay
Malunggay indicated for constipation, rheumatism, scabies, bleeding wounds, and
to increase lactation. For constipation: take 1-2 cups of cooked leaves for dinner.
Rheumatism: toast malunggay seeds, pound into powder, and apply on the affected part.
Scabies: pound fresh malunggay leaves and apply the juice on the affected part 2-3 times
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
a day. Bleeding wounds: wash malunggay leaves, pound into a poultice and apply on the
wound. To increase lactation: Eat at least one cup of cooked malunggay leaves everyday.
Malunggay seeds can also be used to clear up murky water while it eliminates
about 99% of the microbes in the water. Soak the seeds until the water clears up.
Malunggay leaves are very rich in calcium, iron, potassium, and Vitamins A and C.
1.5. FLAVORS AND SPICES THAT HEAL
Spices and flavors have been popular for centuries because they provide excitement and
liveliness to food, eating and dining. Taking spices and flavors as medicine can also add zest and
pizzazz to your health and wellness. While spices make food more flavorful, with its blend of
aromas permeating the air, these very same spices provide health and healing to lovers of
gourmet cooking and patrons of good cuisine. Spices have been used for centuries in a variety of
ways. Aside from flavoring food and as medicine, they have been ingredients in magic potions,
breath sweeteners and perfumes.
Anis (Foeniculum vulgare Gaertn)
Also known as fennel, anis is usually good for gas pain. Soak one fourth teaspoon
of the dried crushed fruit in one half cup of hot water for 30 minutes. Drink as an
infusion. Another use of anis is for fainting. Just inhale the crushed fruit or seed and
voila! The fainting spell is gone!
Atsuete (Bixa orellana L.)
Research findings show that the seeds have some antibiotic properties due to its
volatile fatty oil with palmitin and stearin alkaloids, saponin and tannin. Atsuete seeds, or
otherwise known as annatto are mainly used in the Philippines to give an attractive
reddish and orange color to certain dishes. The seeds’ coloring matter is bixin.
The main medicinal use is as a wound wash or a gargle for sore throat. Boil one
tablespoon of seeds in two glasses of water until it becomes one glass. Cool then use
accordingly.
Bawang (Allium sativum L.) or Garlic.
Research findings have shown that garlic has cholesterol lowering properties. The
bulb contains allicin, volatile oil, sulfides, protein, fat, carbohydrates, choline and
myrosinase. Allicin has been found to inhibit a broad variety of bacteria, fungi and
protozoa.
Other researchers abroad have reported garlic to lower blood sugar, prevent the
accumulation of fats in the blood vessels and increase the amount of urine. It has anti-
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
clotting properties and also anti-obesity action. Garlic has been studied to expel gas from
the alimentary canal. It also expels intestinal worms, induces excessive perspiration and
expels mucus acting as an expectorant.
Garlic is rich in calcium, iron, phosphorus, vitamins A, B and C. Its fresh leaves
are also eaten as a vegetable.
Recommended medicinal uses:
a. For lowering of blood cholesterol: eat two roasted pieces of the clove three
times a day after meals.
b. For headache, insect bites and rheumatism: Crush enough fresh cloves, mix
with a few drops of baby oil and rub on affected areas.
c. For skin fungal infections: Boil for a minute, one tablespoon of crushed cloves
in one tablespoon of coconut oil or baby oil. Cool and apply three times a day on
affected skin areas.
d. For toothache: Insert a small piece of fresh clove into the aching tooth.
e. For cough to expel phlegm: Mix one teaspoon of crushed cloves with honey.
Drink three to four times a day after meals.
Tincture of Atsuete and Bawang. I usually ask households to make their own tincture
with bixa seeds and crushed garlic cloves. As an alcohol base, I recommend using gin or
lambanog. For every one part of bixa seeds and crushed garlic cloves, use ten parts of gin
or lambanog. For example: For every one tablespoon of mixed bixa seeds and crushed
garlic cloves, use ten tablespoonful of gin or lambanog.Place in an amber glass. Shake for
three minutes everyday for 7 days before using. Externally, the tincture can be used for
wounds, fungal skin infections and insect bites. Internally, as a mouth wash or toothache,
add ten drops of the tincture in one half glass of water and then gargle.
Dilaw. (Curcuma longa L.) or turmeric.
The rhizome is used as a coloring agent and flavoring for many dishes. It is a
good source of phosphorus and iron. The rhizome contains volatile oil, fat, starch, resin
and cucurmin which give the characteristic yellow pigment.
Recommended medicinal uses:
a. For wounds as an antiseptic. Crush the fresh rhizome and apply on the wound.
b. For gas pain in adults: Boil a thumb sized piece of rhizome in a glass of water
until it becomes one half glass. Drink the decoction.
c. For chest pain, sprains, swellings and joint pains. Extract the juice from the
rhizome and apply on the affected areas.
Kamatis or tomato (Lycopersicon lycopersicum L. or Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)
Tomato, botanically, is really a fruit although most of us refer to it as a vegetable.
However, it has been mainly use in the kitchen as a spice and a flavoring. The fruit
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
contains organic acids (malic acid, citric acid, oxalic acid), iron, potassium, calcium,
phosphorous, vitamins A. B, and C and trace elements of chlorine and sulphur. The
unripe fruit and leaves have tomatin, an antibiotic which is reasonably effective against
some fungi causing skin diseases. Tomatin also has some antihistaminic activity. The
leaves are also a good source of iron and phosphorus. The seeds contain globulin, amino
acids, Vitamin A, B, and C, solanine and tomatin.
Tomato, whether raw, cooked, dried or as a juice, sauce, paste or jam, has now
become more popular due to its anti-oxidant content called lycophene. Research findings
show that lycophene has the ability to reduce the risk of myocardial infarct (heart attack)
and prostate cancer as well as lung, stomach and gland cancers. Lycophene is also found
in mushroom, watermelon and grapefruit.
Medicinal uses of tomato: Slices of the fresh fruit are used as a poultice for skin
infections and for mild skin burns. Because of its alkalinity, it is useful for any excess
acid production in the body. Eating a tomato in the morning or drinking a glassful of
fresh tomato juice or just including tomato in your daily diet, is nutritiously excellent as
well as very good in the prevention of diseases of the heart, prostate, liver and intestines.
Kamias (Averrhoa bilimbi L.)
Kamias is mainly a Southeast Asian fruit and therefore has no English equivalent.
Kamias is mainly cooked to make pickles and sambal. It is a main flavoring for sinigang
(sour soup) and is added to fish curries. Together with chilies, it makes a good sour and
spicy side dish. The fruit is rich in Vitamin C.
The recommended medicinal use is for fever as a cooling drink. Mash 2 to 3 ripe
fruits in a glass of water. Add sugar to taste. Traditionally, the decoction of the leaves are
used as a bath after childbirth. An infusion of the flower is taken in for cough.
Linga or Sesame (Sesamum orientale L., Sesame indicum)
The seeds have been popularly used for millennia in Asia and Africa. Sesame has
three kinds of seeds: white seeds which are rich in calcium and lecithin; the black seeds
which are a rich source of iron; and the red seeds, also rich in iron. Sesame seeds contain
also contain niacin, phosphorus, sulfur, proteins and carbohydrates. Sesame seeds are
often used as a coating to give a delicate nutty flavor to savory and sweet foods, cookies,
bread and casserole.
The seeds contain 50 to 60 percent fixed oil. This sesame oil has the finest flavor
and can be used for frying, pickles, chutneys, seasoning and as a paste mixed with cooked
vegetable recipes.
The recommended medicinal use of sesame is for constipation: Take roasted
seeds, alone or mixed liberally, with other foods. Nutritionally, the black and red seeds
are good for anemia. Traditionally, it is used for hemorrhoids. The seeds are grounded
and mixed with water and applied for bleeding hemorrhoids. Half a teaspoon of
powdered seeds taken with hot water twice daily has been used for painful menstruation.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Sesame oil can be applied to skin ulcers, burns and scalds. The oil is also used as a
massage treatment for rheumatism. Half a teaspoon of powdered seeds taken with hot
water twice daily has been used for painful menstruation.
Luya or Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.)
For culinary purposes, ginger is widely used in soups, pickles, bread, cookies,
cakes and pudding. It is used as a curry powder all over the world. It is used to produce
ginger beer, ginger ale and ginger wine.
The rhizome has several volatile oils and an oleoresin. It has also been found to be
anti-tuberculosis in vitro and to have anti-histamine property. It also contains calcium,
phosphorus, iron, Vitamin C and small amounts of Vitamin B complex.
The recommended medicinal uses are:
a. As antiseptic: prepare tincture of the dried rhizome with 70 percent alcohol
(ethyl alcohol but not rubbing; gin or lambanog- distilled coconut wine) and apply
on superficial cuts. The juice of the fresh rhizome can also be used.
b. For gas pain and indigestion: Take decoction of the rhizome (salabat) as tea.
Honey or sugar may be added, as desired. For sore throat, pharyngitis and cough:
Take warm decoction of the rhizome as tea or chew a small piece of the rhizome.
c. For rheumatism and arthritis. Pound, roast, mix with coconut or baby oil and
apply on painful areas. The ginger can also be mixed with equal amounts of
cayenne or siling labuyo (Capsicum frustescens L.) and garlic (Allium sativum
L.). Boil the three spices in an equal amount of coconut or baby oil for three
minutes. Cool and apply on affected areas.
Sibuyas or onions (Allium cepa L.)
Onions contain cinnanic acid, caffeine acid, asafetida acid, mustard seed acid,
polysaccharide A and B, quercetin, many varieties of amino acids, calcium, phosphorus,
iron, riboflavin, vitamin C, volatile oils. The odor in onion is due to organic sulfur
compounds which are released when the bulb is cut or bruised.
A research study being done by Cornell University Medical School and the
Chinese government has shown that in areas where onion and garlic production is high,
they found the lowest rates of stomach cancers. Diallyl sulfide, an organic sulfur
compound, found in both onion and garlic is now being investigated as a possible
prevention for stomach cancer. Diallyl sulfide increases the production of the enzyme
glutathione-S-transferase, which protects against cancer in the stomach.
The onion stalk contains Vitamin A, thiamin and ascorbic acid. In traditional
medicine, onion have the following properties: stimulant (increases or hastens body
activity), diuretic (increases the amount of urine produced), expectorant (promotes
ejection of fluid from lungs and trachea) and rubefacient (an external skin application
causing redness of the skin).
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Recommended medicinal use:
a. For cough and colds. Make an onion soup and drink while hot or tepid 4 to 6
times a day. Another preparation is to mix equal amounts of onion juice and
honey. Take one teaspoon of the mixture every four hours.
b. For tooth disorders and toothache. Russian researchers have confirmed the
bactericidal properties of onions especially for tooth disorders. Chewing raw
onion for three minutes is sufficient to kill the harmful bacteria in the mouth.
Toothache is remedied by placing a small piece of crushed onion in the bad tooth
or gum.
c. For wounds, skin ulcers and boils. Apply freshly crushed onion or its juice to
the affected parts.
Siling labuyo or cayenne or bird’s eye chili (Capsicum frutescens L.)
The fruits contain the caretenoid lutein which is associated with a lower rate of
age-related macular degeneration of the eyes. Capsicum has also demonstrated
antioxidant activity. They are good sources of ascorbic acid, beta carotene, Vitamins A
and B. They also contain citric acid, palmitic acid, oleoresin, volatile and fixed oils,
pentosans and pectin.
The leaves are excellent sources of calcium, iron and Vitamin B. They are also
good sources of potassium and Vitamin A. They also contain saponin, tannin, fats and
perioxidase.
Cayenne or hot red pepper contains the phytochemical capsaicin which is an antiinflammatory. It is used topically for arthritis pain. It also suppresses cholesterol
formation in the liver.
Recommended medicinal uses.
For arthritis and rheumatism. Crush fruit, mix with coconut oil and apply on
affected part. For dyspepsia or indigestion, eat fruit as a condiment.
Solasi or sacred/holy basil (Ocimum sanctum L.)
This herb is sacred to the Hindus. It releases its flavor only when cooked. The
leaves and stems contain tannin, sulfur, fats, calcium oxalate, perioxidase and formic
acid. They also contain methyl chavicol, cineole, linalool, methyl homoanisic acid,
caryophyllene, eugenol, eugenol methyl ether and carvacrol.
Recommended medicinal uses:
For fever and gas pain. Take infusion of leaves as tea. For rheumatism. Crush
leaves and apply juice on affected parts. As an aromatic bath. Use decoction of
leaves.
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
Sweet basil or Balanoy (Ocimum basilicum L.)
Often eaten as a raw herb in Thailand and Vietnam, together with other herbs and
vegetables and a spicy dip. The herb contains volatile oil like methyl chavicol, linalool,
cireol-eugenol, pinene, ocimene, terpin hydrate, cineole, anethol, estragole, linalyl
acetateand clove phenol. Methyl chavicol, which is the main constituent of the oil, has
been found to have mild germicidal action.
Recommended medicinal uses.
For cough and gas pain. Take infusion or decoction of the herb as tea. For insect
bites and ringworm. Apply juice of crushed leaves on the affected parts. For skin
ulcers. Use decoction of the herb as wash. For toothache. Wet small piece of
cotton with juice of crushed leaves and insert into tooth cavity.
1.6 INSECTIDINAL PLANTS
As there is greater consciousness now on the possible harm that chemical insecticides or
insect repellents do to the human body and the environment, there is a growing movement to
return to nature in looking for safe and healthy alternatives. And what could be better than plants,
known traditionally and scientifically to be real good insecticides.
Here are some of them, taken from the book Philippine Medicinal Plants in Common Use
by Michael L. Tan and the Handbook on Philippine Medicinal Plants Volume 1 to 4 by Ludivina
de Padua, Gregorio Lugod and Juan Pancho.
Anonas (Anonas reticulata L.) and atis (Anonas squamosa L.)
Their seeds of these popular fruits contain alkaloids that when crushed and mixed
with coconut oil, can kill hair and body lice, as well as the mites that cause scabies.
Corales (Quassia amara L.)
The plant is an ornamental shrub with a height of 2 to 3.5 meters. The leaves are
alternate and about 20 cm. long. Flowers are bright red, 8 to 20 cm. long. The plant
contains glysocides identified as quassin and neoquassin, which are ingredients of flypaper. An infusion of corales is used as a lotion for hair and body lice.
Damong Maria (Artemisa vulgaris L.)
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
A hairy, smelling herb, that is 0.5 to 0.8 meter in height. Stems are leafy and
branched. Leaves are pinnately lobed and flowers head are numerous and ovoid. The
dried twigs are burned and used as good insect repellants.
Kakawati (Glicerida sepium (Jacq) Steud.)
It is also known as madre de cacao. A glabrous deciduous tree 3 to 10 meters
high. Leaves and leaflets are opposite, 4 to 6 cm long. It has pink flowers that are 2 cm.
long. The leaves have a fetid smell and the juice is used to remove ticks and fleas from
dogs and ticks from cattle. The dried twigs are burned and used as insect repellant.
Kasoy (Anacardium occidentale L.) or Cashew
The pericarp or shell of the fruit contains an oil which contains cardol and
anacardic acid which are insecticidal.
Lagundi (Vitex negundo L.)
A shrub of 2 to 5 meters in height with compound leaves with 3 to 5 leaflets. The
flowers are blue. Farmers use the fresh leaves with their rice and corn to repel insects
effectively.
Lansones (Lansium domesticum Correa)
A fruit that is in season nowadays. The rind of the fruit is dried and burned to
drive away mosquitoes.
Lubigan (Acorus calamus L.)
An herb that thrives in wet soil. The leaves are linear, flat, smooth, 2 to 60 cm
long, 1 to 1.5 cm wide. The rhizomes are slender and crooked. The powdered root is used
against rice pests.
Makabuhay (Tinosphorii rumphi L.)
It is a climbing vine, 4 to 10 meters with stems 1 cm think with scattered
protuberances. The leaves are ovate, 6 to 12 cm long and 7 to 12 cm wide, smooth and
shiny. The fruit is 7 to 8 mm long. It contains bitter principles which are insecticidal.
Farmers use the cut stems in their rice fields to lower the pest population. . It is effective
36
Section 1. Medicinal Plants
in repelling some insects and killing others. The plant extract is effective against
houseflies.
Here are some more plants that are insecticidal or insect repellent.
Mana (Jatropha multifida L.) or coral tree and tubang bakod (Jatropha curcas L.)
Mana is a glabrous shrub 2 to 3 meters high with petioles about as long as the
leaves. The leaves are 15 to 30 cm in diameter, cleft nearly to the base into about 10
pinnately incised lobes, the lobes 1 to 4 cm wide. It bears red flowers. Tubang bakod is
an erect, smooth branched shrub,2 to 5 meters, in height. The leaves are entire, angular, 3
to 5 lobed, 10 to 18 cm long. Flowers are greenish to green white. The leaves and stems
of both plants are efficient insecticides. They are also used to kill the mites of scabies.
Santol (Sandoricum koetjape Burm.f.Merr)
Santol is a popular fruit and is in season from July to October. It is rounded,
yellowish when ripe. The pericarp is very thick, seeds are large, surrounded by
translucent, slightly acid pulp of good flavor. The bark contains an insecticidal substance
called sandoricum acid.
Solasi (Ocimum sanctum L.) or sacred basil
It is an erect herbaceous branched plant, 1 meter high or less. Leaves are oblong
ovate somewhat toother, 2 to 4.5. cm. long. The leaves are used as insect repellants. My
personal use and experience show that basil is good repellant against mosquitoes and
cockroaches.
Tabako (Nicotiana tabacum L.) or tobacco
It is a course, erect, annual herb, 0.7 to 1.5 meters high. Leaves are 10 to 30 cm.
long and ovate or obovate. Calyx is green, enlarged in fruit and corolla white and pink
and capsule is ovoid. It has insecticidal properties. The leaves are crushed in decoction
and used as a spray.
Tangan-tangan (Ricinus communis L.) or castor oil plant
It is a shrub-like herb, 4 to 12 feet tall, branched, green to reddish or purple.
Leaves are alternate, simple, long stalked, 20 to 60 cm wide and palmately lobed with 5
to 11 long lobes which are toothed on the margins. Fruits are oval, green or red and
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Section 1. Medicinal Plants
covered with fleshy spines, seeds three per capsule, black or white or mottled gray. It is
found in open waste places. Crush leaves of the plant and dilute the extracted juice with
water. Use as a spray against flies.
Tanglad (Andropogon citratus DC or Cympogon citratus Stapf.)
It is a tufted perennial grass, the leaves up to 1 meter in length, 1 to 1.4 cm. wide,
flat and glabrous. The leaves when crushed give a strong lemon like odor. The volatile oil
of tanglad, which consists mainly of citral and methyl heptone, terpenes and dipentene,
has insecticidal properties. I personally found it to be a good mosquito repellant.
Tubli (Derris elliptica (Roxb) Benth.)
It is a rambling climber. The branches are covered with brown hair. The leaves
are pinnate, 30 to 50 cm. long. It has reddish flowers. The pods are 5 to 8 cm long and
contain 1 to 3 seeds. The root of tubli contains a toxic substance called rotenone which is
commonly used as an insecticide. Rotenone is effecting against biting and sucking
insects, including plant lice, leaf beetles, aphids, flies, caterpillars, ticks and chicken lice.
The above information came from the following sources. Philippine Medicinal Plants in
Common Use by Michael L. Tan; Handbook on Philippine Medicinal Plants Volumes 1 to 4 by
Ludivina dee Padus, Gregorio Lugod and Juan Pancho and Medicinal Plants of the Philippines
by Eduardo Quisumbing.
1.7. 50 PRIORITY MEDICINAL PLANTS1
1. Abutra (Arcangelista flava, L.)
2. Akapulko (Cassia alata, L.)
3. Alagaw (Premna odorata, Blanco)
4. Alibungog (Ehretia philippinensis, L.)
5. Ampalaya (Momordica Charantia, L.)
6. Anis (Foeniculum vulgare, Gaertn)
7. Balanoy (Ocimum Basilicum, L.)
8. Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa, L.)
9. Bawang (Allium sativum, L.)
10. Bayabas (Psidium guajava, L.)
1
Prepared by: Jaime Z. Galvez Tan M.D., M.P.H.
Health Futures Foundation, Inc.
[email protected]
38
Section 1. Medicinal Plants
11. Damong Maria (Artemisia vulgaris, L.)
12. Dilau (Curcuma longa, L.)
13. Duhat (Sysgium cumini, L.)
14. Eucalyptus(Eucalyptus teriticonrins, Sm.)
15. Gatasgatas (Euphorbia pilulifera, L.)
16. Gugo (Entada phaseoloides, L.)
17. Hagonoy (Wedelia biflora, L.)
18. Hierba Buena (Mentha cordifolia Opix et Fresen)
19. Ipilipil (Leucaena glauca, L.)
20. Kabling (Pogostemon cablin, L.)
21. Kakawati (Gliricidia septium, L.)
22. Kanya Pistula (Cassia fistula, L.)
23. Kasuy (Anacardium occidentale, L.)
24. Kaymito (Chrysophyllum cainito, L.)
25. Kintsay (Apium graveolens, L.)
26. Kugon (Imperata cylindrical, L.)
27. Lagundi (Vitex negundo, L.)
28. Linga (Sesamum orientale, L.)
29. Luya (Zingiver officinale, Rosc.)
30. Mais (Zea mays, L.)
31. Makabuhai (Tinospora rumphii, L.)
32. Makahiya (Biophytum sensitivum, L.)
33. Malunggay (Moringa oleifera, Lam)
34. Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana, L.)
35. Mansanilya (Chrysanthemum sinense, Sabine)
36. Niyog (Cocos nucifera, L.)
37. Niyog Niyogan (Quisquilis indica, L.)
38. Oregano (Coleus amboinicus, L.)
39. Papaya (Carica papaya, L.)
40. Pansit Pansitan (Ulasimang Bato) (Peperomia pellucida, L.)
41. Romero (Rosamarinus officinale, L.)
42. Sambong (Blumea balsamifera, L.)
43. Sampalok (Tamarind) (Tamarindus indica, L.)
44. Siling Labuyo (Capsicum) (Capsicum frutescens, L.)
45. Soro Soro (Euphorbia nerhfolia, L.)
46. Sulasi (Ocimum sanctum, L.)
47. Suob-Kabayo (Hyptis suaveolens, L.)
48. Takip-Kohol (Centella asiatica, L.)
49. Tanglad (Andropogon citrates, DC)
50. Tsaang-Gubat (Carmina retusa Masam.)
39