Medicinal Plants

There are many plants surrounding us that are left unnoticed. Knowing that it can effectively heals some illnesses and improves our way of living. 

Ginseng (Panax Ginseng) - native of Eastern Asia, Siberia and North America is a perennial species known and appreciated for its pharmaceutical properties for almost 5000 years. The Korean and Chinese ginseng is a tonic for the whole body. It was very precious in ancient times and its price was the same with the price of gold. Beginning with the 9th century, the herb was introduced in Europe by an Arab physician and after nine centuries it became one of the most popular natural remedies. It was used initially for its tonic effect over the immune system and for its power to heal virosis and fever states, but its area of use increased gradually and in our days it is used to treat fatigue, afflictions of the nervous system and lack of concentration. Protected by law, ginseng is intensively cultivated in China, Japan, Korea and Russia. Etymologically, its name comes from the word "gin" that means "human" and the word "seng" that means "the essence".

 Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is an annual plant originating in the Middle East - more precisely from Afghanistan and Turkistan. Some assign its origin to the land of Persia - presently Iran. Long ago, the Arabians used it against throat and lung affections. In the 8th century, spinach was grown in Spain and France and in the 11th century it reached Sicily. In present times, the herb has become much appreciated because, according to research, fresh spinach leaves are anticancerigenic. It is a very renowned plant for its rich iron content. The iron that is contained in spinach (in its natural state) is very good for young children because when administrated at a pharmacy, it can easily be overdosed. Little do most known that apart from minerals and vitamins, spinach also contains oxalic acid - a substance that inhibits the absorption of calcium into the body.

Ampalaya (Momordica charantia Linn)
A Philippine herb that has recently gained international recognition for its possible benefits in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Despite its bitter taste, it has also become a popular nutritional drink for a boost of vim and vigor. In fact, the more bitter, the better, as it is believed that the bitterness is proportionate to its potency.
      Studies have suggested that ampalaya contains a hypoglycemic polypeptide, a plant insulin responsible for its blood sugar lowering effect. Other benefits suggested were body detoxification (including removal of nicotine), strengthening of the immune system and fertility regulation.
     It is increasingly recommended as an adjunct or supplement to traditional therapeutic regimens for diabetes mellitus.


Bayabas (Psidium guajava Linn) 
Astringent, antispasmodic, anthelminthic and antiseptic properties.
Leaves used for wounds and toothache must always be fresh.
Decoction or infusion of fresh leaves used for wound cleaning to prevent infection and to facilitate healing.
Warm decoction of leaves for aromatic baths.

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