Acapulco or Akapulko

 Scientific Name: Senna alata (previously known as Cassia alata)

Common Names: Besides Acapulco, it is also known as candle bush, candelabra bush, empress candle plant and ringworm shrub, due to its efficacy in treating ringworm and other fungal skin diseases.

Description:

Senna alata is a medium to large shrub or small tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Central and South America but has become naturalized in various tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The plant is characterized by its attractive, pinnate leaves, which are large, alternate, and usually have five to seven leaflets. The leaves are bright green and smooth, with prominent veins.

The plant produces tall spikes of vibrant yellow, tubular flowers, and it's often cultivated for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance. The plant gets its common name "Candle Bush" from the candle-like shape of its flower clusters. Senna alata also produces long, slender pods containing seeds.

Parts Used:

The leaves of Senna alata are the primary part used for medicinal purposes. Either fresh or dried, they are harvested for their therapeutic properties.

Medicinal Properties:

Senna alata has several medicinal properties, making it a valuable plant in traditional medicine systems:

Antifungal: The leaves of Senna alata contain compounds like chrysophanic acid, which have antifungal properties. They are used to treat various fungal skin infections, including ringworm and athlete's foot.

Antimicrobial: Senna alata has demonstrated antimicrobial activity, which can help in treating bacterial and fungal skin infections.

Laxative: In some traditional herbal remedies, Senna alata leaves are used as a mild laxative to relieve constipation.

Specific Recipes Using Acapulco (Senna alata):

Ringworm Treatment: To treat ringworm or other fungal skin infections, the leaves of Senna alata can be crushed to form a paste. Apply this paste topically to the affected area and leave it for a few hours before rinsing off. Repeat as needed until the infection clears.

Laxative Infusion: While Senna alata is primarily used for its antifungal properties, the leaves can also be used as a mild laxative. To prepare an infusion, steep a handful of dried leaves in hot water for about 10-15 minutes. Drink the tea as needed to relieve constipation, but use it sparingly as excessive consumption can lead to digestive issues.

Precautions and Warnings:

Use with Caution: Senna alata should be used with caution, especially when applying it topically or using it as a laxative. Excessive use can lead to skin irritation or digestive discomfort.

Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before using Senna alata for any medicinal purpose, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have pre-existing medical conditions.

Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to Senna alata. If you experience any adverse reactions, such as skin redness, itching, or gastrointestinal discomfort, discontinue use and seek medical attention.

In summary, Senna alata, commonly known as Acapulco or Candle Bush, is a tropical plant with antifungal and antimicrobial properties primarily found in its leaves. It is used in traditional medicine to treat various skin conditions like ringworm. However, it should be used with caution, and consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended before use, especially for medicinal purposes.

Oregano

Scientific name: Origanum vulgare

Description: Oregano is an aromatic herb in the mint family sometimes referred to as "wild marjoram" in Europe and is closely related to the herb sweet marjoram. It can be use as fresh, dried or as an oil and is considered a staple herb in many cuisines around the world. The leaves of oregano are oval and are covered with glandular trichomes (plant hairs). The aroma and flavor of the leaves are far greater when the herb is dried than when the leaves are fresh.

Health Benefits:
Oregano contains chemical compounds such as carvacrol, thymol, limonene, pinene, ocimene, and caryophyllene which has antispasmodic, carminative, cholagogues, diaphoretic, expectorant, stimulant, and mildly tonic properties. Its decoction is used for the treatment of colds, influenza, mild fevers, indigestion, stomach upsets, dysmenorrhea and are known to have disease preventing and health promoting properties.  It is high in carvacrol and thymol considered antioxidants that can help prevent damage to cells caused by free radicals and have remarkable bacteria-fighting power. Oregano is a natural form of omega-3 fatty acids which help in preventing atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. It is also have high content of manganese, calcium, iron, vitamin K and fiber.

Medicinal properties and benefits:

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties

Oregano contains beta-caryophyllin (E-BCP), a substance that inhibits inflammation and may also be beneficial for conditions including osteoporosis and arteriosclerosis.

2. Antifungal, Antibacterial and antiviral.

Oregano oil can effectively protect the body against many of these fungal, bacterial and viral infections. Carvacol and thymol are powerful antimicrobials. Oregano contains carvacrol, thymol, cymene, caryophyllene, pinene, bisabolene, linalool, borneol, geranyl acetate, linalyl acetate, and terpinene.

3. Rich in Antioxidants

One active agent in oregano is rosmarinic acid, which is a strong antioxidant that supports immune system health.

4. Colds/Cough

The  carvacrol content induces sweat production as a mode of detox as well as get rid of unwanted phlegm in your lungs.

5. Osteoporosis/Good for the bones

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin, so your body stores it in fat tissue and the liver. It is important for bone growth, maintaining bone density, and the production of blood clotting proteins while calcium is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth.