Chinese Star Anise

Scientific name: Illicium verum

Description: Star anise is frequently used as an exotic spice in Indian, Vietnamese and in Chinese cuisines because of its strong, delightful fragrance and flavor. It is one of the spices that combine to make Chinese five spice powder. It is a dark brown pods with eight segments, each containing a pea-sized seed. This star-shaped pericarp is a fruit of Illicium verum which is a medium-sized evergreen tree native to northeast Vietnam and southwest China.  Star anise are harvested just before it ripens and the oil is a highly fragrant oil used not only in cooking but also in soaps, perfumery, toothpastes, mouthwashes and skin creams. The extract of star anise called shikimic acid is used as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of oseltamivir (Tamiflu).

Note: Don't confuse star anise/Chinese star anise with Japanese star anise, which is poisonous and should not be taken.

Medicinal properties and health benefits:

Chinese traditional medicine uses star anise as a stimulant and expectorant, to relieve flatulence, improve digestion, alleviate cramps, cure rheumatism.... and increase libido.


ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES
Star anise is an excellent source of antioxidants because of the presence of linalool, vitamin A and C which help fight free radicals and protect from cellular damage.

COUGHS & FLU
It is commonly employed in treating cough and flu because the oil produced from star anise contains thymol, terpineol and anethole. The shikimic acid as well as the plant antioxidant called quercetin enhances the immune system function and helps protect the body against viral diseases.

BOOST LACTATION
Chinese star anise consists of diantheole and photoantheole that has estrogenic effects to improve lactation and produce milk.

INSOMNIA
Star Anise has mild sedative properties that could aid in calming nerves and help induce sleep.

IMPROVED DIGESTION
Star anise is said to possess carminative, stimulant, stomachic and diuretic properties. It is used to deal with a variety of digestive complaints such as gas, abdominal cramps, indigestion, bloating and constipation.

PRECAUTION: Don't confuse Chinese star anise from Japanese star anise which is not edible.
The FDA recently issued a warning regarding the consumption of star anise teas which is contaminated with Japanese star anise. Japanese star anise contains a toxic compound called sikimitoxin which can cause nausea, vomiting, seizures, restless jitters and rapid eye movement. Always consult your doctor and never self-medicate.

Plum

Scientific name: Prunus

Description: Plums can be yellow, green, red or even white but the most popular varieties are colored deep purple or reddish purple. They are small deciduous trees which can grow to a height of 10-15 m and bear smooth fruits/drupes or stone fruits. The flesh is sweet, very juicy and has a big seed in the center. They exist in diverse colors and shapes with over 2000 different varieties.  Here are some of the cultivars of plum:

Damson (purple or black skin, green flesh)
Greengage (firm, green flesh and skin)
Mirabelle plum (dark yellow)
Satsuma plum (firm, red flesh and skin)
Victoria plum (yellow flesh with red or mottled skin)
Yellowgage or golden plum (yellow flesh and skin)

 Plums can be used to make jams, pickles or wine, canned or dried which are then referred to as prunes.

Medicinal Properties:

Plums are an excellent source of vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C (help increase the absorption of iron into the body), folate, and vitamin K (phylloquinone).  They are also a good source of vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B-6, and vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol). Aside from vitamin C, the other antioxidants plums contain are zea-xanthin, lutein, cryptoxanthin which are health promoting compounds.  It also contains pantothenic acid, calcium, iron, phosphorous, potassium, copper, magnesium,  selenium and zinc. They also supply dietary fiber and are low in calories, low in fat, low in carbohydrate, low in glycemic rating.

Health benefits:

1. Protect your heart
The potassium in plums helps manage high blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke.

2. Anti-cancer
The reddish-blue pigment in some plums called anthocyanins can help protect against cancer by getting rid of harmful free radicals. Plums are known to destroy breast cancer cells.

3. Improves bone health.
Plums contain calcium, phosphorous and other minerals that is good for the bones.

4. Improves brain memory.
Plums are full of antioxidants that have been shown to slow the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other diseases related to memory loss. It also contain anthocyanin and quercetin, beneficial for preventing brain cell breakdown.

5.Keep your bowels regular
The dried plums also known as prunes contains lots of fiber that help you move your bowels regularly.

Contraindication: Plums are rich in Oxalates, oxalic acid which are not good to those with kidney stones.

Spirulina

Scientific name: Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima

Other Name: Blue-Green Algae

Description:
Spirulina is a blue-green algae (cyanobacterium). It belongs to the family of several species of micro algae such as blue-green aphanizomenon and green algae (chlorella) and dunaliella. There are two species of blue-green algae, Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima.

Spirulina have the shape of spiral coils that grow best in low-alkaline conditions such as fresh water lakes, ponds and rivers. In some places, spirulina are cultivated at algae farms to preserve their purity. It also requires an abundance of sunshine and moderate temperatures. Spirulina has a completely digestible cellulose wall that can be digested with ease and can be immediately consumed.

It can be consumed by humans (and other animals) and used as a dietary supplement as well as a whole food.  It is available in tablet, flake and powder form.

When choosing Spirulina, make sure to choose one that is organic and free from contamination and nitrate compounds.


Parts used: Algae

Health Benefits:

Spirulina is largely made up of protein and essential amino acids and is a good source of antioxidants.  It is touted as the “most nutrient dense food on the planet” and it  contains the following nutritional content:

    Calories
    Protein (Spirulina is considered a complete source of high-quality protein that is highly usable)
    Dietary fiber
    Sugars

Fats:

    Total fat
    Saturated fat
    Omega-3 fatty acids
    Omega-6 fatty acids

Minerals:

    Copper
    Iron (Spirulina is one of the best plant sources of iron and it has a highly absorbable form of iron that is gentle on the digestive system)
    Manganese
    Magnesium
    Sodium
    Potassium
    Zinc
    Phosphorus
    Calcium (Spirulina is very high in calcium with over 26 times the calcium in milk.)
    Selenium

Vitamins:

    Riboflavin
    Thiamin ( also known as Vitamin B1 is necessary for the digestion of fats and proteins; for increased energy, eye health, brain function and for improving nerve functioning.
    Niacin
    Pantothenic Acid
    Vitamin K
    Vitamin E
    Folate
    Vitamin B6
    Vitamin C
    Vitamin A


Spirulina contains many pigments which may be beneficial and bioavailable.

Spirulina is one of the few foods with a natural GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid) that has anti-inflammatory properties.

Medicinal properties and uses:


1. Powerful Antioxidants that protect our cells from damage. It has phycocyanin, which is a potent anti-inflammatory.

2. Helps Remove Heavy Metals. Spirulina can bind with heavy metals (e.g. arsenic) and radioactive isotopes in the body and help remove them.

3. Improves HIV/AIDS

Studies show that CD4 cells (T-helper white blood cells that fight infection and are used to stage HIV) and HIV-1 viral load (another HIV biomarker) remained stable or has showed clinically significant improvement.

4. Eliminates Candida

Spirulina has anti-microbial agent that can inhibit Candida from thriving.

5. Helps Prevent Cancer

Phycocyanin can fight free radicals and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

6. Lowers Blood Pressure

Phycocyanin is a pigment found in the spirulina that scientists have discovered possesses antihypertensive effects. It also has been shown to prevent atherosclerosis and reduce elevated blood cholesterol levels.
7. Lowers Chance of Stroke

It can prevent atherosclerosis and subsequent stroke.
8. Boosts Energy
9. Speeds Up Weight Loss

Spirulina speeds up weight loss because it is high in nutrient-dense proteinand low-fat.


Contraindication:

Those with PKU should consult with a doctor before taking.
Those on any type of anti-coagulation medicine should consult with a doctor before taking Spirulina.
People with autoimmune disease.
If you are pregnant, nursing or have any medical condition, check with your doctor first.
Contact your doctor/health care provider to confirm whether or not you should be supplementing with spirulina.


Disclaimer:

The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health. Check with your doctor before beginning any supplement. Never disregard or delay seeking medical advice because of something you have heard or read in this article or the internet.

Parsley

Scientific name: Petroselinum crispum

Other names: Common Parsley, Garden Parsley, Hamburg Parsley

Description:

Parsley is native to the central Mediterranean region (southern Italy, Algeria, and Tunisia)and widely used elsewhere as an herb, a spice, and a vegetable. It has numerous leaflets and a rosette of tripinnate leaves about 10 to 25 cm long and grows as a biennial. The leaves are often used as a garnish. Many dishes are served with fresh green chopped parsley sprinkled on top. It is also used as a condiment, food and flavoring. Root parsley is eaten as a snack or is added in soups, stews and casseroles.

The oil of the parsley seed is used as a fragrance in soaps, cosmetics and perfumes.

Parts used: leaf, seed, and root 

Health Benefits:

Parsley is packed with vitamins and minerals namely vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin E, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, pantothenic acid, choline, folates, calcium, iron,
magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, zinc, and copper. Parsley's high concentration of boron and fluoride can also help prevent bone thinning and osteoporosis.

Medicinal properties and uses:

* Antibacterial
* AntiCancer
* Antirheumatic
* Carminative
* Diuretic
* Emmenagogue
* Vasodilator

Parsley can be used fresh, juice or in teas

Parsley Juice
Put fresh apples and/or carrots in blender, osterizer or juicer and add a bunch of parsley. You may also juice parsley alone but this takes a whole lot of parsley to get just a small amount of juice.

Parsley Teas

Place fresh parsley leaves in a mug and pour boiling water. Leave the water and parsley to steep for 5 minutes.


Parsley have been used mainly to remove kidney stone, bladder infection, and as jaundice medications.  It also prevents gas and bloating, helps stimulate the appetite, improves digestion, increases urine production, reduces spasms, and increase menstrual flow. Both parsley leaf and root can be used in teas to help gout, osteoarthritis, and rheumatism.

Parsley can also reduce fatigue and swelling of eyes by dipping a cloth in an unsweetened tea and placing it over closed eyes for 10 minutes. Leaves and roots are pounded into paste and mixed with a small amount of water or tea and applied on head to repel head lice. For external use, the paste can also be applied to ease bug bites and stings. It is also known to to help speed up the disappearance of black-and-blue marks/bruises.

Parsley contains a large amount of chlorophyll which acts as a breath freshener. Simply chew fresh sprig of parsley after meals.


Precaution:

Fool's parsley and parsley piert is different from parsley so be careful not to confuse parsley with fool's parsley and parsley piert.

Concentrated parsley extracts should be avoided by those with kidney problems and women who are pregnant because it can stimulate the uterus.

Sargassum Seaweeds

Medicines from Natural Sources

Scientific name: Sargassum muticum

Description: 

Sargassum are generally brown or dark green in color and consist of a holdfast, a stipe, and a frond. It has branches, leafy appendages and berry-like structures that are actually gas-filled (oxygen) structures, called pneumatocysts which are filled mostly with oxygen and help keep the fronds afloat.

Sargassum is a genus of brown (class Phaeophyceae) macroalgae (seaweed) in the order Fucales and family Sargassaceae. They generally inhabit shallow water and coral reefs and are distributed
throughout the temperate and tropical oceans of the world.

It is edible and has a slightly bitter, salty flavor.


Health benefits of Sargassum seaweeds:

Sargassum seaweeds are nutritious and rich source of bioactive compounds such as vitamin C, B12,
carotenes (provitamin A), carotenoids, dietary fibers, proteins, and minerals (sodium, calcium,
magnesium, potassium, chlorine, sulfur and phosphorus, iodine, iron, zinc, copper, selenium,
molybdenum, fluoride, manganese, boron, nickel and cobalt). Sargassum have some compounds that are not available in terrestrial vegetables and have many biologically active compounds like
flavonoids, pheophytine, polyphenols, terpenoids, sargaquinoic acids, sargachromenol, sterols and
sulfated polysaccharides.

The highest iodine content is found in brown algae.


Medicinal Properties and Indications:

Sargassum has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-microbial

properties as well as anti-tumor, fibrinolytic, immune-modulatory, anti-coagulant,
hepatoprotective and has anti-viral activity.

Endemic Goiter and Hyperthyroidism - Sargassum seaweeds contains iodide, which has wonderful therapeutic effect on iodine deficiency induced endemic goiter and can temporarily inhibit hyperthyroidism.

Atherosclerosis - This seaweed has high sodium alginate sulfate content which can resist
hyperlipidemia, lower serum cholesterol and reduce atherosclerosis.

Weight loss - Sargassum has virtually no calories and high in dietary fiber thus is helpful in
losing weight.



Important warning: Please note that all medicines, including herbal medicines, should be taken
only on the advice of a qualified practitioner/doctor. You should not treat yourself on the basis of
any information given here.

Canistel or Chesa Fruit

Scientific name: Pouteria campechiana

Other names: egg-fruit, canistel, yellow sapote, boracho, toesa

Description: This tropical fruit may be nearly round, with or without a pointed apex or may be
somewhat oval, ovoid, or spindle-shaped.  It has a yellow-orange color and has the texture that is
relatively firm and mealy that resembles a hard boiled egg yoke but the taste of a bland, dry
pumpkin-pie dessert, more or less musky. The plant is an evergreen tree native to southern Mexico
and Central America and has leaves that are alternate and mostly grouped at the branch tips.  The
flowers are fragrant, solitary or in small clusters.

The ripe fruit has been made into shakes, custard, eggfruit nog, jam, marmalade, cupcakes,
pancakes or grounded as flour.


Parts used: bark and fruits

Nutritional value:

Chesa or Canistel is actually considered a super food and is rich in amino acids-tryptophan, methionine, lysine (nearly as much protein as the avocado) and essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, carotene (provitamin A), niacin, riboflavin and high amount of dietary fiber, phosphorus and calcium.


Medicinal properties:

The decoction of the bark is used for the relief of fever. It is also applied on skin eruptions.

A preparation of the seeds are used to remedy ulcers and heal seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp.

Blueberry

Scientific name: Vaccinium corymbosum

Description: Blueberries specifically the northern highbush blueberries are native to North America.  They are perennial, deciduous, woody shrubs which are slow-growing, upright, multi-stemmed and spreading branches. Blueberry trees have flowers that are long bell- or urn-shaped white to very light pink; dark glossy green leaves that turns to brilliant red, orange, yellow, purple and/or burgundy during autumn. The fruits are 6.4–12.7 mm diameter blue-black berries.

Blueberries are eaten fresh or sold processed as individually quick frozen (IQF) fruit, purée, juice, or as jellies and jams.

Parts used: fruits/berries, leaves

Nutrition Facts:

Blueberries are low in calories yet packed with vitamins especially vitamin C, potassium, manganese, copper, iron and zinc. Blueberries are among the highest anti-oxidant value fruits, it is also rich in dietary fiber, anthocyanins and various phytochemicals.

Medicinal properties and uses:

Blueberries have a number of medicinal properties that have been used for generations to treat and prevent digestive orders, improve circulation, maintain eye health, and reduce inflammation.

Antioxidants have been shown to help prevent a number of long-term illnesses such as heart disease, high blood cholesterol, cancer and eye disorders such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration. Blueberries are also brain boosters and can help with memory loss and increased circulation, which may help to combat the start or progression of degenerative diseases like Parkinsons and Alzheimers. It is also a laxative and helps to treat diarrhea, ulcers, urinary tract infections (UTIs), arthritis, multiple sclerosis (MS), colic, fever, varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

Potassium in an important component of cell and body fluids that helps controlling heart rate and blood pressure.

Vitamin C aids the formation of collagen, maintains healthy gums as well as a healthy immune system. helps maintain healthy gums and capillaries, and promotes iron absorption and a healthy immune system.

Traditionally, blueberry leaves have been used to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Tamarind

Scientific name: Tamarindus indica

Description: The tamarind tree is native to tropical regions of Africa, particularly the Sudan, but it has spread since to almost all tropical areas of the world. The tamarind pods are about five inches long which contain seeds and a sweet&sour pulp.   It can be consumed as a raw fruit, candied, dried and ground into a spice or when it is fully ripe it can be added to dessert.

Parts used: Pulp of fruit

Health benefits:

Tamarind has many nutritional components such as having  a significant level of vitamin C, vitamin E, B vitamins, calcium, iron, phosphorous, potassium and manganese. Tamarind is also rich in dietary fiber such as tannins, mucilage and pectin.There are also a number of organic compounds that make tamarind a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.

Medicinal properties and uses:

Tamarind fruit is also cathartic, febrifuge, antiseptic and refrigent. It is used as an Ayurvedic medicine for gastric problem, digestion problems and in protecting the heart.

Good for Digestive Health, Bile disorder, Constipation, Diarrhea: Tamarind is a natural laxative. It is also a bilious substance, that stimulates the activity of bile and help dissolve food faster. Studies have shown tamarind to be effective against chronic diarrhea as well.

Sunstroke: Two tablespoons of thick tamarind paste is an excellent home remedy for with mild sunstroke.

Healthy Heart: Tamarind is effective in reducing blood pressure and blood cholesterol. The potassium in tamarind may be responsible for the reduction in blood pressure while the fiber content is responsible for the reduction in cholesterol by scraping excess LDL cholesterol from the veins and arteries.

Nerve Function: One of the most significant vitamin elements of tamarind is the B complex especially the high quantities of thiamine. Thiamine is responsible for improving nerve function,
as well as muscle development.

Weight Loss: Tamarind has a compound called hydroxycitric acid (HCA) which inhibits an enzyme in the body that specifically helps store fat. It also suppresses the appetite by increasing the serotonin neurotransmitter.

Tamarind is use as a gargle for sore throats.
Tamarind is a good source of antioxidants that fight against cancer.

Tamarind Juice:

Use a high power blender. IF not, then soak tamarind pod overnight or for several hours to soften it. The seeds can be either removed or not, depending on your preference.  

Put a cup of tamarind in blender and 1 1/2 cups of water. You may add a bit of ginger or vanilla or both. Add a tablespoon of honey.

Caution: As with all the medicinal plants found on this website. It is best to consult your doctor before trying any supplements or medicinal plants.

Goji Berries

Scientific name: Lycium barbarum

Common names: Goji, goji berry or wolfberry

Description:

Goji berries grow on an evergreen shrub found in China, Mongolia and in the Tibetan Himalayas. This berry is a member of the nightshade family (Solonaceae), which includes other common vegetables like potato, tomato, eggplant and pepper as well as some poisonous plants like belladonna and deadly nightshade.

They are bright orange-red, ellipsoid about 1–2 cm in diameter.  Goji berries have a mild tangy taste that is slightly sweet and sour that is usually sold dried and looks like bright red raisins.

Goji berries are eaten raw, brewed into tea, or used in smoothies or made into juice. 

Health benefits:

Goji berries have vitamins, antioxidants and all essential amino acids.  It has the highest concentration of protein of any fruit and loaded with vitamin C. Gogi berries have the highest
carotenoids than any other food; have 15 times the amount of iron found in spinach, as well as calcium, zinc, selenium, sodium, potassium, thiamin, riboflavin, lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin, polysaccharides, betaine, peptidoglycans and has twenty-one trace minerals.  It is also high in fiber.

It also has natural anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal compounds.

Goji berries are typically sold in dried berry form when used in traditional Chinese medicine also one should consult a doctor before taking it.

Medicinal Benefits:

Eyesight:

Being rich in zeaxanthin which is an antioxidant, Goji berry protect the eyes and decreased the likelihood of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Cancer:

Goji berries prevent cancer. Studies show that those treated with immunotherapy in combination with goji polysaccharides saw their cancers regress.

Diabetes Control:

Studies suggest that the fruit extracts of goji berries possess considerable hypoglycaemic properties.

Some studies using goji berry juice found possible benefits that included:


*a feeling of well being and calmness
*better athletic performance
*better quality of sleep
*cardiovascular protection
*lowering of cholesterol
*protection of brain cells 
*protection of the liver and skin
*Weight loss

Precaution: Little is known about the safety of using goji supplements or consuming goji juice in the long-term. It may increase the risk of bleeding and may interact with diabetes medications and/or anticoagulant drugs. Always consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

Banaba

Scientific name: Lagerstroemia speciosa.

Common names: Queen's flower, pride of India and queen's crape myrtle and Banaba.

Banaba is a deciduous tropical flowering tree that grow up to 10 meters high. It has large green oblong to elliptic-ovate leaves, smooth and spatulate. The flowers or Banaba are racemes, 6-parted and colored mauve-pink to lavender, purplish lilac. Petals are obovate, shortly clawed with margins that are undulate and hardly fimbriate. Banaba or Queen's flower, crape myrtle bears nut-like fruits that are obovoid and arranged in large clumps.

Parts used: Leaves, fruits

Medicinal properties and uses:

Banaba contains corosolic acid/triterpenoid glycoside acid that act like insulin by lowering the blood sugar in the body. Banaba also contains a lot of dietary fiber and minerals such as magnesium and zinc.

The leaves has Valoneic Acid Dilactone (VAD) which acts as an inhibitor of xanthine oxidase to lower uric acid levels and is effective against gout.

It is also rich in tannin, phenolic compounds, flavonoids and saponins.

Banaba is used in folkloric herbal medicine for the treatment of the following:

Blood pressure control
Cholesterol level control
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Gout
Kidney stones and other kidney disorders
Weight loss

Preparation of Banaba herbal tea:

Dry Banaba leaves and fruits for about two weeks; cut Banaba leaves/fruits into pieces. One cup of water for every cup of Banaba leaves and fruits.

Boil, strain and let it steep for 30 minutes. Take the Banaba herbal tea for 4 to 6 times daily.

Precaution:
It is recommended to consult your doctor before taking any herbal medicine.

Pomelo

Scientific name: Citrus decumana, Citrus maxima or Citrus grandis


Common names: shaddock, pomelo, suha, pamplemousse

Description: Pomelo is a large citrus fruit 15–25 centimetres in diameter and weighing about 2.2 to more than 4 lbs.  It has the consistency of grapefruits without the tart flavor. It is pale green or yellowish in color while its edible flesh inside is pulpy & white, pink or red and has very thick albedo (rind pith).

The peel is used to make marmalade or candied.

Parts used: Fruit, peel, leaves

Nutritional value:

Fresh fruit is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and organic compounds like vitamin B & C, potassium, iron, magnesium, lycopene and dietary fiber. The rind has flavonoids, limonoids,
and terpenes.

Medicinal properties:

Studies show that pomelo is antimicrobial, antioxidant, free radical scavenging, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial.

Anti-Aging - Pomelo has high levels of vitamin C, antioxidants and pomelo also contains spermadine (a rare chemical found in human sperm) and linked to anti-aging properties.

Anti-depressant - The extract of leaves showed psychostimulant effect and increased in norepinephrine level in the synapses thus helpful in lifting up the mood.

Blood Pressure - Pomelos are a very good source of potassium about 37% of your daily requirement. Potassium is a vasodilator which helps release tension of blood vessels and promotes increased blood circulation and oxygenation of organ systems. It is also good for the heart.

Body Cramping - Potassium is important in the fluid balance in the body and prevents muscle cramping and stiffness.

Diabetes - Pomelo Juice yields insulin like substance and is rich in lycopene and vitamin C.

Digestion - Pomelo contains about 25% of your daily requirement of fiber. This promotes healthy digestion and eliminates problems like constipation and diarrhea.

Dyspepsia - Peel or rind, dried or in decoction, used for dyspepsia.

Immune System - Being rich in Vitamin C this fruit helps to fight off infections, colds, coughs, fevers, and other microbial, viral, and bacterial infections.

Weight Loss - Pomelo contains Carnitine pamitoyl-transferase a “fat-burning enzyme” that can help you reduce your weight.

Asparagus

Scientific name: Asparagus officinalis

Description:

Asparagus is a herbaceous, spring vegetable and flowering perennial plant with stout stems and much-branched feathery foliage. The "leaves"or modified stems are  needle-like cladodes(branchlets) in the axils of scale leaves. The root system is adventitious and the root type is fasciculated.

The flowers are bell-shaped, greenish-white to yellowish, axillary, fascicled, solitary or in pairs.

Parts used:

Roots and seeds of ripe fruit

Medicinal properties:

Asparagus has been used as a vegetable and medicine because of its diuretic properties, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, mild aperient, sedative, laxative, demulcent and the green resin it contains is believed to be calming to the heart.

Asparagus is high in vitamin B1, B6, B12, Vit A, C, E, K, calcium, magnesium and zinc.  It is also a good source of dietary fiber, protein, beta-carotene, rutin, niacin, folic acid, iron, phosphorus, potassium, copper, manganese, selenium and chromium. Asparagus is low in calorie and sodium.

This vegetable is also a natural free radical scavenger and antioxidant.

Medicinal Uses:

Asparagus is considered a useful supplement for hangovers.

Anti-Cancer: Asparagus has sarsasapogenin O, and seven known steroids which demonstrated significant cytotoxicities against human A2780, HO-8910 and other tumor cells.

Asparagus also alleviates pain caused by rheumatism, chronic gout and the green resin is used for flatulence, calculous affections and cardiac dropsy.

Water in which asparagus was boiled is good for rheumatism and the roots are considered a powerful diuretic and used also for bronchial catarrh and pulmonary tuberculosis.

Bee Balm

Scientific name: Monarda didyma

Common names: Horsebalm, Bergamot, Wild Bergamot, Scarlet Monarda, Oswego Tea, Mountain
Mint, Horseming, Elk Medicine, Sweet leaf

Description:

Bee balm is a perennial plant and a member of the mint family. The flowers are long, tubular that are clustered in a solitary, rounded head of dark-red calices. The flowers range in color from pink to crimson red, red and light purple hues. The stems are about 2 to 3 feet long that are branched while the leaves are aromatic/fragrant minty that are dark green, oval to oblong lanceshape. The preferred habitat are open woods, thickets, dry rocky hills and found in Eastern Canada and Maine, westward to Minnesota, south to Gulf of Mexico.  Bee balm is edible as well as medicinal and used as an herb.
Bees delight in the nectar of the flowers, earning the name "Bee Balm".

Parts Used: leaves, flowers

Medicinal uses and properties:

Bee balm is the natural sources of the antiseptic thymol (the main active ingredient in modern commercial mouthwash formulas and used to treat mouth and throat infections.),carvacrol, rosemarnic acid. It has excellent antibacterial qualities & strong antiseptic properties used for skin infections and minor wounds.  The herb also has carminative properties and used to treat headaches and fevers, colds, colic, nausea, delayed menstruation, general stomach upset, insufficient circulation and as a relaxant diaphoretic. The bee balm can also be use for psoriasis, eczema and can be used as an insect repellant.

Bee Balm Tea Recipe:

Place ¼ cup bee balm leaves and flowers in a teapot. Add one quart of boiling water.Cover and steep for about an hour until cool. Strain and discard leaves and flowers. sweeten to taste, take at bedtime. You may also want to chill and serve over ice.

Precaution:

Not to be taken by those with thyroid problems, pregnant or lactating women. It can also cause skin irritation and cause sensitivity to the sun so it is advisable to test it first on a small area of the skin before applying. Just like in all the post here of medicinal plants, it is still best to consult your doctor before using medicinal plants.

Peppermint

Scientific name: Mentha piperita also known as M. balsamea Willd
Other names: corn mint, lamb mint, yerba buena, black peppermint, chinese peppermint

Description: Peppermint is a herbaceous rhizomatous perennial hybrid plant as a result of a cross between Spearmint (Mentha spicata) and Watermint (Mentha aquatica). It has a wide-spreading, fleshy rhizome with fibrous roots. Leaves are placed opposite each other and are greenish-purple lance-shaped and toothed along the margins. It small, violet/purple flowers that blooms from mid to late summer. Both leaves and flowers have a characteristic, aromatic fragrance. The peppermint has  a bit stronger minty flavor while the spearmint is subtle.

Parts used: leaves and flowers

Medicinal properties and uses:

Peppermint is considered to have astringent, antiseptic, emetic, stimulant qualities and muscle relaxing abilities.  Peppermint is also a good source of manganese, copper, and vitamin A & C. It has long been used as a medicinal plant and research shows that taking peppermint oil taken orally helps reduce stomach pain, bloating, gas, and helps in the bowel movements & muscle spasm in people with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Crushed leaves rubbed on the skin help soothe and relax the muscles.

Peppermint tea made from leaves and flowers can be an excellent remedy for indigestion, cramps, flatulence, nausea, vomiting and colic. Peppermint can also an appetite stimulant.

Topical application of peppermint oil can reduce pain caused by arthritis, rheumatism and even chronic joint pain. It also relieves headache, itchiness, toothache and nerve pain.

Peppermint vapors and inhalers helps alleviates nasal and sinus congestion, laryngitis and bronchitis. The rosmarinic acid found in peppermint is beneficial for asthma sufferers.


Precaution: Some herbs could react with certain medication or produce adverse reaction to your body, therefore it is  advisable to contact your doctor/herbalist before consumption of any herb.

Ashwagandha

Scientific Name :  Withania Somnifera

Other names: Indian ginseng, poison gooseberry, winter cherry

Description:

The Ashwagandha plant is a hardy small woody shrub that grows to about 150 centimeters. It has a central stem with branches that are covered in wool-like hairs and extend radially in a star pattern.  It displays small flowers with central yellow section and light green petals.  The small bright red berry-like fruit has a
distinctive red seeds in it.

The roots of Ashwagandha looks like a big carrot with one long thick structure or it can also look like a subsystem of intertwined roots. The word Aswhagandha in Sanskrit means 'smell of a horse' because the root smells like one. This tree is cultivated in India.


Parts Use: Fruit, Seed, Root


Medicinal properties and uses:


Ashwagandha root is considered similar  to 'ginseng' because the health benefits it give resembles that of ginseng. It promotes physical and mental health, rejuvenation and longevity. It also allows the body to cope
with stress and increase the energy level.

Scientists labeled this herb as non-specific tonic (enhances physical fitness) and “adaptogen” because it
adapts to fit certain health needs within the body and finds what’s wrong with and attempts to fix it. It is important in prolonged stress.


It enhances memory and improve brain function.
It promotes sound sleep - Ashwagandha has a calming effect.

Decrease high cholesterol levels, blood pressure and hypertension
Diuretic
Anti-epileptic
Anti-tumor
Anti-fungal
Pain relief/Arthritis/Anti-inflammatory
Regulates blood sugar
Reduces depression and anxiety
Combats stress
Gastrointestinal disorders
Skin infections
Stabilizes moods and encourage adrenal recovery.


Precaution:

Ashwagandha is generally considered safe, however, it may induce abortion when taken in very large doses and it may also cause infertility in women.

Readers are advised to consult a physician or health care provider before taking any herbs/medications.

CLOVES

Scientific name: Syzygium aromaticum

Description

Cloves are strong, pungent and rather sweet brown spice that are unopened pink flower buds of an evergreen tree in the family Myrtaceae. It looks like a nail and thus the name which comes from the Latin word clavus, meaning nail.

The clove tree is native to the Maluku Islands in Indonesia and it grows up to 8–12 m tall.  The pink buds
which are picked up when they reach 1.5-2 cm in length are dried until they turn brown in color.

Cloves are used in the cuisine of Asian, African, and in the Middle East.


Parts used: flower buds

Nutritional Information and Properties of Cloves:

Cloves are widely recognized all over the world for their medicinal qualities.

Clove contains significant amounts of an active component called eugenol which gives this spice a strong
flavor and aroma. This is an anti-inflammatory substance that is known to protect the body from pollutants as
well as prevent cancers like colon cancer and it also heals joint inflammation.  It is also  known to have
antioxidant, anti-septic, mild anaesthetic, anti-bacterial, rubefacient (warming and soothing), carminative
and anti-flatulent properties.

This spice also contains flavonoids, kaempferol and rhamnetin which contribute to clove's anti-inflammatory
and antioxidant properties. IT also has other essential oils like beta-caryophyllene, crategolic acid,   
tannins, gallotannic acid, methyl salicylate (painkiller); vanillin, triterpenoids (oleanolic acid,
stigmasterol and campesterol).

This spice is commonly use in dental care essentials -toothpastes, mouth wash and oral care medications
contain clove oil as an important ingredient.

Cloves also contains a good amount of Vitamin A and beta-carotene, vitamin-K, vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin C and riboflavin. as well as minerals like potassium, manganese, iron, selenium, calcium and magnesium. 



Health Benefits and Medicinal Uses of Cloves:

1. Infections, wound, cuts, scabies, athlete’s foot, fungal infections, bruises, prickly heat, insect bites and stings.

2. Toothache

3. Nausea and vomiting/morning sickness - cloves mixed with sugar and water. You may add tamarind too.

4. Sinusitis, colds - use lukewarm water, drops of clove oil and honey.

5. Indigestion, loose stools, flatulence

6. Ringworm  or tinia -eugenol contained in cloves is a very effective anti-fungal.



Precautions:

Increased risk of bleeding, a burning sensation and lowered levels of blood sugar.

Chokeberry

 Scientific name: Aronia melanocarpa (Black Chokeberry), Aronia arbutifolia (Red Chokeberry)

Other names: Aronia, bitter-berry, or Virginia bird cherry

Description:

Chokeberry also known as Aronia, Bitter-berry, or Virginia bird cherry is a shrub or small tree that grows to about 5m tall and is native to North America. The leaves are oval with serrated margin while the flowers are white with 5 small petals.  The fruit is about 1 cm in diameter and ranges in color from bright red to black.

There are at least 2 species of chokeberries that are cultivated widely - black and red.  Black chokeberry
is sour sometimes bitter and is used to make jam or wine while the red chokeberry is sweet and less
astringent.

Parts used: Berries, leaves

Nutritional Information and Properties of Chokeberry:

Chokeberries among the healthiest berries because of its nutritional value.

It has a high concentration of polyphenols, flavonoid, anthocyanins and proanthocyanidin oxidants. These
antioxidants have proven health benefits by scavenging dangerous oxygen-free radicals.

Among the berries, chokeberry has one of the highest values yet recorded when it comes to the "oxygen
radical absorbency capacity" or ORAC (measurement of antioxidant strength of food items). This is effective
in preventing oxidative stress which is the root cause of most diseases. They are also rich in Vitamin C, vitamin E, Vitamin A, beta-carotene, carotenes, luteins and zeaxanthins. Zea-xanthin protects eyes from age-related macular disease. Chokeberries also have minerals like folate, potassium, iron and manganese.

Health Benefits and Medicinal Uses of Chokeberry:

Scientific studies have shown that consumption of chokeberries on a regular basis have potential health
benefits against cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, aging, inflammation, neurological diseases and
bacterial infections.

Cardiovascular Diseases/Heart attack/Stroke: Chokeberry is rich in antioxidants and flavonoid which are
good to keep a healthy heart. It reduces the bad cholesterol and improves blood flow. It also reduces the
blood pressure.

Diabetes: Chokeberry controls the blood sugar level and prevents it from spiking. It also prevents diabetes
related complication.

Ageing: because Chokeberry is a rich source of antioxidants and other nutrients it thus help to slow down
the ageing process.

Cancer: Chokeberry has high Oxygen Radiance Absorption Capacity (ORAC) and is rich in antioxidants.  Thus, this berry is good at inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and  destroys free radicals in our body. 

Age-related Macular Degeneration: Chokeberry is rich in antioxidants and phyto-nutrients which nourishes the eye and protect them.


Weight Loss: Chokeberry is known to burn fat and prevents the body from storing fat in the abdomen.



Precautions:

Just like in any part of this blog, it is still best to consult your physician before taking medicinal
plants/herbs or any medications.

Hawthorn Berry

Scientific name: Hawthorn - Crataegus oxyacantha; Smooth Hawthorn - Crataegus laevigata;
Common hawthorn - Crataegus monogyna; Chinese Hawthorn - Crataegus pinnatifida

Other names: Oneseed or single-seed hawthorn(common hawthorn), white horn, hawberry, May-tree, thornapple, mayblossom, whitethorn, hagthorn, cheese Tree

Description:

Common hawthorn - Crataegus monogyna is a small flowering tree or shrub that is native to temperate regions of  Europe, North America, North Africa and Western Asia. It has abundant red berries and its seeds are readily spread into open fields, grasslands and woodlands, thus creating a thorny thicket.  The leaves are long and broad and has 3 to 7-lobed that looks like mittens or paws. The petals are white and sometimes pinkish. The stem is filled with 1-3cm thorns. The fruit, also known as, haw is berry-like and looks like cherries or stones of plums and is brilliant red in color.

The dried haws are made into tablets or capsules.


Parts Used: Dried haws or fruits


Nutritional Benefits and Properties:

Hawthorns are rich in Vitamins C and B-complex.

Hawthorn in general contains amyddalin, flavonoids(vitexin, rutin, quercetin, and hyperoside), flavone-C, flavone glycosides, tannins, catechins, oligomeric proanthocyanidins (epicatechin, procyanidin, and  procyanidin B-2),  triterpene acids (such ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, and crataegolic acid), polyphenols, saponins, hyperoside, cardiotonic amines and phenolic acids (caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and phenolcarboxylic acids). These chemical constituents have beneficial effects and antioxidant properties.

Flavonoid acts as a natural ACE inhibitoris know to convert angiotensin (angiotensin I) into the active vasoconstrictor (angiotensin II). It widens the arteries and increases the supply of oxygen to the heart.

The bioflavonoids are known to benefit the circulatory system of the by toning and strengthening the muscles of the walls of the arteries which helps prevent aneurism & stroke.


Medicinal Properties and Uses:

Several species of hawthorn have been used in traditional medicine. The ripe fruit and flowers are usually used in herbal medicine.

Heart Problems

Hawthorn is widely known for the treatment of various heart diseases such as angina pectoris as well asatherosclerosis, chest pain, stroke, high blood pressure, stress....

It increases the supply of oxygen to the heart and is effective in increasing the amount of blood per heart beat. It is known to strengthen the heart muscles and dilate the coronary blood vessels. It also lowers blood pressure and reduce the amount of stress place in the heart by inhibiting the angiotensin converting enzyme. Hawthorn also has antioxidants that protect against the formation of plaque(prvents atherosclerosis) and lowers the LDL (poor) cholesterol.

Indigestion
Hawthorn was used in quite a few Chinese medicines to help with the retention of meals inside the belly. Hawthorn’s capabilities to break up fat also causes it to be useful for helping with indigestion that comes on as a result of eating greasy foods.


Other benefits:

Mild diuretic
Astringent quality (relief of sore throat)
Indigestion
Insomnia (fresh hawthorn is best used for this and is made into tea)
Weight loss ( hawthorn reduce the amounts of cholesterol in the body and increases the metabolic process)

Precaution and Side Effects of Hawthorn Berry

Hawthorn should be taken at recommended doses over the short term. Using hawthorn may cause headaches, nausea, vertigo, rashes and palpitations. While overdose may cause cardiac arrhythmia and it may lower the blood pressure at a dangerous level.

Just like in any part of this blog, it is still best to consult your physician before taking medicinal plants/herbs or any medications.

Cardamom

Scientific name: Elletaria cardamomum

Description:

Cardamom is a very expensive spice that comes from an herbaceous perennial clumping plant that belongs to
the same family as ginger and turmeric. It is native to India & Sri Lanka and it grows up to 5 meters. 
Arising from the rhizome are 10 to 20 leafy shoots(pseudo-stems) in an overlapping leaf sheaths. The leaves are dark green and lanceolate. The pale green or yellow flowers/fruits are capsule-like that grows in long drooping pannicle. Inside the small green papery thin-skinned pod are tiny black seeds. It is harvested before they are ripe and then allowed to dry. There are different kinds of cardamom namely black cardamom, brown cardamom, green cardamom, red cardamom and white cardamom. but the main type of cardamom are black cardamom and green cardamom. The seed has a strong, pungent flavor and aroma that is floral and slightly citrus y. The black cardamom has a slight smoky taste.

Parts used: Seed, Fruit

Nutritional Information and Properties of Cardamom:

Cardamom has a good amount of vitamin C and also contains vitamin B-complex like niacin, riboflavin, and
thiamine.

The minerals found in cardamom includes a rich amount of magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium. It also has a good quantity of manganese, sodium, iron and traces of copper and zinc.

Cardamom is a spice rich in essential oil such as cineol, terpinene, limonene, sabinene, and terpineol(in the form of formic and acetic acid) as well as heptanes, ß-phellandrene, menthone, and mycene. These volatile oils have therapeutic properties and is known to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, mold and fungus.

Cardamom also contains many phytonutrients that helps in cell repair and is a powerful antioxidant.

Health Benefits and Medicinal Uses of Cardamom:

1. Controls Blood Pressure:

Cardamom lowers elevated blood pressure because it is rich in potassium and it is diuretic as well.

2. Improves Blood Circulation:
Cardamom improves blood circulation also contains a good amount of vitamin C which is a powerful antioxidant.

3. Improves eyesight:

The Cardamom capsule taken with honey is known to improve eyesight.

4. Genito-urinary disorders (cystitis, nephritis, gonorrhoea):

The volatile oils founds in powdered seeds are known to heal the inflammation.

5.Depression

Make a tea by using ground cardamom seeds and boiled water.

6. Oral disorders (pharyngitis, sore throat...)
Mix ground cardamom, cinnamon and water and gargle it.

7. Hiccups, stomach cramps
Cardamom has antispasmodic properties that provides relief from hiccup and stomach cramps. You may boil
cardamoms with mint leaves in a cup of water.


Other Uses of Cardamom:

Cardamom is commonly used in Indian cuisine and Middle Eastern cuisine. The seeds are used whole or ground and used in preparing various curries, stews basmati rice, desserts, baked goods, confection and flavoring in drinks.

Skincare - cardamom is an ingredient in soaps and hand creams. It has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory properties and can also be used for skin allergies.

Aromatherapy products - Cardamom imparts fragrances that is relaxing to the senses.


Precautions/Side Effects/ Warnings:

If taken in large amounts, cardamom can exhibit some adverse effects. It is contraindicated in women who
are breastfeeding and those people with gallstones.

Like any herbs/plants in this blog, it is still best to consult your physician before taking it.

Rosemary

Scientific name: Rosmarinus officinalis

Description:

Rosemary is a perennial bushy, woody plant that is native to the Mediterranean and now is grown worldwide. The leaves are about an inch long that stays evergreen and has a pungent odor. The flowers are small and paleblue. There are several varieties but the rosemary with green leaves is the kind that is used medicinally.

The dried rosemary takes on the texture of pine needles. The whole plant is strongly aromatic and belongs to the mint family.  It is used in aromatherapy as well asair fresheners. Rosemary is also used for cooking and lends itself well to roasted chicken, meats and stews.


Parts Used: stem, leaves, flower tops, upper part of the shoots (fresh or dried)


Health benefits of Rosemary herb:

Rosemary is exceptionally rich in Vitamin B-complex (folic acid, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, riboflavin),
Vitamin A and Vitamin C. It is also a rich source of minerals like calcium, copper, iron and magnesium.

This herb also contains volatile essential oils (a-pinene, borneol, bornyl acetate, camphene, cineol and esters) as well as phenolic anti-oxidant rosmarinic acid. These compounds have anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-fungal, antiseptic and carminative properties.


Uses and Medicinal properties:

Headache, stomachache, colds, skin irritations, healing of wounds - externally apply oil of rosemary.

Rosemary oil are prepared by distilling from the fresh flowering tops and the upper part of the herb. Fill it with olive oil enough to submerse the flowers. Seal the jar for a month. Strain the contents off and store the oil in bottle.

Dandruff, hair loss - rosemary is known to prevent premature baldness and stimulates the hair roots to grow hair and improve circulation. To make a hair wash - use an infusion of dried rosemary leaves and flowers mixed with nettle leaf. One can also use the essential oil of rosemary and applied directly to the scalp.

Asthma and allergies - rosemary are known to block histamine and thus alleviates allergies and asthma.

Arthritis, gout, rheumatism, sprain - Rosemary oil is use to massage and relieve arthritis. It also helps the circulatory system.

Other uses:

Air freshener/aromatherapy = Put rosemary leaves, water, a wedge of lemon or orange and a teaspoon of vanilla into a sauce pot. Let it simmer on low all day but watch the water level or put it in an oil burner.


Adverse reaction:

When taken in large amounts, rosemary can cause abortion to pregnant women, kidney dysfunction and might worsen existing neurological conditions like epilepsy.

Bladderwrack

Scientific name:  Fucus vesiculosus

Common names: Bladder Fucus, Brown seaweed, Black-Tang, Cutweed, Sea-Wrack, Brown Algae, Kelp-Ware.

Description:

Brown seaweed or brown algae also known as bladderwrack got it's name because of the bladder-like feature or sac
on either side of the midrib that keeps them afloat. The frond is fan-shaped, narrow, wavy and divided into two with a broad midrib running to the apex. The color is brownish green to yellow.  It grows on the Atlantic coasts of Europe and North America and Baltic Sea. It is attached to the rocks found underneath the water. Its root-like
branch attaches itself to the rocks and it grows up to about 3 feet high.  The bladderwrack is used as a herbal medicine and the entire plant is harvested while still small.

Bladderwrack can be eaten raw or cooked, boiled or steamed.

Parts used: Whole plant, dried stem, leaves and root.

Medicinal properties and Health benefits of Bladderwack:

Bladderwrack contains 3 main components namely:

Iodine -The body needs iodine but cannot make it. The thyroid gland needs iodine to make hormones. Lack of iodine

can cause an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)/hypothyroidism. It regulates thyroid function and metabolism.

Alginic acid - is a type of dietary fiber that helps alleviate constipation, diarrhea, GERD and heartburn.

Fucoidan - a type of dietary fiber that helps lower cholesterol(heart condition) and glucose level (diabetes). It also has anti-inflammatory effect, anti-coagulant (blood-thinning) properties and inhibit cancer growth.

Bladderwrack also contains mannitol, bromine, zeaxantin, algin, polyphenols, proteins, oleic acid, essential fatty acids and fiber.  It is also rich in vitamins like vitamin C, B-vitamins, beta-carotene and has many minerals like sodium, sulfur, magnesium, zinc, iron, and potassium.

Skin Care/Smoother Skin

Bladderwrack in powder form can be added in bath water or facial scrub to smoothen and nourish the skin. It also relieves the eczema and psoriasis.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Bladderwrack can also be brewed or steeped in a quart of hot water and taken internally or applied to the skin to help relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.


Precautions:

Bladderwrack is generally safe and considered a safe herb supplement to use. However, if supplements can interact with other drugs and it's still best to consult a doctor when taking this as a supplement.