Evening primrose

 Scientific name: Oenothera biennis (Oenothera L.) 

Description: Evening Primrose is a plant belonging to the family Onagraceae, in which the most numerous species is Oenothera biennis. It is native to North and South America, but it has spread to Europe and other parts of the world. It's well-known for its beautiful yellow flowers that open in the evening and close during the day, hence the name "evening primrose." It is a biennial plant, which means it completes its life cycle over two years. In the first year, it grows a rosette of leaves close to the ground, and in the second year, it develops a tall stem that can reach up to 1.5 meters (about 5 feet) in height, with lance-shaped leaves and large yellow flowers. The seeds of the evening primrose plant contain oil that is rich in essential fatty acids, particularly gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is a type of Omega-6 fatty acid.

Parts used: Flowers and leaves

Health Benefits and Medicinal Properties:

The plant has been used traditionally for centuries in various cultures for its medicinal properties, and it's also appreciated for its aesthetic value in gardens. The oil extracted from evening primrose seeds is where most of the plant's health benefits are concentrated, thanks to its high GLA content. GLA is thought to have anti-inflammatory and other beneficial effects, which leads to several potential health benefits:

Skin Health: Evening primrose oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that is believed to help support skin health. It may help alleviate conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne.

Women's Health Issues: EPO is often used to alleviate symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause, such as breast tenderness, mood swings, and hot flashes. It is also sometimes used to manage the discomforts of endometriosis and to support fertility by improving cervical mucus quality.

Anti-inflammatory Properties: Evening primrose oil contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Nerve Function: GLA may also play a role in supporting nerve function, which could potentially benefit conditions like diabetic neuropathy.

Here's a simple recipe for an evening primrose oil infusion:

Ingredients:

Dried evening primrose leaves or flowers

Carrier oil (such as olive oil or coconut oil)

Instructions:

Place the dried evening primrose leaves or flowers in a clean, dry glass jar.

Pour the carrier oil over the plant material until it is completely covered.

Seal the jar tightly and place it in a cool, dark place.

Allow the mixture to infuse for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar gently every few days.

After the infusion period, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the plant material.

Store the infused oil in a clean glass container with a tight-fitting lid. It can be used topically as needed.

Precaution, Indications and Considerations:

Evening primrose oil is widely available in capsules or as a liquid oil and is generally considered safe for most people when used in recommended dosages. However, because it can affect hormone levels and blood clotting, it's important for certain individuals, such as those on blood thinners, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those with epilepsy, to consult a healthcare provider before using it.

Despite its many purported benefits, scientific evidence varies in quality, and further research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness for various conditions. Like any supplement, it's important to consider evening primrose oil as part of a holistic approach to health and not as a standalone cure-all.

In summary, evening primrose and its oil are valued for their potential health benefits, particularly for skin conditions, women's health issues, and inflammatory conditions. However, individuals should use it with caution and consult healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen.

Chinese Chaste Tree (Lagundi)

Scientific name: Vitex negundo

image from Amazon

Common or local names:

Vitex negundo is known by various local names in different regions:

Commonly known as the Chinese chaste tree, five-leaved chaste tree, horseshoe vitex, nisinda or vitex

In India, it is commonly known as "Nirgundi" or "Sambhalu" in Hindi and other regional languages.

In the Philippines, it is called "Lagundi."

Other names include "Huang Jing" in Chinese and "Nochi" in Tamil.

Description:

Vitex negundo typically grows up to 2-8 meters in height. It has an erect and branched growth habit. The leaves are digitate, with five leaflets, sometimes three. The leaflets are lanceolate or oblong-lanceolate, with the central leaflet being the largest. The plant bears small, fragrant lavender or blue flowers on panicles during the summer and autumn. The fruits are small, round to oblong drupes turning black when ripe.

Habitat: Native to Asia, widely distributed across Asia, Africa, and North America, often found in wastelands, roadsides, and open woodlands.

Parts Used:

The most commonly used parts of Vitex negundo for medicinal purposes include:

Leaves: Treatment of headache, fever, coughs, diarrhea, rheumatism, skin diseases, anxiety, and menstrual disorders.

Fruits: Alleviation of pain, fever, and rheumatism.

Seeds: Treatment of worm infections and skin diseases.

Bark: Used for stomach problems and as a tonic.

Each part may be used for different therapeutic effects, with leaves being the most widely utilized for medicinal concoctions.

Medicinal Uses and Properties:

Vitex negundo is renowned for its wide array of medicinal uses, including:

Anti-inflammatory: It is used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, especially in conditions like arthritis and rheumatism.

Analgesic: The plant has pain-relieving properties, making it useful for headaches, body aches, and toothaches.

Bronchodilator and Expectorant: Lagundi is particularly renowned for its ability to relieve respiratory ailments. It acts as a bronchodilator, helping to expand the airways and ease breathing in conditions like asthma and bronchitis. Additionally, it serves as an expectorant, facilitating the removal of mucus from the respiratory tract.

Antipyretic: The plant is also known for its fever-reducing capabilities.

Antihistamine: Vitex negundo can help in managing allergic reactions by acting as an antihistamine.

Anxiolytic and sedative: Some studies suggest it may have anxiety-reducing and sedative effects.

How to Make a Concoction or Tea for Medicinal Purpose:

A simple way to prepare a medicinal concoction or tea using Vitex negundo (specifically the leaves) is as follows:

Gather fresh leaves: If possible, pick fresh leaves of Vitex negundo for the most potent effect. You can also use dried leaves if fresh ones are not available.

Rinse the leaves: Clean the leaves thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.

Boil water: Bring a pot of water to a boil. The amount of water depends on how much tea you want to make, but a general guideline is about 2 cups of water for every handful of leaves.

Add the leaves to boiling water: Once the water is boiling, add the Vitex negundo leaves. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. The time can be adjusted depending on how strong you want the tea to be.

Strain and serve: After simmering, remove the pot from the heat and strain the tea into a cup or teapot, discarding the leaves. The tea can be consumed warm or cold, depending on preference. Honey or lemon can be added for flavor, but it's best to consume it plain for medicinal purposes.

Precautions and Warnings:

While Lagundi is generally considered safe for most individuals when used as directed, there are a few precautions and warnings to keep in mind:

Pregnant and Nursing Women: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using Lagundi, as its effects on pregnancy and lactation are not well-studied.

Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to Lagundi. It is advisable to perform a patch test before using any Lagundi-based products, especially if you have a history of plant allergies.

Drug Interactions: Lagundi may interact with certain medications. If you are taking prescription drugs, consult your healthcare provider before using Lagundi to avoid potential interactions.

In conclusion, Lagundi, or Vitex negundo, is a remarkable medicinal plant with a rich history of traditional use in various cultures. Its leaves and roots contain an array of valuable compounds that contribute to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and bronchodilatory properties, among others. However, like any herbal remedy, it is essential to exercise caution and seek professional guidance when using Lagundi, especially if you have specific health concerns or are taking medications. When used responsibly, Lagundi can offer a natural and effective way to manage various health issues, providing relief and improving overall well-being.

What are Phytonutrients found in plants?

Phytonutrients, also called phytochemicals(from Greek phyto, meaning "plant") are natural chemicals or compounds produced by plants.

These compounds serve various functions for the plants, including protection against pests, UV radiation, and diseases. When humans consume plants that contain phytonutrients, these compounds can have positive effects on our health. Many phytonutrients have antioxidant properties that help prevent damage to cells throughout the body. 

Phytonutrients are not essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, but they have been associated with various health benefits such as antioxidant activity, antimicrobial effects, anticancer property, improvement of immune system and modulation of hormone metabolism.

Here are some common types of phytonutrients and their potential health benefits:

1. Carotenoids: These are pigments responsible for the red, orange, and yellow colors in fruits and vegetables. They include beta-carotene (found in carrots), lutein (found in leafy greens), and lycopene (found in tomatoes). Carotenoids have antioxidant properties and may help protect against certain chronic diseases, including heart disease and age-related eye conditions.

2. Flavonoids: These are a diverse group of phytonutrients found in a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and beverages like tea and red wine. Flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and they may support cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of certain cancers.

They can be further categorized into several subgroups based on their chemical structure and properties. Here are some of the main types of flavonoids:

        Flavonols: Flavonols are one of the most common subgroups of flavonoids. They are often found            in fruits, vegetables, and beverages. Some well-known flavonols include: Quercetin: Found in                 apples, onions, and tea, quercetin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Kaempferol: Present in foods like broccoli, kale, and spinach, kaempferol is associated with                       potential anti-cancer effects and cardiovascular benefits.

Myricetin: Found in berries, grapes, and red wine, myricetin also has antioxidant properties.

Flavanols (Flavan-3-ols): Flavanols are commonly found in cocoa, tea, and certain fruits. They are known for their potential cardiovascular benefits. Notable flavanols include: Epicatechin: Present in cocoa and dark chocolate,  epicatechin may help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of heart disease. Catechin: Found in green tea, black tea, and some fruits, catechins are antioxidants associated with various health benefits.

Flavanones: Flavanones are primarily found in citrus fruits and are known for their potential anti-inflammatory properties. Examples include: Hesperidin: Abundant in oranges, hesperidin is associated with cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits.Naringenin: Found in grapefruits and tomatoes, naringenin has antioxidant and anti- inflammatory properties.

Anthocyanins: These flavonoids provide red, purple, and blue colors to many fruits and vegetables. They are known for their antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. Examples include:

Cyanidin: Found in berries, red cabbage, and cherries, cyanidin has antioxidant effects and may support heart health.

Delphinidin: Present in blueberries and cranberries, delphinidin is associated with potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Isoflavones: Isoflavones are primarily found in soybeans and soy products. They have gained attention for their potential hormonal effects due to their similarity to estrogen. Common isoflavones include genistein and daidzein.

Proanthocyanidins (Condensed Tannins): Proanthocyanidins are found in foods like grapes, apples, and cocoa. They are known for their antioxidant properties and may have benefits for cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Chalcones: Chalcones are less common but still present in some plants. They have antioxidant properties and are occasionally used for their potential health benefits. Foods high in chalcones are pears, tomatoes and strawberries.

3. Polyphenols: Polyphenols are a larger category of phytonutrients that include flavonoids, but also other compounds like resveratrol (found in red wine and grapes) and curcumin (found in turmeric). They have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anti-cancer properties.

4. Glucosinolates: Found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, glucosinolates can be converted into compounds that may help protect against certain types of cancer.

5. Phytosterols: These compounds are structurally similar to cholesterol and are found in plant-based oils, nuts, and seeds. Phytosterols can help lower LDL cholesterol levels, making them beneficial for heart health.

6. Lignans: Lignans are found in seeds, particularly flaxseeds, and may have antioxidant properties, as well as potential benefits for heart health and hormone-related conditions.

7. Saponins: Saponins are compounds found in legumes (like beans and lentils) and certain vegetables. They may have cholesterol-lowering and immune-modulating effects.

8. Terpenes: Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in herbs, spices, and some fruits. They have diverse health effects and are often responsible for the distinctive flavors and aromas of these foods.

It's important to note that phytonutrients often work synergistically with other nutrients found in whole foods, and consuming a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts is the best way to benefit from their potential health advantages. Different phytonutrients offer different benefits, so incorporating a wide range of plant-based foods into your diet can help ensure you get a diverse array of these compounds.

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Basil

Scientific name: Ocimum basilicum

Other names: Anise Basil, White Basil, Sweet Basil, French Basil, Lemon basil,  Holy Basil, African Blue Basil.

Description:  One of the most widely-used culinary herb in the world. This annual herb of the mint family Lamiaceae (mint) is grown for its aromatic leaves. Growing 0.5 to 1.5 meters high, its leaves are ovate to oblong-ovate, entire or slightly toothed. The stems are tough and square and produce spikes of white flowers followed by small, black seeds. Fruits are nutlets, smooth or somewhat rugose. Inflorescence 20 cm long, corolla 4-5 cm long.

Basils may look almost identical but have distinct aromas, while others have the same aroma yet different in appearance. Many cultivars are available, often named after the type of aroma they emit.

Selected cultivars (from seed) include:
Sweet basils: Sweet, Genovese, Large-leaf, Mammoth
Purple foliage basils: Dark Opal, Purple Ruffles
Lemon basils: Lemon-Scented, Lemon, Sweet Dani
Others: Cinnamon basil, Spicy Bush, Camphor, Anise, Licorice

The green aromatic leaves are used either fresh or dried as flavorings, condiments or spices in salads, sauces, stews and even confectionery products. The essential oil of basil is used in perfumery, soaps and shampoos.

Parts used:
Leaves and seeds


Medicinal properties:
• The dried leaves contain 0.21–1% essential oil, the major compounds of which are linalool and methyl chavicol (estragole), at a ratio of 2 or 3:1
• Phytochemical analysis of leaves yielded several compound e.g. alkaloids, phenols, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, steroids, and terpenoids.

• Leaves and seeds are considered stimulant and diuretic.
• Seeds are demulcent, mucilaginous, anticatarrhal, anti-cancer, hypotensive and are well known as refreshing. 
• Studies have shown sweet basil to possess analgesic, anti-dysmenorrhea, anti- hypochondria, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-ulcer, cardiac stimulant, carminative, chemomodulatory, CNA depressant, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, hypoglycemic, and larvicidal activities.

Basil is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron.

Traditionally, basil has been used as a medicinal plant in treatment of constipation, coughs, diarrhea, headaches, kidney diseases, warts and in deworming. The oils can be mixed with camphor to enhance its antibacterial properties. It can also be used as an insect repellent.

Acne: Apply an infusion of 3 tsp of dried leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 20-30 minutes.
Cough: Take either an infusion or decoction of herb (9-15 gm of dried herb).
Dizziness: Crush fresh leaves and sniff them.
Toothache: Wet small piece of cotton with juice of crushed leaves and placed over a tooth cavity.
Gas pains/ Deworming: Decoction of herb as tea helps to expel worms and reduce gas pains.


REMEMBER to always consult your doctor before using these herbs and medicinal plants.


Special Precautions & Warnings:
Basil is generally SAFE but consuming larger medicinal amounts are possibly UNSAFE. Basil contains estragole, a chemical which is found to cause liver cancer in laboratory mice.

Basil oils and extracts might make bleeding disorders worse and results in a low blood pressure. Thus, it is advised to stop using basil at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Taking basil extract along with medications used for lowering high blood pressure might cause your blood pressure to go even lower. Do not take too much basil if you are taking medications for high blood pressure.

Catnip

Scientific name: Nepeta cataria

Common names: catswort, catmint and field balm

Description: It is native to Central Europe, though now naturalized throughout the northeastern US and Canada.

Catnip is a strong-smelling herb that belongs to the mint family and grows to approximately 1 meter. This flowering perennial has oval-toothed, dark green leaves and white flowering tops.

This herb is commonly used to help calm cats down and reduce the effects of stress and anxiety because of its sedative effect. The chemical compound present in Catnip that attracts and affects cats is called nepetalactone. Thus, it is recommended for use in cat shelters to help make cats more relaxed in an unfamiliar setting.  Take note though that when a cat eats catnip, it acts as a sedative, but when it is just smelled, it causes the cat to go hyperactive.

Catnip also holds amazing benefits for human beings and is a very potent mosquito repellent.

The shoots/leaves have been used as a flavoring in sauces, soups, and stews, as  as well as in fruit table wines and liquors.

The fresh young shoots with its aromatic mint-like flavor are good in salads too.


Parts used: Leaves, flowers and stem


Medicinal properties and Health Benefits: 

Catnip has long been thought to have medicinal properties.

The leaves and flowering tops are sedative, antispasmodic, antitussive,  diaphoretic, astringent, carminative, slightly emmenagogue, refrigerant, slightly stimulant and tonic. Its plant constituents include Nepetalactone, Nepetalic acid, Alpha- & beta- Citral, Geraniol, Dipentene,Limonene, Citronella, Nerol, a terpene, Valeric acid,  Acetic acid, Butyric acid, and Tannin.

The catnip's dried leaves and flowers are made into herbal teas to treat intestinal cramps, indigestion, diarrhea, headache and common colds as well as to cause sweating, to induce menstruation, as a sedative, and to increase appetite.

The dried leaves have been smoked to relieve respiratory ailments, and has been used externally as a poultice to reduce swelling.

Traditional doses for sedation require 4 grams of dried herb that is made into tea.


How to make Catnip tea:

Mix 2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves or flowers with 1 cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Add lemon juice and honey.

Some people prefer drinking the tea when the lemon has been immersed for a longer time for the natural minty, citrusy flavor to come out.


Sleep Aid
Catnip has been used by people with insomnia. Its sedative effect helps slow down the body’s natural cycles and induce a calm, relaxed state.

Stress Relief
Catnip reduces stress and chronic anxiety as well as strengthens the immune system.

Speeds up Healing (Flu and colds)
Catnip induces sweating and gets the toxins flushed from the system.

Increased Sweating And Weight Loss
Catnip has diaphoretic property that makes one sweat more. Thus, it removes all harmful toxins from the body and improves metabolism. With improved metabolism, the body will burn fats much more quickly.

Headache/Migraine 
Drinking catnip tea or rubbing Catnip essential oil or leaf salve on the temples can offer quick relief.

Heals Digestive Problems
The organic compounds in catnip has relaxing, anti-inflammatory effects to  relieve tightness and discomfort of the gastrointestinal system.

Menstrual cramps/Irregular periods 
Catnip tea is a natural remedy to quickly relieve cramps and stresses in the body. Its sedative and calming effects can also soothe mood swings, depression and other symptoms of menstruation.

Treats Skin Conditions
Aside from Catnip's natural repellent quality, it also has organic compounds to soothe bug bits, relieve skin of irritation and reduce inflammation quickly.

Beneficial For Kidneys
Catnip is a diuretic meaning it promotes urination and quickly eliminating wastes from the body.

Anti-dandruff
Catnip has antiseptic properties that is good for irritated scalp and those with dandruff. The catnip tea can also be used as a conditioner.

Side effects/Precaution:
It's recommended to drink catnip tea at night as this will make one drowsy.

However, since it's also a diuretic it would cause frequent urination and  frequent trips to the bathroom/interrupted sleep.

You should not drink catnip tea if you’re pregnant, as it can cause uterine contractions that may result in premature labor.

Stop drinking catnip tea for several weeks before surgery, so that it doesn’t interfere with or intensify anesthesia and the central nervous system.

Always consult your doctor prior to taking any medications and avoid self-medication.