Purple Yam

Scientific Name: Dioscorea alata

Other name: Ube or greater yam

Description: Purple yam is a tuberous root vegetable known for its striking purple color. It's a staple in various cuisines, particularly in Asian and African countries and have numerous health benefits. They are a versatile and nutritious addition to the diet, offering both medicinal and culinary benefits. They can be boiled, baked, roasted, or added to desserts like cakes and sweet pastries due to their naturally sweet taste and vibrant color. The skin is rough, greyish-brown; while the heart-shaped leaves grow on slender stems rising from long, creeping vines.

Parts Used:

Tuber (Root): The most commonly used part of the purple yam for medicinal purposes. It's rich in nutrients and antioxidants.

Medicinal Uses and Properties:

Antioxidant Properties: Purple yams are high in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: They may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is beneficial for conditions like arthritis.

Blood Sugar Regulation: Some studies suggest that purple yam can help in managing blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for diabetic patients.

Digestive Health: Being a good source of fiber, purple yams can promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.

Nutrition Profile:

Rich in carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C and some B vitamins), and minerals (like potassium, manganese, and copper). Low in fat.

Health Benefits:

Cardiovascular Health: The fiber and antioxidants in purple yam can contribute to heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and improving circulation.

Immune Boosting: Its high vitamin C content supports the immune system.

Skin Health: Antioxidants in purple yams, like anthocyanins, may benefit skin health by preventing signs of aging and improving skin texture.

Cancer Prevention: Early research suggests that the antioxidants in purple yam may have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed in this area.

Bone Health: Purple yams are a good source of minerals like zinc and magnesium, which are important for bone health.

Weight Management: The fiber content in purple yams can promote a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in weight control.

Precautions:

While purple yams are generally considered safe, excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal issues due to their high fiber content.

People with a history of oxalate-containing kidney stones should consume them in moderation, as yams contain oxalates. The leaves, stems, petioles of Dioscorea alata are not edible. Only the flesh of the tuber is edible.    

Maranta Arrowroot

Scientific name:  Maranta arundinacea

Other names: Uraro, obedience plant, bermuda arrowroot, araru, araruta, ararao and hulankeeriya

Description:

Maranta Arrowroot is a fascinating plant with multiple facets. It thrives in the humid rainforests of the Americas, but its cultivation extends worldwide for its valuable starch, ornamental appeal, and even medicinal properties. Let's delve into the details of this remarkable plant:

Stature: A perennial herb reaching a height of 0.3 to 1.5 meters (1 to 5 feet).

Leaves: Elongated and ovate, with prominent veins and a waxy sheen. They fold upwards at night, resembling praying hands, hence the nickname "prayer plant."

Rhizomes: Fleshy underground tubers, the source of arrowroot starch and responsible for the plant's resilience.

Flowers: Inconspicuous clusters of small white blooms appearing sporadically.

Medicinal properties and uses:

Starch: The primary value lies in its easily digestible starch extracted from the rhizomes. This flavorless and hypoallergenic starch finds application in thickening sauces, soups, and baby food. It's also used in gluten-free baking and medicines for its soothing properties.

Ornamental: With its vibrant foliage and compact growth, maranta arrowroot is a popular houseplant. Numerous cultivars boast stunning variegation and patterns, adding a touch of the tropics to any indoor space.

                                                                credit: Istock photo

Medicinal: Traditionally, various parts of the plant have been used to treat ailments like diarrhea, stomach ulcers, and skin infections. Research is ongoing to validate these claims scientifically.

Arrowroot, also known as "Uraro" in some cultures, is a starch obtained from the rhizomes of several tropical plants, traditionally Maranta arundinacea. It's known for its culinary uses as well as its medicinal properties. 

Digestive Health: Arrowroot is easily digestible and is often used in food for people recovering from illness. It's a popular choice for infants and people with digestive issues. It can help alleviate diarrhea and constipation and is used in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.

Gluten-Free: Being naturally gluten-free, it's a suitable starch for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Soothing Agent: Arrowroot is known for its cooling and soothing properties. It's often applied to irritated areas of the skin, such as where rashes or sores have formed.

Nutritional Value: It's a good source of carbohydrates and provides moderate amounts of minerals like potassium, iron, and B vitamins.

Metabolic Processes: The B vitamins in arrowroot aid in metabolic processes, including B-vitamin-dependent enzyme reactions.

Weight Management: As a low-calorie starch, arrowroot can be a part of a weight management diet.

Vegan and Paleo Diet Friendly: It's a popular thickener and binding agent in vegan and paleo diets.

Immune System Support: Arrowroot contains several minerals that are essential for maintaining good health and boosting the immune system.

Circulatory Health: The potassium content in arrowroot can help in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels by relaxing blood vessels and arteries.

Interesting facts:

The genus name "Maranta" honors Bartolomeo Maranta, an Italian physician and botanist who studied the plant in the 16th century.

The common name "arrowroot" supposedly originated from the Carib word "araru," meaning "meal" or "flour."

Maranta arrowroot exhibits a unique phenomenon called nyctinasty, where the leaves fold upwards at night and unfold at dawn. This movement is thought to conserve moisture and protect the leaves from herbivores.

Caring for maranta arrowroot:

These plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.

Maintain moderate soil moisture but avoid overwatering, as they are susceptible to root rot.

Misting the leaves regularly helps maintain humidity, especially in dry climates.

Fertilize lightly during the growing season and reduce or stop during winter.

Overall, the maranta arrowroot is a versatile plant with much to offer. Whether you're looking for a culinary source of valuable starch, a captivating houseplant for your home, or a glimpse into the wonders of the rainforest, this tropical gem has something for everyone.

Precaution:

Remember that while arrowroot has these beneficial properties, it should not replace professional medical advice or treatment. Its effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and the specific health issue. For serious health concerns, consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended.

Yerba Buena

Scientific name: Mentha cordifolia Opiz

Yerba Buena, commonly associated with the species Clinopodium douglasii in traditional herbal medicine contexts in Latin America and the Philippines, is a versatile and aromatic herb. It is part of the mint family, Lamiaceae, which is known for its aromatic members with a wide range of medicinal and culinary uses. The term "Yerba Buena" translates from Spanish to "good herb," reflecting its esteemed position in herbal medicine.

Description:

Growth Habit: Yerba Buena typically exhibits a creeping growth habit, spreading across the ground and forming dense mats. This characteristic makes it an excellent ground cover in gardens.

Leaves: The leaves of Yerba Buena are its most distinctive feature, usually green, soft, and with a slightly serrated edge. They are aromatic, releasing a pleasant fragrance when crushed, which is characteristic of many mint family members.

Flowers: The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that can vary in color from white to light purple, depending on the specific variety and growing conditions.

Height: While the plant primarily spreads across the ground, it can reach up to 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) in height when flowering stalks are produced.

Medicinal Uses:

Yerba Buena is renowned for its medicinal properties, with the leaves being the primary part used for therapeutic purposes. Traditional uses include:

Pain Relief: It is often used to alleviate headaches, toothaches, and stomach aches due to its analgesic properties. It can also relieve symptoms of menstrual cramps, dysmenorrhea and induce the flow of menstruation.

Digestive Aid: The herb can help soothe stomach discomfort, aid in digestion, and relieve gas and bloating.

Respiratory Conditions: Yerba Buena has been used to treat colds, flu, and other respiratory ailments, thanks to its decongestant and expectorant qualities.

Anti-inflammatory: The plant has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for reducing swelling and inflammation in various conditions.

Yerba buena leaves are often used in teas and culinary recipes. Here is a simple recipe for Yerba Buena Tea, which is commonly used for its medicinal properties:

Yerba Buena Tea Recipe:

Take a handful of fresh yerba buena leaves and rinse them thoroughly.

Boil water in a pot and add the leaves.

Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes.

Strain the leaves out, and your tea is ready to be served. You can add honey or lemon for additional flavor.

Precautions and Warnings:

While yerba buena is generally considered safe for most people, there are some precautions and warnings to keep in mind:

Allergies: Individuals with allergies to mint and related plants should avoid yerba buena.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Due to a lack of sufficient research, it is advised that pregnant and breastfeeding women use yerba buena cautiously.

Medication Interactions: Yerba buena can interact with certain medications, so it's important to consult with a healthcare provider if you are on medication.

As with any herbal remedy, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating yerba buena into your health regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or are on medication.

Philippine tea tree (Tsaang Gubat)

Scientific name: Carmona retusa (formerly Ehretia microphylla)

Description:

Tsaang Gubat is a small, densely branched shrub that grows to about 1 to 4 meters in height It's a flowering plant native to the Philippines and commonly found in East and Southeast Asia. Often referred to as Philippine tea tree due to its popular use as a herbal tea. It has small, shiny, elliptical leaves that are about 1 to 2 cm in length, with a smooth or slightly toothed margin. The plant produces small, white or pale blue flowers, which are followed by small, fleshy fruits. The overall appearance of Tsaang Gubat is quite bushy and compact, making it also popular as a bonsai plant.

Parts Used for Medicinal Purposes:

The leaves of Tsaang Gubat are the primary parts used for medicinal applications. These leaves are collected, dried, and then brewed into a tea that is consumed for its health benefits.

Benefits and Medicinal Uses:

Tsaang Gubat has been traditionally used for a variety of medicinal purposes, primarily in Philippine folk medicine. Some of its known benefits and uses include:

Gastrointestinal health: It's commonly used to treat stomachaches, diarrhea, and spasms. It may help in regulating bowel movements and soothing the gastrointestinal tract.

Anti-inflammatory properties: The plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help in reducing inflammation in various parts of the body.

Antimicrobial activity: Tsaang Gubat has been reported to have antimicrobial properties, making it useful in fighting certain bacterial and fungal infections.

Dental care: The leaves are sometimes chewed or used in a mouthwash to maintain oral health, thanks to their antimicrobial properties.

Skin care: Due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, it may be used topically to treat minor skin conditions like wounds and rashes.

Making Tsaang Gubat tea involves a simple process similar to preparing other herbal teas. Here's a basic recipe to follow:

Ingredients:

Fresh or dried Tsaang Gubat leaves. If using fresh leaves, a handful (about a cup) is sufficient for one pot of tea. For dried leaves, use about 2 tablespoons.

Water (approximately 2 cups or 500 ml for one serving)

Instructions:

Prepare the Leaves:

If you're using fresh Tsaang Gubat leaves, wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.

If you're using dried leaves, ensure they are crushed or broken into smaller pieces to maximize the extraction of their beneficial compounds.

Boil the Water:

In a pot, bring the water to a rolling boil. The amount of water can be adjusted based on how strong you want the tea or how many servings you're preparing.

Steep the Leaves:

Once the water is boiling, add the Tsaang Gubat leaves. If you prefer a stronger tea, you can add more leaves.

Reduce the heat and let the leaves simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the water to extract the flavors and beneficial compounds from the leaves. The longer you steep, the stronger the tea will be.

Strain the Tea:

After simmering, remove the pot from heat. Use a fine strainer to separate the leaves from the liquid as you pour the tea into a cup or teapot. This will ensure a clear tea without any leaf debris.

Serve:

The tea can be served hot, which is the traditional way. However, you can also let it cool down to enjoy it as a refreshing iced tea. Some people add a slice of lemon, a bit of honey, or a mint leaf for additional flavor, but traditionally it is consumed plain.

Additional Tips:

Taste Adjustments: The strength and bitterness of the tea can be adjusted by varying the amount of leaves used and the steeping time. Start with less and gradually increase according to your preference.

Storage: If you have leftover tea or if you've made a large batch, you can store it in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Make sure to reheat it or enjoy it cold.

Sourcing Leaves: Ensure that the Tsaang Gubat leaves are sourced from a clean, unpolluted area, especially if you're picking them from the wild, to avoid any contamination.

Enjoy your Tsaang Gubat tea as a soothing, herbal beverage, and remember to consult with a healthcare provider if you're using it for medicinal purposes, especially if you have existing health conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings:

While Tsaang Gubat is generally considered safe when used appropriately, there are some precautions and warnings to keep in mind:

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking Tsaang Gubat if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It's best to avoid use in these situations.

Allergic reactions: As with any plant-based product, some individuals may be allergic to Tsaang Gubat. It's important to monitor for any adverse reactions, especially when using it for the first time.

Interactions with medications: There is limited information on how Tsaang Gubat might interact with pharmaceutical drugs. If you are on medication, consult a healthcare professional before using Tsaang Gubat.

Long-term use and dosage: The appropriate dose of Tsaang Gubat might depend on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. Long-term use and safety have not been extensively studied, so it's wise to use it with caution and preferably under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

As with any medicinal plant, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating Tsaang Gubat into your health regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or are using other medications.

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.