Ringworm Bush (Akapulko) – Cassia alata

Akapulko is a coarse, erect, branched shrub, 1.5 to 3 meters high. Leaves are pinnate and 40 to
60 centimeters long, with orange rachis on stout branches.

An erect, shrubby legume reaching 6 ft tall, Akapulko grows throughout the Philippines. It has
dark green leaves and yellow-orange flowers, producing as much as 50 to 60 small, triangular
seeds. For medicinal purposes, leaves, flowers and seeds are used.

The akapulko leaves contain chrysophanic acid, a fungicide that is used to treat fungal infections,
like ringworms, scabies and eczema

Medicinal Uses:

 Decoction of leaves and flowers is very effective in easing asthma, cough and bronchitis.
 The seeds are effective in expelling intestinal parasites.
 Juice from leaves aids in controlling fungal infections like; eczema, athlete’s foot, ringworm,
scabies, and herpes.
 Pounded leaves reduce injury-related swellings, treat insect bites, and ease rheumatism.
 Leaves and flowers concoction used as mouthwash in treating stomatitis.
 Juice from leaves ease fetid discharges.
 The leaves stain is an effective purgative.
Description of Ampalaya

Ampalaya, or Momordica charantia, is a climbing vine. The vine grows as large as five meters
and has tendrils that are 20 centimeters in length, on average. The leaves of the pant are heart
shaped. Each leaf is between five and ten centimeters wide.

The Uses of Ampalaya for Health

Ampalaya is an alternative medicine; the Philippine Department of Health endorses this fruit as a
natural, alternative herbal medicine for liver problems. Scientific evidence that ampalaya is
healthful is not yet available. However, there are numerous recommendations for how to use this
fruit for health benefits.

 Diabetes: Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics may see improvements to their health by
regularly consuming ampalaya. You can eat the fruit and the leaves. People believe that this
vegetable helps to improve the body's ability to manage glucose.

 Stomach Ache: By extracting the juice from the ampalaya leaves, the juice is utilized for
a natural cure for stomachaches. In the Philippines, people use this juice to treat an
assortment of digestive and stomach ailments including chronic colitis, diarrhea, dysentery
and to rid the body of intestinal parasites. To use ampalaya for this purpose, take a spoonful
of the juice three times per day as needed.

 Skin Irritations: In the Philippines, people use the seeds to treat a variety of skin
conditions including burns, open wounds and rashes. To do this, they take the seeds from
the fruit and pound them. This forms a soft paste. Then, they place the paste on the wound
and allow it to remain there as a topical ointment. You can apply it daily as needed.

 Coughing and Colds: Another method for using ampalaya is as a natural remedy for
coughing and mild to moderate colds. To do this, users extract the juice from the vegetable
and the leaves. Taking a teaspoon of the juice three times per day, as needed, can cure a
cough.
Bawang is a low herb, 30 to 60 centimeters high. True stem is much reduced. Bulbs are broadly
ovoid, 2 to 4 centimeters in diameter, consisting of several, densely crowded, angular and
truncated tubers. Leaves are linear and flat. Umbels are globose, many flowered. Sepals are
oblong, greenish white, slightly tinged with purple. Stamens are not exerted from the perianth.

Properties
• Antibacterial, antihelminthic,
antimycotic, antiviral,
antispasmodic, diaphoretic,
expectorant, fibrinolytic,
hypotensive, promoting
leucocytosis, lipid lowering and
platelet aggregation inhibition.

Uses
Edibility / Culinary
- Widely used by Filipinos for
flavoring dishes.
Folkloric
- In the Philippines, bulbs used for
hypertension. Also used as diuretic, and eaten fresh or burned for coughs in children.
- Arthritis, rheumatism, toothaches: Crush several cloves and rub on affected areas.
- Crush clove applied to both temples as poultice for headache.
- Crush garlic or cut clove crosswise and rub directly to areas of insect bites.
- Decoction of leaves and bulbs for fever and as hypotensive, carminative, expectorant, and
antihelmintic.
- Juice from freshly crushed garlic used for colds, cough, sore throat, hoarseness, asthma and
bronchitis.
- Decoction use for tonsillitis.
- Steam inhalation of chopped garlic and a teaspoon of vinegar in boiling water used for nasal
congestion.
- Fresh garlic has been used as a complement to INH therapy for tuberculosis. In Mexico, fresh
bulb is eaten as a preventive for tuberculosis.
- In India, garlic juice diluted in water, applied externally to prevent hair from turning grey.
- Diluted juice used for earaches and deafness.
- In the Antilles, used as vermifuge.
- Also used for menstrual cramps.
- Used for digestive problems and gastrointestinal spasms.
- Infusion of a peeled broiled clove used for gas pains.
- Juice of bulb with common salt applied to bruises and sprains; also used for neuralgia and
earache.
- Rubbed over ringworm for soothing effect.
- In WWI, fresh raw juice was used as antiseptic for control of wound suppuration.

Studies
• Antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic: Topically, ajoene 0.4% cream, has been found 70%
effective in certain dermatologic fungal infections. A 0.6% gel was effective in tinea corporis
and tinea cruris.
• Anticandidal: Study on the mode of action of aqueous garlic extract (AGE) against Candida
albicans showed garlic treatment affected the structure and integrity of the outer surface of the
yeast cells. Growth was affected in a number of ways: decreased total lipid content, higher
phosphatidylserines and lower phosphatidylcholines, and decrease oxygen consumption of AGE-
treated C. albicans. AGE exerts its effect by oxidation of thiol groups causing enzyme
inactivation and subsequent microbial growth inhibition.
• Hypertension: Studies suggest a beneficial antihypertensive effect but blood-lowering effects
probably not dramatic. Other studies show a vascular benefit through improvement of aortic
elasticity and possible slowing of the rate of atherosclerosis progression.
• Hyperlipidemia / Antioxidant:Controversial, but probably has beneficial effect on serum
cholesterol and LDL levels. Some studies have shown a 4% to 12% lowering of total cholesterol.
It seems to have no effect on high density lipoprotein (HDL).
• Hypocholesterolemic / Fresh Bulbs: Study of feeding of fresh garlic bulbs to induced-
hypercholesterolemic rats showed decrease in total and LDL cholesterol and increase in HDL
levels. (6)
• Lipid Profile Benefits: Study concluded that garlic extracts may have a beneficial effect on
blood lipid profile and antioxidant status. (7) Study evaluated the effect of Allium sativum on
experimentally induced hyperlipidemia in guinea pigs. Aqueous and alcoholic extracts showed
significant hypolipidemic activity with significant reduction in triglycerides, LDLc, VLDLc and
atheriogenic index. (36)
• Anti-cancer / Chemoprotective: Possible anticarcinogenic properties, specifically colon,
stomach and prostate cancers— in stomach cancers, probably through its inhibitory effect on H.
pylori. In epidemiologic studies on stomach and colorectal cancer prevention, the garlic use was
3.5 grams to 30 grams of fresh or cooked garlic per week. • Studies provide ample evidence for a
role of garlic in cancer prevention. The tumor inhibition may be through compounds like
organosulfur in garlic.
• Effect on Salivary Gland Tumorigenesis: Study showed garlic may have an adjuvant effect
on various defense mechanisms against -induced carcinogenesis in sub-maxillary salivary glands
of rat through increased availability or utilization of beta-carotene. (10)
• Hepatoprotective / Hematologic Effects: Study results on female Wistar rats suggest garlic
and vitamin C have some hepatoprotective and hematological effects. (3)
• Antidiabetic: Study evaluated the effect of increasing doses of A. sativum aqueous extracts on
alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Results showed promising hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic
activity. Glibenclamide was used as standard. (29) Study results of ethanolic extracts of AS in
normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats suggest that A. sativum can be considered an
excellent candidate for future studies on diabetes mellitus.
• Sperm Immobilization Activity : Study of crude extract of A. sativum bulb showed
spermicidal activity in vitro. (8)
• Hepatopulmonary Syndrome Treatment: A trial showed garlic may improve oxygenation
and symptoms in patients with hepatopulmonary syndrome. (9)
• Anti-Thrombotic Activity : Study of extracts of Allium sativum and Vernonia amygdalina
showed both extracts offered protection against thrombosis produced by an intravenous injection
of ADP and adrenalin, with A sativum showing the stronger activity. (11)
• Diallyl Sulfide / Anti-Cancer: Study showed diallyl sulfide, a thioether found naturally in
garlic, when given by gavage to mice, inhibited by 74% the incidence of colorectal
adenocarcinoma induced by 1,2-dimethyl-hydrazine. (12)
• Cardiovascular Benefits: Garlic is an ideal herb with its several cardiovascular benefits: blood
pressure lowering, antihyperlipidemic effects, platelet inhibition and fibrinolytic effects,
antioxidant and antiatherosclerotic effects. (14)
• Antibacterial / Anti-Staph aureus: Study of an aqueous extract of Allium sativum showed
concentration-dependent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. (15)
• Antitumorigenesis: Study showed garlic oil may have an adjuvant effect on host defense
mechanisms against DMBA-induced carcinogenesis in sub-maxillary glands of rat through
increased availability and utilization of beta-carotene. (16)
• Antimicrobial / Crude Juices: Study evaluated the antimicrobial activity of crude juices of
Allium ascalonicum, Allium cepa, and Allium sativum. Results showed strong antibiotic
properties, and the complete absence of development of resistance from juices of Allium species
merit consideration. (17)
• Antioxidant: In a study using DPPH scavenging method, raw garlic extract showed a color
change from deep violet to yellow, indicating antioxidant activity. (18)
• Essential Oil / Antibacterial / Pseudomonas Aeruginosa: Essential oil extract from Allium
sativum bulbs showed inhibitory activity on growth of over 50% of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
strains tested. (19)
• Antibacterial / Garlic and Ginger Comparative Study: In a study comparing the
antimicrobial potency of various extracts of garlic and ginger, results showed all the bacterial
strains to be most susceptible to garlic aqueous extract while showing poor susceptibility to the
ginger aqueous extract. (21)
• Chemoprevention: Experimental studies provide compelling evidence that garlic and its
organic allyl sulfur components are effective inhibitors of tumor growth. (22)
• Anti-Ulcer: Study showed the protective role of raw Nigelia sativa, garlic, and onion against
ethanol-induced gastric ulcers and gastric acid secretion. Raw or boiled Nigella sativa, garlic or
onion significantly inhibited histamine stimulated acid secretion. Raw Nigella sativa and garlic
showed a decrease in ulcer index. Boiling reduced the potency of garlic and onion. (23)
• Allyl Alcohol and Garlic in Oxidative Stress Effects on C. Albicans: Study evaluated on the
effects of purified constituents, in particular, allyl alcohol, a metabolic product that accumulates
after titration of garlic cloves on anticandidal activities. Typical changes of oxidative stress were
observed—NADH oxidation and glutathione depletion, and increased reactive oxygen species.
(24)
• Antimicrobial Effects with Combined Extracts: Study evaluated the in vitro antimicrobial
effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of garlic (A. sativum), ginger (Zingiber officinale) and
lime (Citrus aurantifolia) against S. aureus, Bacillus spp., E. coli and Salmonella spp. The
aqueous and ethanolic extracts of garlic and ginger did not inhibit any of the test organisms. The
highest inhibition zone was seen with combination of extracts on Staphylococcus aureus. (25)
• Antibacterial Against Multiple-Drug Resistant Pathogens / Cloves: Ethanol extracts of
cloves of garlic and rhizomes of ginger showed effective antibacterial activity against multi-drug
resistant clinical pathogens. The highest inhibition zone observed with garlic was against
Pseudomonas aeruginosa. (26)
• Effect on Systolic and Diastolic Pressure in Essential Hypertension: Study evaluated the
effect of garlic on blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension. Study showed a
significant decrease in both systolic and diastolic pressure in a dose- and duration-dependent
manner, when compared to atenolol and placebo. (27)
• Improved Diabetic Control with Garlic Supplementation: Study evaluated the potential
effect of garlic in T2DM with the addition of garlic tablets to standard antidiabetic therapy.
Results showed the combination of garlic with typical antidiabetic remedy improved glycemic
control in addition to an antihyperlipidemic activity. (28)
• Anthelmintic: An alcoholic extract of bulb of A. sativum has shown moderate in vitro
anthelmintic activity against human Ascaris lumbricoides. (20) Study evaluated methanol
extracts of various plant materials of ethnoveterinary importance in Pakistan, including A.
sativum, for in vitro anthelmintic activity. All the studied plants showed anthelmintic activity.
(31)
• Analgesic / Anti-Nociceptive: Study evaluated the analgesic and anti-nociceptive effects of
Allium sativum powder in animal models. Results showed the ASP to be effective in both non-
narcotic and narcotic models of nociception, suggesting possible peripheral and central
mechanisms as well as peripheral pathways through inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. (30)
• Immune System Enhancement / Black Garlic: Study evaluated black garlic—created from
ordinary fresh garlic—for antitumor activity. Heat extracts of black garlic were rich in S-allyl-L-
cysteine (SAC) and enforced anti-tumor activity with a 50% cure rate of BALB/c mouse
fibrosarcoma. The black garlic enhanced cellular immunity by raising the activity of NK (natural
killer cell) cells which may play a critical role in eradication of tumor cells inn vivo. There was
also generation of cytokines of NO, IFN-y, IL-2, and TNF-a from the extract-treated mouse
spleen cells. (32)
• Antihypertensive : Study evaluated the cardiovascular effects of aqueous extracts of garlic on
normotensive and hypertensive rats using the two-kidney one clip model. Aqueous garlic
extracts caused a decrease in blood pressure and bradycardia by direct mechanism not involving
the cholinergic pathway in normotensive and 2K1C rats, suggesting a likely peripheral
hypotensive mechanism. (33)
• Effect on the Pharmacokinetic of Metformin / Herb-Drug Interaction: Study evaluated the
pharmacokinetic interactions of Metformin with Allium sativum. Allium sativum altered the
pharmacokinetics of Metformin in rats, increasing bioavailability by significantly increasing its
Cmax and AUC0-12hr and a slight increase in t1/2. (34) Study evaluated the effect of garlic on
metformin in STZ-induced diabetic rats.
• Effect on Liver Glycogen Deposition and Gonadal Protein Metabolism: Study evaluated
the effect of garlic extract on glycogen deposition in the liver and protein metabolism in gonads
of female albino rats. Results showed a significant increase in glycogen and protein level on low
and medium dose of garlic extract, with a significant decrease in glycogen level with high dose
of extract. The quantity of protein depends on rate of protein synthesis or on rate of degradation.
(35)
• Pharmacodynamic Interaction with Cilostazol in Diabetic Patients: Garlic is known to
have antiplatelet properties. Garlic showed significant inhibition of platelet aggregation.
Cilostazol showed significant inhibition at all three time points tested. In the randomized, open
label, placebo-controlled, crossover study of type II diabetes patients, coadministration of aged
garlic extract and cilostazol did not produce any significant change in the antiplatelet activity of
the individual drugs. (38)
• Virucidal: Garlic has been shown to have antiviral activity. Study identified garlic associated
compounds: diallyl thiosulfinate (allicin), allyl methyl thiosulfinate, methyl allyl thiosulfinate,
ajoene, alliin, deoxyalliin, diallyl disulfide, and diallyl trisulfide. Activity was determined against
selected viruses including, herpes simplex virus type 1, herpes simplex virus type 2,
parainfluenza virus type 3, vaccinia virus, vesicular stomatitis virus, and human rhinovirus type
2. Virucidal activity was: ajoene > allicin > allyl methyl thiosulfinate > methyl allyl
thiosulfinate. Results indicate virucidal activity and cytotoxicity may depend upon the viral
envelope and cell membrane, respectively. (39)
• Hepatoprotective / Paracetamol Induced Liver Damage: Study showed administration of A.
sativum extracts protected against paracetamol liver damage in rats. (40)
• Nephroprotective / Cisplatin Toxicity: Study evaluated the in vivo antioxidant and
nephroprotective potential of ethanolic extract of garlic against cisplatin induced nephrotoxicity
in Wistar male rats. Cisplatin induction decreased renal antioxidants with associated increase in
kidney weight, lipid peroxidation and serum kidney markers. Treatment exhibited a protective
effect as evidenced by boosting of antioxidant levels and markers reverting back to near
normalcy. (41)
• Antibacterial / Anti-Pseudomonas / Anti-Staph: Study evaluated the effect of crude
preparation of garlic on clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.
Results showed the targeting of bacterial cell wall and bacteriolytic action of the extract. The
extract appeared to interfere with DNA and RNA synthesis. (42)
• Effect on Systolic Blood Pressure: Pilot study showed individuals with blood pressures on the
lower side are more likely to consume more garlic in their diets. Findings were statistically
significant for systolic blood pressure only. The average garlic use was 134 grams per month; 67
% of use was cooked in foods while the rest consumed it in raw form or in pickles. (43)
• Processed Black Garlic / Enhancement of Anti-Tumor Potency / Antibacterial: Black
garlic processed from ordinary white garlic clove in temperature- and humidity-controlled
conditions showed enhanced anti-tumor potency. The aged black garlic yielded an increased
amount of amino acids and organo-sulfur substance, S-allyl-L.cysteine (SAC), which might have
contributed to the anti-tumor potency. Tumor cure rate was 50% against Meth A fibrosarcoma of
BALB/c mouse. (44)
• Antifibrinolytic: The fibrinolytic system dissolves fibrin clots in circulation. Study showed the
garlic extract exhibited fibrinolytic effect. Minimum concentration and maximum time showed
the best results. (45)
• Antihyperglycemic / Antihypercholesterolemic /Combination with Ginger: Study
evaluated the single and combined effect of Allium sativum and Zingiber officinale (ginger)
against hyperglycemia and hypercholesterolemia in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Results
showed the combined use of garlic and ginger is more effective in controlling hyperglycemia and
hypercholesterolemia compared to either one alone. (46)
• Hypocholesterolemia: Study evaluated the effect of garlic supplementation on reducing
cholesterol levels on 50 healthy patients given 3 g of raw garlic daily for a period of 90 days.
Results showed a significant decrease in cholesterol levels: 13% (p<0.001) from 269.30 to
233.93 mg/dL in male patients and 10% (p<0.001) from 260.30 to 233.90 mg/dL in female
patients. (47)
• H. pylori Inhibition: Study investigated the antibacterial effect of aqueous extract of garlic
against Helicobacter pylori. The concentration of AGE (aqueous garlic extract) required to
inhibit bacterial growth was between 2-5 mg/ml. Boiling and heat treatment reduced the efficacy
of the AGE. An antibacterial synergistic effect was seen in combination with a proton-pump
inhibitor (omeprazole) in rate of 250:1. (48)
• Effect on Pituitary-Gonadal Axis in Heat-Stressed Mice: Study evaluated the effects of
garlic extract on reproductive hormones in female mice under heat stress. Results showed
significant increase in estrogen and progesterone levels and suggests potential to neutralize
negative effects of stress affecting the pituitary-gonadal axis and ovarian hormonal secretion.
(49)
• Benefit in Type 2 DM Patients / Powder and Aqueous Extract of Bulbs: Study showed both
dry powdered plant and aqueous extract of bulbs of Allium sativum decrease blood and urine
glucose levels in type 2 diabetic patients, especially in the group taking oral hypoglycemics with
inadequate blood glucose control. (50)

Bayabas Or Guavas in abundance at the local markets right now. Guavas (Psidium
guajava L.) are part of the huge Myrtaceae family that includes eucalyptus and
even makopa. Though no one is certain, guavas are believed to have originated in Mexico or
slightly further South in Central America according to Alan Davidson in the Oxford
Companion to Food. Another expert source, Elizabeth Schneider, writes that they are
native to Brazil… at any rate, they now flourish throughout the tropical world and are an
extremely common backyard fruit in the Philippines. Until just two decades or so ago, the
smaller more “native― guavas predominated. Today, millions of those backyard trees still
exist but the more commercially oriented large shiny skinned hybrids are what we see in the
markets at relatively steep prices. There is a tremendous variety of guavas from those the size of
small grapefruit to those the size of a small apricot. They can be green, yellow or even orange in
color and can be extremely pungent and flavorful when ripe.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Diarrhea
Drinking guava leaf tea, taking its extract as a capsule, or adding a few drops of the essential oil
to a cup of warm water can help loosen the bowels to treat diarrhea. In a 2008study published in
the Journal of Smooth Muscle Research, researchers sought to test the anti-diarrheal properties of
guava leaves on rats. They found the extract was able to delay the onset of castor oil-induced
diarrhea, decrease the frequency of defecation, and reduce the severity of diarrhea in the rats.
This science merits the folkloric use of the plant as a natural remedy for managing and
controlling diarrhea.
Obesity
While guava is high in fiber and has a low glycemic index, making it a useful supplement for
weight loss, guava leaves and their extract can also help. They do this by inhibiting complex
starches from converting into sugars. Typically, the sugar is metabolized by the liver where it
gets turned into fat, and then secreted into the blood. This is what contributes to weight gain.
Diabetes
The high fiber content in guava can help manage diabetes by slowing down sugar absorption in
the blood. But guava leaf extract can prevent type 2 diabetes from developing, according to a
2010 study published in the journal Nutrition and Metabolism. The study authors used guava leaf
tea, which has been approved as one of the Foods for Specified Health Uses, and is now
commercially available in Japan. This emphasizes the importance of how a commitment to
managing blood sugar levels can prevent type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Revathi Sundaramurthy, a doctor for iCliniq.com, supports the use of guava for diabetics.
“Guava has low glycemic index, even diabetic patients can consume guava, which prevents
fluctuation in insulin and glucose levels” she told Medical Daily in an email.
High Cholesterol
Regularly taking guava leaf for months can help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides
without any side effects, according to the aforementioned 2010 study fromNutrition and
Metabolism. Eating the fruit can also provide the same benefits as guava leaf, as it only has 0.1
grams of saturated fat and 0.2 grams of unsaturated fat, according to theUSDA. With such low
levels of this fat, it’s no wonder guava helps to reduce cholesterol.
Gastric Cancer
Guava leaf extract is so potent that it has the potential to treat patients with gastric (stomach)
cancer. Its anticancer and antitumor properties come from compounds, like lycopene, quercetin,
and vitamin C, which work as antioxidants to neutralize free-radical damage in the body. A
2011 study published in the journal Food Chemistry found that when the plant extract is
consumed it leads to apoptosis, or gastric cancer cells attacking themselves.
Using guava in its essential oil form can also produce anticancer activity in the body. A
2006 study published in the journal Cancer Letters revealed guava essential oils could slow
cancer activity in patients with stomach cancer, due in part to its rich concentration of nerolidiol,
caryophyllene, beta bisabolene, p-selinene, aromandreno, tannins, beta sitosterol, leucocyanidins,
and triterpenoids.
Prostate Cancer
Guava leaves’ high lycopene content is vital to fighting cancers, such as breast, prostate, and
oral. Its cancer-fighting properties help inhibit the production of androgen, which is the male
hormone responsible for the growth of cells in some types of prostate cancer, according to a
2012 study published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research.
YERBA BUENA tea may describe a number of different forms of tea made from wild mint and
other closely related species. Depending on what part of the world you’re in, the term yerba
buena may describe various related species, the most popular of which is scientifically known
as Mentha arvensis. Also known as field mint or corn mint, this plant is native to Europe and
Asia, as well as parts of North America. The leaves of this plant are often used to prepare yerba
buena tea, which has a pleasant mint flavor, although it is more subtle than
traditional spearmint or peppermint. As mentioned earlier, in some parts of the world, this tea is
synonymous with spearmint, whereas, in other regions, this tea is a milder form of tea made from
a different species.

Yerba buena (Mentha arvensis Linn) is a rambling aromatic herb of the mint family that is
known and used as herbal medicine worldwide.

Benefits of Yerba Buena Tea

The most notable health benefits of yerba buena tea include its ability to soothe digestion,
eliminate bad breath, aid in weight loss, reduce menstrual discomfort, and protect the immune
system, among others.

Skin Care

Packed with antioxidants, this tea is able to eliminate free radicals and boost skin health, limit
wrinkles, and soothe inflammation.

Boosts Immune System

With catechins and polyphenolic compounds, yerba buena tea can strengthen the body’s defenses
against viral andbacterial pathogens.

Aids in Digestion

The anti-inflammatory nature of this tea can help your stomach balance its pH levels and soothe
inflammation causing diarrhea or constipation.
Respiratory System

A few glasses of this tea each day can reduce the amount of phlegm and mucus in
your respiratory tracts, while also eliminating the underlying infection.

Weight Loss

Known to boost the metabolism and increase energy levels, this tea can help you lose weight by
suppressing the appetite and increasing your passive fat-burning potential.

Relieves Pain

Traditionally used as an analgesic substance, this tea is good for pain, both topically and when
consumed as a tea. This is great for people suffering from arthritis or recovering from an
illness/injury.

Culinary & Cosmetic Uses

Yerba buena tea is primarily used as a beverage, as it has many internal applications, but due to
its highconcentration of antioxidants and other active ingredients, it can also be applied topically,
once it is allowed to cool. Many of the effects it can have on the skin and hair are more
pronounced if the tea is used externally. For medical reasons, it is safe to consume 4 cups of this
tea per day for a week.
LAGUNDI

Lagundi (scientific name: Vitex negundo) as mentioned

earlier is native to the Philippine Islands and has been
used for centuries because of its therapeutic properties.
It is a large shrub which can grow up to five meters
tall; with a single thick woody stem like a trunk. Its
leaves are pointed and having five leaflets set like a
hand. Most of the parts of the lagundi plant have
medicinal values which is why it is actively promoted by the Philippine Department of Health.

Uses

This combination medication is used to temporarily treat cough, chest congestion, and stuffy nose
symptoms caused by the common cold, flu,allergies, hay fever, or other breathing illnesses
(e.g., sinusitis, bronchitis).Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps to thin and loosen mucus in
thelungs, making it easier to cough up the mucus. Dextromethorphan is acough suppressant that
affects a certain part of the brain (cough center), reducing the urge to cough. This product also
contains a decongestant, which helps relieve stuffy nose symptoms.

This medication is usually not used for ongoing coughs from smoking,asthma, other long-
term breathing problems (e.g., emphysema), orcoughs with a lot of mucus, unless directed by your
doctor.

Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6
years. Therefore, do not use this product to treatcold symptoms in children younger than 6 years
unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are
not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
details about using your product safely.

These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common coldand may cause serious side
effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use
this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain
the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactionssection). Ask the doctor or pharmacist
about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a
humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

HEALTH BENEFITS OF NIYOG NIYOGAN

lso known as Chinese honeysuckle, Rangoon Creeper and Quiscual, Niyog-niyogan is a large
climbing, woody shrub that is native in Southeast Asian countries including the Philippines that
grows up to 20 feet with rounded leaves and fragrant and colorful flowers of white, red, reddish
purple, pink red to orange. It also has an edible fruit with black seeds.

Niyog-niyogan is a popular medicinal herb in the Philippines for its deworming properties. Its
seeds are dried and taken orally to expel Intestinal Worms and Parasites. However, it also causes
adverse reactions such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, distension and hiccups especially if the seeds
are eaten consecutively.

BLUMEA BALSAMIFERA

Blumea balsamifera is a flowering plant belonging to the Blumea genus, Asteraceaefamily. It's
also known as Ngai camphor and sambong (also sembung).
Description[edit]

In the Philippines, where it is most commonly known as sambong, Blumea balsamifera is used
in traditional herbal medicine for the common cold and as adiuretic.[1][2][3] It is also used for
infected wounds, respiratory infections, and stomach pains in Thai and Chinese folk medicine.[4]

The genus Blumea is found in the tropical and sub-tropical zones of Asia, especially the Indian
Subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Blumea balsamifera is one of its species that is used
in Southeast Asia. A weed, this plant is a ruderal species that often grows on disturbed
land,[1] and in grasslands.[3] It has been described physically as:

Softly hairy, half woody, strongly aromatic shrub, 1-4 meters (m) high. Simple, alternate,
broadly elongated leaves, 7-20 cm long, with toothed margin and appendaged or divided base.
Loose yellow flower head scattered along much-branched leafy panicles. Two types of discoid
flowers: peripheral ones tiny, more numerous, with tubular corolla; central flowers few, large
with campanulate corolla. Anther cells tailed at base. Fruit (achene) dry, 1-seeded, 10-ribbed,
hairy at top.

— Sambong listing at Stuart X Change list of Medicinal plants

13 Health Benefits of Sambong”

“Sambong grows in the tropics and does a great job of lowering blood pressure, healing urinary
tract infections, lowering fevers, helping with PMS and more.”

Where it Grows - Sambong also known as Blumea balsamifera, Lakad-bulan, Blumea camphor,
Dalapot and many more names grows all over in the tropics of Asia and in the Phillipines where
sambong is well known as a powerful healing agent.
Sambong is also used in China, Korea, Thailand, Africa, and even India.

History - Sambong has been used effectively in Asia for treating all kinds of health challenges
for hundreds of years. In fact in the Philippines sambong is registered as a true medicine with the
food and drug department and is available in tablet form at pharmacies.

Diuretic - Sambong is a powerful diuretic that helps to detox the body and cleans the urinary
tract… plus get rid of excess water retention.
Urinary Challenges - Sambong is well known for treating urinary tract problems such as urinary
tract infections… and kidney and bladder stones. Because sambong is a good antibacterial and
diuretic agent it’s a great choice for urinary related challenges.
The Philippine National Kidney and Transplant Institute recommends sambong to slow the
progression of renal disease.

Lowers Blood Pressure - Sambong also lowers blood pressure like most blood pressure
medications because it acts as a diuretic.

Antioxidants - Sambong contains powerful antioxidants that help to prevent cardiovascular

disease, strokes, and cancer. Plus sambong helps to prevent and repair DNA damage caused by
free radicals.

PMS - Sambong tea has also been used to sooth away menstrual cramps, help with bloating, and
stimulate blood flow to the pelvic region.

Sore Throats - Sambong tea has long been used to sooth away sore throats and it works well as a
gargle.

GI Tract - Sambong is a good antispasmodic agent that contains volatile oils that sooth away
diarrhea, cramping, and irritations.

Liver Disease - Sambong contains methanolic compounds which might have the ability to slow
the progression of liver cancer without toxicity.

Antibacterial and Anti-fungal - Sambong contains cyptomeridiol and icthyothereol acetate which
have the ability in laboratory conditions to kill bacteria and fungi such as E. coli, P aeruginosa, B
subtilis, S aureus, and C albicans and A niger.

Fevers - Sambong tea taken orally lowers fevers, and adding sambong tea to your bath also helps
to lower fevers.

Oral Pain Relief - Sambong tea helps with the pain associated with dental procedures… just
gargle with some sambong tea and the pain will disappear.
Colds and Flues - Because sambong contains methanolic compounds it can also help with the
symptoms of coughs, colds, and flues.

Skin Wounds - Because sambong contains antimicrobial agents using the tea and powders on
skin wounds promotes healing.
Forms - Sambong can be found as teas, dried leaves, powders, tablets, capsules, and many other
forms.

Taste - Sambong has a nice menthol taste that’s very soothing to the stomach.

Making Tea - Take a heaping teaspoon of the dried leaves and steep in hot water for 10 to 15
minutes and then let cool and drink.

Dose - Drinking 3 to 4 cups of sambong tea daily… and sambong can be used for long periods of
time without problems.

Side Effects - To date there are no known side effects to sambong. But as with any medication or
herbal remedy women who are pregnant or breast feeding should not use sambong.

TSAANG GUBAT OR WILD TEA (EHRETIA MICROPHYLLA LAM.)

1 gabi lang,
Papillomas
tanggal na
on your back
ang
and neck
mabahong
mean you
hininga,
have these in
kapag bago
your body...
matulog ay...
Tsaang Gubat is one of the 10 herbs that is endorsed the Philippine Department of Health (DOH) as
anantispasmodic for abdominal (stomach) pains. And is registered as a herbal medicine at the
Philippine Bureau of Food & Drug (BFAD).

Tsaang Gubat is a shrub (small tree) that grows (from 1 to 5 meters) abundantly in the Philippines.
In folkloric medicine, the leaves has been used as a disinfectant wash during child birth, as cure for
diarrhea, as tea for general good heath and because Tsaang Gubat has high fluoride content, it is
used as a mouth gargle for preventing tooth decay. Research and test now prove it's efficacy as an
herbal medicine. Aside from the traditional way of taking Tsaag Gubat, it is now
available commercially in capsules, tablets and tea bags.

Tsaang Gubat is also knows as: Wild Tea, Forest Tea, Alibungog (Visayas Region), Putputai (Bicol
Region) and Maragued (Ilocos Region). Scientific name: Ehretia Microphylla Lam.

Health Benefits of Tsaang Gubat: Preparation & Use:

• Stomach pains • Thoroughly wash the leaves of tsaang gubat in

• Gastroenteritis running water. Chop to a desirable size and boil 1
• Intestinal motility cup of chopped leaves in 2 cups of water. Boil in
• Dysentery low heat for 15 to 20 minutes and drain.
• Diarrhea or Loose Bowel Movement (LBM) • Take a cupful every 4 hours for diarrhea,
• Mouth gargle gastroenteritis and stomach pains.
• Body cleanser/wash • Gargle for stronger teeth and prevent cavities.
• Drink as tea daily for general good health.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF PANCIT PANCITAN

Analgesic/Anti-inflamatory action of pansit-pansitan

Pansit-pansitan has been traditionally used to treat

fever, cough, common cold, headache and arthritis. In
a study of aerial parts of peperomia extract in mice
indicated that it excibited anti-inflammatory and
analgesic activities. The anti-inflammatory activity
was attributed to interference with prostaglandin
synthesis. In another study done on rabbits, pansit-
pansitan extract exhibited an anti-pyretic activity
which indicated that it is comparable to standard
aspirin.
Antioxidant activity of pansit-pansitan
In a study done on P.Pellucida exract, it has shown
that is has string scavenging activity against free radicals suggesting that pansit pansitan is a
good natural anti-oxidant
Uric Acid reduction in blood
in a controlled study involving rats, extracts from P. pellucida were administered and uric acid
levels were monitored. The study have shown that rats that were subjected to pansit pansitan
extract indicated a 44% reduction in uric acid in blood while those that are not given allpurinol
drug have shown 66% reduction in uric acid level. This results that pansit pansitan may contain
compounds that maybe used as alternative to allopurinol to control uric acid levels in the blood.
Depressant activity of pansit-pansitan
In a study done in bangladesh, mice were given nikethamide to induce excitement. The mice
were later administered with extracts from pepperomia pellucida to determine its depressant
activity. The results of the study sugges that pansit-pansitan extract has a dose dependent
depressant activity that is beneficial for treatment of excessive mental excitement disorder.