Siling Labuyo - Capsicum Frutescens

A very good analgesic, anti- inflammatory, anti-cancer.  Siling labuyo contains a powerful phyto-chemical – capsaicin. Stimulates the sexual appetite. Traditionally used  for toothache, arthritis, and rheumatism.

Siling labuyo (Capsicum Frutescens) is a variety of cayenne pepper commonly found in Southeast Asian Region. It is small in size compared to its cousins from the west but this little chili pepper packs a lot more pungent odor and taste. Siling labuyo is widely used in traditional herbal medicine to alleviate pain and inflammation due to arthritis, gout and fibromyalgia. Scientific Name: Capsicum Frutescens Also knows as: Siling palay, siling bundok (Tagalog), African Chili, African Bird pepper, Tabasco pepper, Chile pepper, Cayenne pepper, red pepper, Chili pepper (English), Tjabe Rawit, lombok riewit (Indonesia). Siling labuyo (capsicum frutescens) is a variety of cayenne pepper commonly found in Southeast Asian Region. It is commonly mistaken as capsicum annum which has many similar physical characteristics but siling labuyo has more pungent odor and taste.

Description of Siling Labuyo. Siling labuyo is an annual or short perennial erect plant growing  to a height of .5 to 1.2 meters in warm climates. Siling labuyo plant has woody branches with leaves that are oblong with pointed tip about 3 to 8 cm in length. Flowers bloom in a central axil, white, pale green or yellow-green in color. The fruit of siling labuyo is small, conical and tapering in shape about 1.5 to 3 cm long. Siling labuyo may be pale green or yellow turning red as it ripens and contains many small seeds.  Siling labuyo may be small but it is considered as among the hottest variety of chili pepper.

Siling labuyo Traditional Health Benefits

Siling labuyo is widely used as folkloric herbal medicine. Siling labuyo is known for the following health benefits: Fibromyalgia. Chili or siling labuyo consumption can improve the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Relieves heavy menstrual bleeding. A decoction of half a teaspoon of siling labuyo mixed with warm water taken twice a day can alleviate symptoms of heavy bleeding. Relieves pain and inflammation. Crushed siling labuyo is mixed with oil and massaged to joint pains, gout, arthritis and rheumatism to relieve pain and inflammation. Can increase blood flow. Crushed siling labuyo is a strong rubefacient, or irritant that makes the skin to become red by causing dilation of the capillaries and an increase in blood circulation. Antibiotic properties. Crushed leaves of siling labuyo are applied to skin wounds and sores, believed to possess antibiotic properties. Decongestant. Siling labuyo infusion is used in treating cough and stuffed nose due to colds and fever. It is used to stimulate mucus flow from sinus cavities clearing the congestion. Sore throat. Siling labuyo is used to treat sore throat when gargled. Stomach problems. Infusion of siling labuyo is used as body stimulant and antispasmodic. It is used to treat flatulence and dyspepsia. Toothache. Juice from crushed siling labuyo is applied into tooth cavities to relieve toothache. Diabetes. Siling labuyo is believed to lower blood cholesterol and can help cure diabetes. Fever and typhus. Infusion of siling labuyo is used to treat typhus and fevers.

Scientific Studies: Siling labuyo Herbal Medicine

Siling labuyo is a variety of Cayenne pepper whose therapeutic actions is used for various medical conditions which includes; rubefacient, vasomotor stimulant, aphrodisiac, expectorant, topical vasodilator, pain reliever and many others. The active ingredient of cayenne pepper (siling labuyo) is capsaicin, a chemical compound that creates a feeling of burning pain. Capsaicin used in OTC topical pain reliever works by tricking the cells to release a substance that the brain interprets as burning pain thus acting on it, depletes the chemical signal resulting to pain relief.

Capsicum pain plaster in chronic non-specific low back pain

In a study conducted in Germany, the pharmacodynamics action of capsaicin to relieve pain associated with neuropathic and musculoskeletal disorders has been confirmed. A group of people suffering from chronic nonspecific back pain has been given capsaicin plaster as treatment. After 3 weeks of treatment, results were compared to a control group who were administered with placebo. I was established that those who were given capsaicin treatment reported a notable reduction of pain as compared to those treated with placebo. This confirmed that repeated application of capsaicin bring about desensitisation to pain and that it is likewise reversible.  (Journal: Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2001, vol. 51).

Capsaicin anti-inflammatory effect in H-pylori infected gastric epithelial cells.

In a laboratory study, gastric epithelial cells were pre-treated with various concentrations of capsaicin then infected with H-pylori bacteria at different times to determine if capsaicin can inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory cytokine. Test results have shown that nontoxic dose of capsaicin inhibited H. pylori-induced IL-8 production by gastric epithelial cells through the modulation of IkappaB-, NF-kappaB-, and IL-8 pathways. This concludes that capsaicin can be proposed as a potential anti-inflammatory drug by inhibition of the production of IL-8 in H. pylori-infected gastric epithelium. (The Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Seoul, Korea: Helicobacter, October 2007).

Potential Health Benefit of Capsaicin in Siling Labuyo for Type 2 Diabetes

In a crossover study done in Thailand, 12 healthy volunteers were given oral glucose tolerance test while taking placebo or 5 grams of capsicum. The results showed that plasma glucose levels in volunteers who received capsicum were significantly lower than those in the placebo group at 30 and 45 minutes (p < 0.05). Furthermore, plasma insulin levels were significantly higher at 60, 75, 105, and 120 minutes (p < 0.05). When comparing before and after capsicum intake, the results showed the insulin levels were maintained. This study suggests that 5 grams of capsicum can decrease the plasma glucose level and may have clinical implications in the management of type 2 diabetes (Pharmacological effects of capsicum frutescens in decreasing plasma glucose level; Journal of Medical Association of Thailand, January 2009)

Anti-bacterial and anthelmintic activity of capsicum frutescens leaves.

In the course of study, it was observed that capsicum frutescens leaves are rich in carbohydrates, potassium and iron. The methanolic extract showed dose dependent antibacterial activity against  S. aureus,  K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa. The anthelmintic effect of all concentrations was lesser when compared to standard. (Pharmacognosy Journal, February 2010)

Siling labuyo Usage, Dosage

Siling labuyo (Capsicum Frutescens) plant can be readily grown in most soil even on pots. The plant can be available from your local horticulturist. The siling labuyo fruit however is widely available in most wet markets, grocery stores and supermarkets under the spices section. Siling labuyo can be bought by packets or by the kilo. Dried powdered form is likewise available as well as those in paste form. There are many varieties of siling labuyo, but the local ones that are smaller in size compared to those that came from China and Taiwan are hotter and more potent.

How to use Siling labuyo herbal medicine?

Siling labuyo fruit. The fuit has a pungent and hot taste. It is usually used to spice foods. Pounded fruit are also mixed with carrier oil such as coconut oil and used to massage over the affected area. Siling labuyo leaves. Fresh Siling labuyo leaves can be pounded or chewed and consumed by mouth. It can also be used in cooking. Siling labuyo poultice. Fresh Siling labuyo leaves can be pounded and applied directly to the affected area.

Balbas-pusa - Orthosiphon aristatus

Balbas-pusa leaves are well known for its anti-hypertensive qualities due to its high percentage of potassium and a bitter alkaloid, orthosiphonin plus methylpariochromene (MRC). Vasodilating action, decrease in cardiac output, and diuretic action when given to stroke-prone hypertensive rats (Matsubara et al, 1999, Ohashi et al, 2000).

Scientific Name: Orthosiphon aristatus. Also knows as: Balbas-pusa (Filipino); Kabling-parang (Pilipino); Yaa-nuat-maeo (Thailand); Cat's whisker (English); Indian kidney tea (English); Java tea (English); Kidney tea (English); Mao xu cao (Chinese); pokok misai kucing (Malay). Cat's whisker or Balbas pusa (Orthosiphon aristatus) is a tropical herbaceous perennial plant that is native in Southeast Asia usually found in China, Taiwan, Philippines, Thailand and even in Australia. Balbas pusa, commonly referred to as Java tea is a herb used as medicine for many centuries.

Orthosiphon aristatus (balbas pusa) is an erect, slender shrub that can grow 1-2 meters in height. The leaves are semi-deciduous, light to dark green in color and are borne in distant pairs that is about 5-10 cm long.. The stalk is reddish-brown, that is slightly puberulent. The flowers forms a pagoda like shaped with 5-6 cm long stamens that resembles a cat’s whiskers, hence the name 'balbas pusa' in tagalog and 'cat's whisker' in english. The color of the flowers varies from white to purplish.

Balbas pusa (Cat's whisker) Traditional Health Benefits. Balbas pusa or Cat's whiskers is also popularly known as Java tea is widely used as folkloric herbal medicine for centuries. Balbas pusa is known for the following health benefits: renal inflammation, kidney stones and dysuria; liver and bladder problems including bladder stones; urinary tract infection; diabetes; rheumatism and gout.; reduction of cholesterol and blood pressure; anti allergic, antihypertensive, and anti-inflammatory; diuretic or stimulates urine production

Scientific Studies: Cat's Whisker (Orthosiphon aristatus ) Herbal Medicine. Kidney Stones Treatment. Clinical trials have shown that in 40% of patients with kidney stones of 0.5 cm diameter that was subjected to orthosiphon indicated an improvement in six months. In a similar study, about In 20% of the patients with other kidney complaints were cured and the patients were free of pain and discomfort.

Diabetes Treatment. In a study conducted for Orthosiphon. Results have demonstrated that there is reduction in blood sugar level for non-insulin dependent diabetics after being subjected for treatment in six months. Orthosiphon also acts on hypertension (high blood pressure). It reduces water and therefore as it has no side effects it can be used in place of pharmaceutical diuretics whether these are potassium saving, uricosurics, or others. It also has a significant effect on high renal blood pressure. As a consequence of treating high blood pressure, kidney stones and disorders can also be cured.

Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of Orthosiphon stamineus. In a clinical study in rats using methanol/water extract of orthosiphon have shown that orthosiphon exhibited antioxidant, lipid peroxidation inhibition and free radical scavenging activities into he rats' liver. (Basir R, Asmawi MZ, Ismail Z. School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia)

Effects of Orthosiphon stamineus aqueous extract on plasma glucose concentration and lipid profile in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The study has shown that In oral glucose tolerance test, the extract (0.2-1.0 g/kg) significantly decreased plasma glucose concentration in a dose-dependent manner in both normal and diabetic rats. (Sriplang K, Adisakwattana S, Rungsipipat A, Yibchok-Anun S. Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand)

A long-term study on the efficacy of a herbal plant, Orthosiphon grandiflorus, and sodium potassium citrate in renal calculi treatment. A was performed to compare the efficacy of a herbal plant, Orthosiphon grandiflorus (OG), and the drug sodium potassium citrate (SPC) in treatment of renal calculi. The study has shown that herbal tea prepared from orthosiphon plant taken for 18 months has significant reduction of renal stones and there were strong indications that symptoms related to renal problems has greatly improved. (Premgamone A, Sriboonlue P, Disatapornjaroen W, Maskasem S, Sinsupan N, Apinives C. Department of Community Medicine, Faculty Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand)

Antihypertensive substance in the leaves of kumis kucing (Orthosiphon aristatus) in Java Island. Among those thirteen substances, it was found that a major constituent in the water decoction of leaves, methylripariochromene A (5), exhibited a continuous decrease in systolic blood pressure after subcutaneous administration in conscious stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (Ohashi K, Bohgaki T, Shibuya H. Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, ukuyama University, Hiroshima, Japan.)

Balbas pusa (Cat's whisker) Usage, Dosage. Balbas pusa or Java Tea Preparation: Wash fresh Balbas pusa or cat's whisker leaves; Chop then add in 4 cups of water for every 1 cup; Let it boil for 10 to 15 minutes; Let it steep then strain.; Drink half cup of balbas pusa tea also known as java tea three times a day; Balbas pusa tea concoction can be stored in suitable glass container for later consumption; Dried leaves are more potent. Follow instructions in the label for proper use.

Orthosiphon Use Warnings and Side Effects. Java tea or balbas pusa tea has no known and reported contra indications and side effects with other drugs. While it is generally safe to take java tea or balbas pusa tea, prolonged intake is discourage as this may cause low sodium serum in the body.

Pregnancy and Breast feeding. There are no sufficient studies made to determine the side effects of java tea (balbas pusa tea) taken in medicinal amounts to infants and babies. Stay on the safe side, avoid taking balbas pusa in herbal medicine dosages when pregnant and while breast feeding. Allergies. In rare cases, the herb has caused allergic side effects. Fluid retention. Don’t use java tea as “irrigation therapy” when fluid retention or edema is due to kidney or heart related problems.

Malunggay - Moringa oleifera

Malunggay is the best vegetable in the world. It contains all the vitamins, minerals, most amino acids and anti-oxidants that we need every day. Malunggay studies show chemopreventive potential against cancer. Contains the anti-oxidant enzyme, glutathione (Bharali et al, 2003). What is Malungay? Malungay is a tree found throughout the Philippines, including Mt. Banahaw. It is a common vegetable found in the market. They are a rich source of calcium and iron. The leaves are purgative, and diuretic. As high as 9 m; has a soft, white wood and corky, gummy bark. Root has the taste of horseradish. Each compound leaf contains 3-9 very thin leaflets dispersed on a compound (3 times pinnate) stalk. Flowers white and fragrant, producing long, pendulous, 9-ribbed pods. 3-angled winged seeds. Introduced from Malaya or some other part of tropical Asia in prehistoric times. Grown throughout the Philippines in settled areas as a backyard vegetable and as a border plant. Drought resistant and grows in practically all kinds of well-drained soils. Conserves water by shedding leaves during dry season. Propagation by seeds and stem cuttings.

Properties: Galactagogue, rubefacient, antiscorbutic, diuretic, stimulant, purgative. Distribution: Grown throughout the Philippines as a vegetable or border plant. Parts utilized: Flowers, leaves, young pods Constituents: Ben oil, 36% – palmitic, stearic, myristic, oleic, and behenic acids, phytosterin; two alkaloids the mixture of which has the same action as epinephrine.

Commercial Use: Oil, known as ben oil, extracted from flowers can be used as illuminant, ointment base, and absorbent in the enfleurage process of extracting volatile oils from flowers. The oil, applied locally, has also been helpful for arthritic pains, rheumatic and gouty joints. Nutritional: Flowers, leaves and pods eaten as a vegetable. Source of calcium, iron, phosphorus and vitamins.

Medicinal Use: Young leaves increases the flow of milk. Pods for intestinal parasitism. Constipation: Leaves and fruit. Decoction of boiled roots used to wash sores and ulcers. Decoction of the bark used for excitement, restlessness; Pounded roots used as poultice for inflammatory swelling. Juice of roots is used for otalgia. Decoction of roots is use as gargle for hoarseness and sore throat. Boiled leaves used to help increase lactation. Seeds for hypertension, gout, asthma, hiccups, and as a diuretic. Rheumatic complaints: Decoction of seeds; or, powdered roasted seeds applied to affected area. Juice of the root with milk used for asthma, hiccups, gout, lumbago. Poultice of leaves applied for glandular swelling.

Yerba Buena - Mentha cordifolia

Yerba buena is a very good analgesic. Excellent for headaches and body pains without the side effects on the kidney and liver compared to synthetic analgesics. Considered as a drug after human clinical trials. What is Yerba Buena? Yerba Buena is an herb of the mint family. It is an aromatic plant used as herbal medicine worldwide. This perennial plant’s growth ranges from 0.6 meters to 1 meter. It has elongated leaves and in summers, it bears small whitish or purplish flowers. Such flowers possess both male and female organs that allow it to be pollinated by bees and animals of the same nature. The word Yerba Buena is Spanish for "good herb" and was the former name of the California city of San Francisco.

Before its medicinal value has been recognized, Yerba Buena was first used as an ingredient in numerous cuisines. It became popular because of its distinctively strong spearmint flavor, thus making it ideal for salads. The leaves are the source of this flavor, and they may be added to viands and meals, either raw or cooked. It has also been effective to drive away rats and other rodents, because of its strong smell of mint that it emits. Thus, besides its medicinal value, it has long been recognized to have strong commercial demand due to the variety of uses that the plant have.

Yerba Buena has been consumed for centuries as tea and herbal medicine as a pain reliever (analgesic). Native American Indians used it even before the "white men" colonized the Americas. Today, this folk medicine's efficacy has been validated by scientific research. In the Philippines, Yerba Buena is one of the 10 herbs endorsed by the Department of Health (DOH) as an effective alternative medicine for aches and pains. It has been recognized for its antiseptic, anti-cancer, diuretic, anti-spasm, anti-emetic activities. Properties of this herbal plant are also found to function as stimulant and to have restorative effects.

As an herbal medicine, a decoction (boil leaves then strain) of Yerba Buena is effective for minor ailments such as headaches, toothaches, and joint pains. It can also relieve stomachaches due to gas buildup and indigestion. The fresh and dried leaves can both be used for the decoction. And because Yerba Buena belongs to the mint family, soaking fresh leaves in a glass of water (30 to 45 minutes) makes a good and effective mouth wash for a clean, fresh smelling breath. Yerba Buena may be used to treat: Arthritis, Head aches, Tooth aches, Mouth wash, Relief of intestinal gas, Stomach aches, Indigestion, Drink as tea for general good health.

Preparation & Use: Wash fresh Yerba Buena leaves in running water. Chop to size for dried leaves, crush) and boil 2 teaspoons of leaves in a glass of water. Boil in medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes. As analgesic, take a cupful every 3 hours. For tooth aches, pound the fresh leaves, squeeze juice out and apply on a cotton ball then bite on to the aching tooth. Yerba buena leaves may be heated over fire and placed over the forehead for headaches. Stems of Yerba Buena may be crushed and applied directly to bruises. Folkloric use include poultice preparation and the oil extracts from its stems are suggested to be a remedy for cancerous tumors. Caution should be observed in taking this herbal medicine as it can be toxic in large doses.

Pansit-pansitan - Peperomia pellucida

Pansit-pansitan clinically proven to be good for gout and arthritis. It has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity. LD50 studies show very low toxicity for both animals and humans. (de Fátima Arrigoni-Blank, 2004) Tagalog: Pansit-pansitan, Ulasimang bato, Ulasiman bato. An annual herb, shallow rooted, may reach 40 cm high, with succulent stems. Leaves are alternate, heart-shaped and turgid, as transparent and smooth as candle wax. Tiny dotlike flowers scattered along solitary and leaf-opposed stalk (spike); naked; maturing gradually from the base to the tip; turning brown when ripe. Propagation by seeds. Numerous tiny seeds drop off when mature and grow easily in clumps and groups in damp areas.

Pansit-pansitan Traditional Health Benefit. Pansit-pansitan is widely used as folkloric herbal medicine. Pansit-pansitan is known for the following health benefits: Eye inflammation, Sore throat, Diarrhea, Prostate problems, High blood pressure, Arthritis, Gout, Skin boils, Wounds, Burns, Skin inflammation, abscesses, pimples, Headache, Fever, Abdominal pains, Renal problems, Mental excitement disorder.

Scientific Studies: Peperomia pellucida (Pansit-pansitan) Herbal Medicine. Analgesic / Anti-inflammatory 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 that it exhibited 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 indicates that it is comparable to standard aspirin.

Anti-cancer Activity of Pansit-pansitan. A study have isolated compounds in P.Pellucida that has inhibitory actions against growth of some cancer cells. This shows its potential as an anti-cancer supplement. Antioxidant activity of Pansit-pansitan. In a study done on P.Pellucida extract, it has shown that it has a strong scavenging activity against free radicals suggesting that pansit-pansitan is a good natural anti-oxidant. Anti-bacterial activity of Pansit-pansitan. A study has isolated a compound called patuloside A, a xanthone glycoside from P. pellucida that is found to have broad spectrum antibacterial activity.

Anti-arthritic Activity of Pansit-pansitan. A study have shown that extracts from pansit-pansitan combined with ibuprofen treatment has significantly improved the symptoms associated with arthritis. Particularly that of knee joint rheumatism. 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 of uric acid level in blood while those that are given allopurinol drug have shown 66% reduction in uric acid level. This results show 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 suggest that pansit-pansitan extract has a dose dependent depressant activity that is beneficial for treatment of excessive mental excitement.disorder. Pansit-pansitan Usage, Dosage Where can I get Pansit-pansitan? Pepperomia Pellucida or pansit-pansitan grows wild in nooks and corners in damp lightly shaded areas. The whole plant can be harvested fresh, eaten raw as in salad ingredient or cooked with other vegetables and meat. Pansit-pansitan tea can be prepared by collecting stems and leaves mixed with boiled water (see below) or formed into poultice to be applied topically over skin wounds and inflammation.

Pansit-pansitan Tea Preparation. Wash freshly gathered Pansit-pansitan plant parts; Chop then add in 4 cups of water for every 1 cup; Let it boil for 10 to 15 minutes with the pot cover removed.; Let it steep then strain.; Drink half cup of Pansit-pansitan tea three times a day. Pansit-pansitan tea concoction can be stored in suitable glass container for later consumption. Dried leaves are more potent. Reduce the blend by half.

Pansit-pansitan Use, Warnings and Side Effects. Pepperomia Pellucida or pansit-pansitan intake and use has no reported side effects for most people. In a study done on pansit-pansitan extract overdose in mice, it was suggestive of a moderately wide margin of safety of the plant. Pregnancy and Breast feeding. There are no sufficient studies made to determine the side effects of Pepperomia Pellucida (Pansit-pansitan) taken in medicinal amounts to infants and babies. Stay on the safe side, avoid taking Pansit-pansitan in herbal medicine dosage when pregnant and while breast feeding.

Ampalaya - Momordica charantia

Ampalaya is excellent for diabetes because it enhances insulin secretion by the islets of Langerhans. Reduces glycogenesis in liver tissue; Enhances peripheral glucose utilization; Increases serum protein levels; Restores the altered histological architecture of the islets of Langerhans (Fernandes et al, 2007)

What is Ampalaya? Ampalaya (Bitter Melon) or it's scientific name, Momordica charantia has been a folkloric cure for generations but has now been proven to be an effective herbal medicine for many aliments. The Philippine Department of Health has endorsed Ampalaya Bitter Melon (Momordica Charantia) as an alternative herbal medicine for liver problems. Research about Ampalaya has shown that Ampalaya increases the production of beta cells by the pancreas, thereby improving the body’s ability to produce insulin, that controls the blood sugar for diabetics.

Bitter melon seeds. Ampalaya leaves and fruits are excellent sources of Vitamin B, iron, calcium, and phosphorus. It is also rich in beta carotene. Ampalaya is used as herbal treatment for diabetes, HIV, coughs, skin diseases, sterility in women, parasiticide, antipyretic and as purgative among others. Folkloric Health Benefits of Ampalaya. Health benefits of juice extract from ampalaya fruit: Used to treat diabetes; Used to treat stomach problems such as colitis, dysentery and intestinal parasites; Used to treat spleen and liver problems; Used to treat mild cough, heal wounds, and to treat rheumatism and gout.

Health benefits from ampalaya leaves. Powered leaves used as astringent to treat haemorrhoids and piles; Sap or juice of leaves used to treat skin problems such as eczema, acne, psoriasis, leprosy and scabies; Pounded leaves used to treat for burns and scald; Infusion of leaves used to treat fever; Infusion used to treat various stomach problems and to improve appetite; Poultice of leaves used to treat headache; Infusion of leaves used as mouthwash to treat tooth ache and other mouth problems

Health benefits from ampalaya seeds, roots and flowers. Decoction of seeds and roots used to treat urethral discharge; Roots are used as an ingredient in aphrodisiac preparations; Decoction of roots used to abort pregnancy; Infusion from bitter melon flower is used to treat asthma. How is it taken? Green fruit of ampalaya and young leaves are cooked, taken as food and is included in diet during treatment. Juice extract from bitter melon fruit or leaves are taken spoonful for adults and teaspoonful for children. 3 times a day until symptoms improve. Decoction prepared by boiling 50 grams of chopped fruits, seeds, leaves and/or roots of ampalaya to a liter of water, taken as ampalaya tea three times a day until symptoms improve.

Medical uses of ampalaya - Helath Benefits. Ampalaya for Diabetes. Clinical Studies for Ampalaya Bitter Melon demonstrated hypoglycemic properties (blood sugar lowering) or other actions of potential benefit against diabetes mellitus. The hypoglycemic chemicals found in Ampalaya Bitter Melon include a mixture of steroidal saponins known as charantins, insulin-like peptides, and alkaloids. The hypoglycemic effect is more pronounced in the fruit of bitter melon where these chemicals are in greater abundance. The fruit has also shown the ability to enhance cells’ uptake of glucose, to promote insulin release, and potentiate the effect of insulin. In other in vivo studies, bitter melon fruit and/or seed has been shown to reduce total cholesterol and triglycerides in both the presence and absence of dietary cholesterol. In one study, elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in diabetic rats were returned to normal after 10 weeks of treatment.

Ampalaya for Hemorrhoids. Powdered leaves and root decoction of Ampalaya are applied to hemorrhoids as astringent. Ampalaya for Stomach Problems. Ampalaya leaf juice is used to expel intestinal parasites, treat dysentery, diarrhea, and chronic colitis. Grounded seeds may also be used. Taken in a spoonfull 3x a day until ailment subsides. Ampalaya for Cough. Ampalaya leaf juice is used for mild coughs for children. Administered in a teaspoon 3x a day. Ampalaya for Burns, Scalds and Wounds. Pounded Ampalaya seeds or leaf are used to treat burns, scalds and wounds. Ampalaya as Anti-Cancer, Two compounds extracted from ampalaya bitter melon, α-eleostearic acid (from ampalaya seeds) and dihydroxy-α-eleostearic acid (from the ampalayafruit) have been found to induce apoptosis of leukemia cells in vitro. Diets containing 0.01% ampalaya bitter melon oil (0.006% as α-eleostearic acid) were found to prevent azoxymethane-induced colon carcinogenesis in rats. Other acclaimed uses are for the treatment of HIV, treatment of fever and headaches, treatment of rheumatism and gout, disease of the spleen and liver.

Amplaya Side Effects. In large dozes, pure Ampalaya juice can be a purgative and may cause pregnancy abortion. Ampalaya Preparation and Availability. Amplaya or Bitter Melon for Cooking. Ampalaya fruits and leaves are usually available in Asian or Chinese markets. They can be bought fresh by the kilo, per piece or by bundles. Ampalaya are cooked mixed with meat. To lessen the bitterness of the ampalay, sliced ampalaya are washed or even boiled in water with salt.

Ampalaya preparation. Powdered Ampalaya or Bitter Melon. Powdered leaves and root decoction of Ampalaya are applied to hemorrhoids as astringent. Wash the bitter melon eaves and the with fresh water. Pound to powder. You can use carrier oils to mix with the powder for application. Ampalaya or Bitter Melon Juice.  Ampalaya Bitter melon leaves and fruit (without the seeds) are pounded and juiced to extract concentrated juice. Ampalaya bitter melon juice is then added to other plesant tasting juice for drinking Ampalaya or Bitter Melon Capsules, Bitter melon, as its name implies, is quite bitter, which is why many often prefer to take capsules and tablets. Ready-made bitter melon extracts are available in capsules and tablets in many Asian markets, herb shops, and in the supplement department of health food stores.

Sambong - Blumea balsamifera

Sambong is a very efficient dissolver of kidney stones. A good diuretic and anti-edema; can be used as an anti- hypertensive. Encouraging results from double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized studies. Promoted by the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) and DOH. Registered with the BFAD as a medicine.

What is Sambong? Also knows as: Blumea balsamifera L. DC, Alibum,Lakad-bulan, Alimon, Lalakdan. Sambong (Tag.), Dalapot, Sob-sob, Gabuen. Subusub, Blumea camphor (Engl.), Kambibon, Ngai camphor (Engl.).

Sambong is used as herbal medicine and is a shrub that grows wild in the tropical climate countries such as Philippines, India, Africa and found even in eastern Himalayas. Sambong is widely used in the Philippines as herbal medicine. Sambong leaves are known for its ngai or Blumea camphor that is used as herbal medicine to treat kidney stones, wounds and cuts, rheumatism, anti-diarrhea, anti spasms, colds and coughs and hypertension. The Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) has develop the technology for a sambong herbal medicine tablet.

Sambong is an aromatic shrub, that grows from 1 to 4 meters in height. It is considered as a weed in some countries and is difficult to eradicate. Sambong has yellow flowering heads that is 6 mm long. Sambong leaves are green obloid that spreads in a pyramidial pattern. Sambong bears fruits that are ribbed and hairy on top. Sambong fruit has 1 seed.

Sambong, traditional herbal medicine - Health Benefits. Sambong roots and leaves are used as herbal treatment for fevers, sambong leaves and roots are pounded then dissolved in cold water. Applied with a soft cloth over the nape, forehead, underarms and other body parts to bring down the body temperature. Sambong roots and leaves are also used as herbal medicine treatment for rheumatism. Sambong roots and leaves are pounded and applied as poultice on the affected body part. Sambong roots and leaves may also be boiled and are applied as warm compress onto affected area. Sambong is also used to treat headache, sambong leaves are pounded and applied as a poultice over the forehead. Sambong tea are also used as herbal medicine for colds and coughs. Sambong tea are also used for herbal treatment of diarrhea and stomach spasms. Sambong juice are also used for treatment of cuts and wounds.

Sambong, herbal medicine preparation. Sambong tea preparation: gather fresh sambong leaves, cut in small pieces; wash with fresh water; boil 50 grams of sambong leaves to a liter of water; let it seep for 10 minutes; remove from heat; drink while warm 4 glasses a day for best results. Sambong poultice. gather fresh leaves and roots; wash with fresh clean water; pound in a mortar; grounded leaves may be applied or a juice extract may be used

Sambong, Scientific Studies - Medical Uses. Sambong as diuretic for hypertension and fluid retention. Sambong herbal tea is used as a diuretic for fluid retention and hypertension conditions. Sambong herbal tea incites the body to urinate thereby removing excess body fluids and sodium. Clinical studies have shown that high levels of sodium in the blood is a major cause of hypertension. Sambong delay or averts renal failure. The Philippine National Kidney and Transplant Institute recommends taking sambong herbal medicine for patients with renal problems. Favorable results were noted that sambong may help to delay or avert dialysis or even kidney transplant.

Sambong for the Dissolution of Kidney Stones. The Philippine Department of Health (DOH) has been promoting Sambong herbal tea and tablets as a diuretic and for the dissolution of kidney stones. Sambong has been recently registered in the Bureau of Foods and Drugs as medicine. Sambong as Anticancer: Sambong contains methanolic extract that has been found to have therapeutic activity against hepatocellular carcinoma cells. A study of sambong (balsamifera) extract inhibits the activity in rat and human hepatocellular carcinoma cells without cytotoxicity. This study suggest a possible therapeutic effect of sambong extracts (balsamifera) in the treatment of hepatoma cancer patients.

Sambong as Antibacterial and Antifungi: A Phytochemical study indicates that sambong leaves contains the chemicals icthyothereol acetate, cyptomeridiol, lutein and ?-carotene that has been found to have positive activity against microbes such as A niger, T mentagrophytes and C albicans. Results also showed activity against P aeruginosa, S aureus, B subtilis and E coli.

Sambong Side Effects, cautions and warnings Sambong use is generally considered safe. Special Precautions & Warnings: Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of sambong during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Sambong can cause allergic reaction for people sensitive to ragweed plants and its relatives. Side effects may include itching and skin irritation.

Lagundi - Vitex negundo

Lagundi is excellent for asthma, cough, upper and lower respiratory tract infections.  Being Considered replacement of the synthetic drug dextrometorphan, an anti-tussive in the public system. Being promoted by the Dept of Health. Registered under BFAD as medicine. There are 7 brands of Lagundi in the market today.

What is Lagundi? Also knows as: Scientific Name : Vitex Negundo, Dabtan (If.) Dangla (Ilk.) Kamalan (Tag.) Lagundi (Ibn., Tag., Bik., P. Bis.) Li?gei (Bon.) Limo-limo (Ilk.) Sagarai (Bag.) Turagay (Bis.) Five-leaved chaste tree (Engl.) Huang Ching (Chin.) Agno-casto (Spanish) Lagundi (scientific name: Vitex negundo) is a large native shrub that grows in the Philippines and has been traditionally used as herbal medicine. The Philippine Department of Health has conducted research and study for Lagundi and has suggested that the lagundi plant has a number verifiable therapeutic value.

Lagundi is an erect, branched tree or shrub, that grows to as much as 5 m high. Lagundi has a single thick, woody stem like a trunk and is usually seen in swamps of the Philippines. Lagundi leaves appear palmately, in the form of five pointed leaves which splay out like the fingers of a hand. Lagundi leaves are 5-foliate, rarely with 3 leaflets only. Lagundi leaves are 4-10 cm long, slightly hairy beneath. The lagundi flowers are blue to lavender, 6-7 mm long bearing fruit globose of about 4mm in diameter that turns black when ripe.

Lagundi, herbal medicine - Health Benefits. Lagundi has been traditionally used as herbal medicine by Philippine folks. The efficacy of Lagundi has also been verified by the Philippine Department of Health and other Philippine based scientists which concentrated on its use to ease respiratory complaints. Lagundi is generally used for the treatment of coughs, asthma symptoms, and other respiratory problems. Lagundi is also known for its analgesic effect that helps alleviate pain and discomfort. Other traditional benefits that are derived from the use of Lagundi are as follows: Relief of asthma & pharyngitis; Recommended relief of rheumatism, dyspepsia, boils, diarrhea; Treatment of cough, colds, fever and flu and other bronchopulmonary disorders ;Alleviate symptoms of Chicken Pox; Removal of worms, and boils

Lagundi Herbal Medicine Preparation. Lagundi leaves, root, flowers, and seeds are believed to have medicinal value. Lagundi concoction is prepared by boiling, steeping, and then straining various parts such as lagundi leaves, roots, flowers and seeds, the following steps: wash fresh or dried Lagundi leaves; chop then add in 4 cups of water for every 1 cup of lagundi parts; let it boil for 10 to 15 minutes; Let it steep then strain the various parts; Drink half cup of Lagundi three times a day; Lagundi concoction can be stored in suitable glass container for later consumption.

Lagundi Availability. Commercially, lagundi can be purchased in the form of syrup or capsules to make it easier to handle. It is also blended in with cough medicines and other herbal remedies. Lagundi syrup is now commonly formulated as cough medicine which can also be bought in leading drugstores and supermarkets. For outside of the Philippines, an alternative herbal capsule is Ricola Cough Drops, a naturally extracted cough and sore throat tablet with high and favorable review.

Warning and Side Effects of lagundi. Lagundi use is widely acceptable as safe for use for children and adults and no adverse reaction has been reported. However, moderate use is recommended for pregnant women, and treatment should not exceed one week. If symptoms persist and irritation occurs, stop the use and consult your doctor.