Asia Herbs

DAUN KESUM

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Mon, 26 May 2025 18:19:00 +0800

Kesum leaves or its scientific name is polygonum minus are no stranger and are an herbal plant used in various dishes and cuisines.

Kesum leaves are classified as wild plants and are easily found in Asian countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam. There are two types of kesum leaves that are easily found, the upright and the creeping ones. The creeping type has smaller, softer leaves and is often used as a side dish. Meanwhile, the upright type of kesum leaves has wide and rough leaves.

The aroma of these leaves is fragrant and makes dishes, especially those with broth, taste more delicious and appetizing. Therefore, it is one of the herbs that has very unique therapeutic values.

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In fact, since the time of our ancestors, they have been using kesum leaves to gain various nutrients and benefits. Not only can they complement cooking, but they can also be used as ingredients for daily beauty routines. Therefore, making them one of the versatile herbal leaves that can prevent and delay aging.

It is believed to be rich in beta carotene, vitamins A & C as well as minerals such as potassium, calcium and phosphorus. Apart from its aroma that can stimulate the appetite, this herb can reduce the smell and fishiness of fish.

Kesum leaves contain quite high nutrients, especially carotene and vitamin C. In 100 g, the edible part of the leaves, kesum leaves contain: water 73.2 g, protein 2.8 g, fat 0.7 g, carbohydrates 18.4 g, fiber 2.8 g, calcium 232 mg, phosphorus 19 mg, iron 3.2 mg, sodium 19 mg, potassium 308 mg, carotene 7433 mg, vitamin A 1239 mg, vitamin B10.15 mg, vitamin B2 0.2 mg, niacin 2.8 mg, vitamin C 125 mg.

Kesum leaves, which have a distinctive smell, can produce starch oil that contains high aliphatic aldehydes of up to 60 percent chemicals, and the main chemical elements are decanal and dodecanal.

The oil from the leaves is also believed to have high potential to repair damaged body cells, especially the leaves which are suitable for food, the flavor and perfume industry.

Benefits:

From the aspect of the Malay medical world, this hot herb is believed to have its own benefits. Among the benefits of this kesum leaf are:

Strengthens eyesight
Overcomes bloating or indigestion
Fragrants the body
Overcomes vaginal discharge
Overcomes dandruff
Good for postpartum women

DAUN LIMAU @ Kaffir Lime Leaves

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Mon, 26 May 2025 17:59:00 +0800

If you are a fan of tomyam cooking, of course, kaffir lime leaves are one of the basic ingredients that must be present in cooking. However, sometimes, the dish does not taste good when the taste is bitter in tomyam cooking.

Did you know that one of the reasons why "tom yam" sauce tastes bitter is because of the leaves. Apparently, kaffir lime leaves have two types according to their shape.

The kaffir lime leaves, which are wide at the top and slightly smaller at the base, still smell fragrant and are slightly bitter, even though the flesh in the middle of the leaf has been removed.

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The 8-shaped kaffir lime leaves are tastier and more fragrant, with no bitter taste even though the middle stem of the leaves is not removed.

To avoid bitter tasting dishes due to choosing the wrong lime leaves, you can choose leaves that are shaped like a figure eight and avoid wide leaves.

Tips for choosing kaffir lime leaves for cooking:-

1. Remove the central vein of the leaf

In addition to choosing the shape of the lime leaf, you are also encouraged to remove the central vein of the leaf before putting it in cooking. These veins of the leaf not only interfere with the taste of the dish, but they also give it a rather bitter taste.

2. Add the kaffir lime leaves at the end of cooking

For those of you who like the aroma of kaffir lime leaves, you can add the kaffir lime leaves at the last minute of your cooking. This is also a tip to avoid the leaves being cooked for a long time and the bitter taste coming out of the kaffir lime leaves.

3. Slice into small pieces

You can try cutting them into fairly thin and small sizes. Make sure to remove the central vein first, then add them in cooking, you will definitely be able to eat them without any discomfort.

KNOWING THE BENEFITS OF PINE NEEDLE TREE

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Mon, 26 May 2025 17:34:00 +0800

A pine is any conifer tree or shrub in the genus Pinus of the family Pinaceae. Pinus is the sole genus in the subfamily Pinoideae. World Flora Online accepts 187 species names of pines as current, with additional synonyms, making it the largest family among the conifers.

Did you know there are too many benefits from a pine needle tree? Starting from the roots, stems, leaves and even fruits, there are full benefit and nutrients in them. The existence of this pine tree can support the local ecosystem, which is this tree can provide shelter and food for local wildlife, and it is very important to ensure a balanced and controlled ecosystem.

Its good to know that..... Bioeffective A is a health product extracted from pine trees that can survive in any weather, and the antibacterial and antiviral properties found in pine trees help protect the healing process of infections.

In addition, it can also prevent stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal healing and is used as a detoxifying agent, which helps remove toxins from the blood and liver.

Bioeffective A

In the 1930s, Russian scientists saw that pine trees were evergreen plants that were always fresh even in the coldest weather. Through research on the tree, they found a liquid in pine conifer needles that allowed a person's body to always be healthy.

When the scientists extracted the `living elements' found in pine conifer needles and studied them, the results were the same as the `living elements' found in the human body. Not only were they easily absorbed, but they could also be used by humans and were safe to eat.

The health threats that are increasingly hitting the world today are a challenge for all medical experts to alleviate viral and bacterial infections and to fight these infectious diseases, most doctors use antibiotics and anti-infectives to control them. However, it is not possible to last forever because the infection will definitely come and with the birth of Bioeffective A, it has the potential to revolutionize the way to control and fight diseases faster, easier and safer.

What’s so good about pine needle tea?

Pine needle tea has a pleasant taste and smell (always a good start).
It is rich in vitamin C (5 times the concentration of vitamin C found in lemons) and can bring relief to conditions such as heart disease, varicose veins, skin complaints and fatigue.
Vitamin C is also an immune system booster which means that pine needle tea can help to fight illness and infections.
Pine needle tea also contains high levels of Vitamin A, which is good for your eyesight, improves hair and skin regeneration and improves red blood cell production.
It can be used as an expectorant for coughs and to help relieve chest congestion; it is also good for sore throats.
It brings you clarity and mental clearness.
It can help with depression, obesity, allergies and high blood pressure.
Pine needles contain antioxidants. These reduce free radicals, which are harmful to humans and can cause disease.

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About

(From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)

Scientific name: Pinus

Family: Pinaceae

Subfamily: Pinoideae

Class: Pinopsida

Division: Pinophyta

Genus: Pinus; L.

LEMONGRASS

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0800

The name Lemongrass gives away the fundamentals of the herb. It’s a grassy plant with a lemony flavor, but it tastes milder and sweeter. Lemongrass, also called fever grass, is a perennial plant with thin, long leaves that is indigenous to many Asian countries. This herb is used in various Asian cuisines as a flavoring agent due to its potent flavor. This herb is accessible from just about any ethnic shop, health food store, online marketplace, or even within the aisle of many supermarkets. It contains antibacterial, curative, and antioxidant properties that make lemongrass a great alternative for a broad spectral range of common ailments.

Nutritionally, lemongrass is a good source of vitamins A and C, folate, folic acid, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, potassium, phosphorus, calcium and manganese. It also has minute traces of B vitamins.

Along with its culinary uses, lemongrass is useful in alternative or complementary remedies for a wide range of ailments.

1) Its Anti-septic

Some research suggests that the antiseptic properties of lemongrass to be more powerful than penicillin and streptomycin when used as a treatment for staph infections. Kathi Keville of the American Herb Association says that if used as a compress or a wash, that lemon grass combats various kinds of skin infections and infected sores due to these antiseptic properties.

2) Has Plenty of Antioxidants

Unstable free radicals interact together with the DNA and proteins of the cells in your system. These interactions can lead to chronic diseases like Alzheimers and cancer. The antioxidants in lemongrass have been shown to stop these reactions.

3) Fights off Infections

While clinical trials are essential to demonstrate these advantages conclusively, the Brazilian Journal of Infectious Diseases published an article showing how lemongrass can help to stop the growth of certain infections. The study also shows that lemongrass may treat fungal infections, but says that more clinical trials are necessary.

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4) Anti-inflammatory

Research conducted by the Indian Institute of Toxicology found lemon grass extracts to be a successful remedy for inflammation. The powerful anti-oxidants in lemon grass reduced oxidative stress in mitochondrial membranes, investigators in the study claim.

5) It is an Oil Combatant

Lemon grass is commonly used within the cosmetics industry. It is found mainly in deodorants, soaps, and colognes not only for the pleasant and fresh aroma but also for its practical advantages. Mixing in 10-20 drops of the oil into a facial wash or conditioner, for example, would help with acne or oily hair as it helps to cut down on the production of oils. Be aware that some people might experience some skin irritation with this use.

6) Helps Heart Problems

Lemongrass can help to dilate and relax the walls of the body’s blood vessels.This may decrease the risk of hypertension as well as other related cardiovascular diseases.

7) Lowers Cholesterol

Based on a university study, lemongrass tea may possess a cholesterol-lowering effect. Consult with your physician prior to your use of lemongrass to deal with high cholesterol to see if it would work for your particular needs.

8) Deals With Stress

The volatile oils of lemongrass also demonstrate significant anti-stress action by regulating particular neuroreceptors when applied to mental performance. These results were found in lab animals and have not been yet been tested for people. As such, consult a physician before using lemongrass extracts to deal with stress.

9) Fights Cancer

A study published in PubMed states that lemongrass extracts can cause apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in certain cancer cell lines. Nevertheless, these gains haven’t been analyzed in patients, and much more research is necessary before lemongrass extracts may be used for cancer treatment, says the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

Possible Side Effects of Lemongrass

Lemongrass isn’t connected with any bothersome or significant side effects when taken internally in recommended dosages. Cases are reported, however, by which individuals have developed skin rashes after drinking lemongrass tea. Those with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to lemongrass should be sure to avoid it. Lemongrass, along with other essential oils could cause allergic contact skin responses in certain individuals.

Lemongrass might lower blood glucose levels. Blood sugar levels might have to become monitored with a healthcare provider, and medication adjustments might be crucial if this happens. Lemongrass could cause minor increases in liver function tests, as well. Lemongrass is not to be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Because it tends to raise body heat, most people should avoid drinking lemongrass tea in surplus. Make sure that you consult a physician before you begin taking this herb if you’re experiencing any ailment. Promptly cease taking it in the event that you feel any side effect after using this herb.

Lemongrass is quite popular and should be found in many stores which carry natural health products. It can be found in tea, extract oil, cut/sifted, live plant, seeds, and stalk form.

CHIA SEEDS

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 18:19:00 +0800

Chia seeds have become one of the most popular superfoods in the health community. They are easy to digest when prepared properly, and are a very versatile ingredient that easily adds to recipes.

Chia seed is obtained most commonly from Salvia hispanica of the Lamiaceae family. Other plants referred to as "chia" include "golden chia" (Salvia columbariae) and the flowering herbaceous perennial Salvia polystachya, which is rarely cultivated and the seeds are not used. The seeds of Salvia columbariae are used medicinally and for food.

Originally grown in Mexico, the seeds were highly valued for their medicinal properties and nutritional value. In fact, they were even used as currency!

The chia seed is nutrient dense and packs a punch of energy boosting power. Aztec warriors ate chia seeds to give them high energy and endurance. They said just one spoonful of chia could sustain them for 24 hours. Chia means "strength" in the Mayan language, and they were known as "runners food" because runners and warriors would use them as fuel while running long distances or during battle.

Not only that, but recent research has found that the chia seed benefits are even greater than we realized. Chia seed benefits include promoting healthy skin, reducing signs of aging, supporting the heart and digestive system, building stronger bones and muscles and more. Now they have even been linked to healing diabetes. Continue reading for possible side effects, preparation instructions and a complete list of benefits and nutrients.

Salvia hispanica, or the chia plant, is a species in the mint family that is native to Central America. The seeds of this herb are known as “chia seeds” and they have gained quite a bit of popularity in recent years.

Not only are they gluten/grain free naturally, but a single serving is reported to have:

as much calcium as a glass of milk

more Omega-3s than a serving of walnuts

as many antioxidants as blueberries.

Did you know that consuming chia seed can reduce back pain? Are you aware that chia seeds can help lower your cholesterol levels?

Poor health is the result of lifestyle and unhealthy food. Chia seed is a single material that can treat various diseases. Here are the benefits of chia seeds for health that you should know.

Being rich in so many key nutrients, research has uncovered that regularly eating chia seed can improve your health in numerous ways. Some of the top chia seed benefits are:

1. Anti Inflammation

One of the benefits of chia seed is quite important is as an anti-inflammatory. The word 'chia' comes from the word 'chian', which means oily. Chia seed is oily seeds that are equipped with essential fatty acids omega-3. As one of the richest vegetable source of omega-3 and alpha-linolenic acid, chia seed treating various health disorders. Chia seed against free radicals, reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol. Include chia seeds in your diet and say goodbye to your body aches.

2. Mineral

Chia seed is a storehouse of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and manganese. All minerals are very important for the functioning of the body's right and fight high blood pressure. They also provide enough energy for the body's metabolic processes. Chia seeds are a delicious secret to obtain immunity.

3. Fiber Rich

Dietary fiber helps reduce cholesterol, inflammation and constipation. Chia seeds are a source of dietary fiber which is very good. Two tablespoons of chia seed provides more than a third of the required daily intake of fiber. The regular intake will end your problems while on the toilet.

4. Nature of Antioxidants

Maybe you already know the benefits of chia seed this one. Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants that help protect the body from pigmentation, carcinogenic cells and slow the onset of aging. So just by chewing chia seed and say goodbye to expensive anti-wrinkle cream you.

5. Controlling Blood Sugar Levels

The benefits of chia seed Equally important is to control blood sugar levels. Increased blood sugar levels is one of many major health problems today. Chia seed is one of the best foods to control blood sugar levels. Chia seeds help reduce insulin resistance in the body. They are something that you must have if you want to cure your diabetes.

6. Effects glut

Satiety center has a special place in the brain, which tells whether your stomach is full or not. Center satiety control hunger and satiety, and can help regulate appetite. The combination of fiber, protein and other nutrients, are all responsible for satiating effects of chia seed. Consuming chia seed is a healthy way to snack.

7. Gluten-Free

Chia seeds do not contain gluten, which can cause a number of diseases, including celiac, which damage the lining of the intestine. Chia seed is a healthy alternative to replace foods rich in gluten.

8. Source of Protein Very Good

Protein is one of the most important nutrients needed each person. Chia seed contains not only the amount of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) is the highest among the other plants, but they are also the richest source of vegetable protein. These are foods that should be owned by vegetarians. Chia seed is a perfect substitute for eggs and meat in your diet.

9. Easy To digested

One of the benefits of chia seed for the health of the most effective is that they are easily digestible, unlike other grains are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and minerals. So you do not need to grind chia seeds advance to obtain nutrients.

10. Dyslipidemia

Chia seed contains the amount of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids are high, both of which help reduce cholesterol . Chia seed increases good cholesterol (HDL) and reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) in the body. Include always chia seeds in your diet to maintain a healthy heart.

Thus article 10 benefits of chia seeds for health, may further increase your health insights.

Dietitian and Health Nut chooses chia seeds as a top pick because of their overall nutrition package including: healthy fats, fiber, and minerals. In fact, just one tablespoon of chia seeds provides nearly 20 percent of your daily fiber goals. Plus, chia seeds are rich in essential fatty acids, which are a type of fat that the body needs to function that must come from food. Try stirring in a tablespoon of chia seeds into tea, juice or milk for a nutrient boost! Or thanks to their water absorbing properties, chia seeds are great for making pudding. Chia seeds make an incredibly healthy—and often unnoticeable—addition to many foods.

Here are some great ways to enjoy chia seeds:

They can be eaten raw. (They have a nice "nutty" flavor.)

They can be soaked in fruit juice (in Mexico, they call this "chia fresca").

They're perfect in porridges and puddings.

They make an ideal addition to baked goods including breads, cakes and biscuits.

How Many Chia Seeds Should You Eat? Expertise recommend two daily doses of about 20 g each (1.5 ounces total).

BELALAI GAJAH @ Elephant Trunk @ Sabah Snake Grass

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Sat, 15 Apr 2017 08:59:00 +0800

This herbs famous in Malaysia. However the information is useful wherever you are located. It is about a herb for cancer, therefore aptly titled “herbal cancer treatment”. Sabah Snake Grass is an herb grown usually in tropical weather countries, like Malaysia and Thailand. This natural herb that is part of acanthaceae family has a scientific name Clinacanthus nuthans. It is a non-toxic edible plant. Traditionally it has been used in south east asia to treat a variety of sickness. In thailand, it is medically proven for treatment of skin rashes, and herpes, and is also used to cure snake bites. Sabah Snake Grass is known as Dandang Gendis in Indonesia and is used locally to treat patients with kidney failure. In Malaysia, it is known as Belalai Gajah or Sabah Snake Grass, and is famous for having good effects on cancer patients, although it is also used to reduce symptoms of dialysis patients.

Elephant Trunk Leaf / Sabah Snake Grass scientific name Clinacanthus Nutans (Burm.f.) Lindau, recently talked to treat a variety of cancers such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, uterine cancer, high blood pressure, uric acid high, diabetes, dialysis patients, kidney and more.Its been viral on media social about this herbs. It is about this local herb that has cured many cancer patients. But please take notes, this herbs not likely that one method or a single herb can cure everyone of cancer. Each individual is different and the condition of the disease is also different. In this article, I merely like to share the information that some cancer patients have been successful in curing their sicknesses by using this herb. Grass Snake consumption has soared since the publication in Kwong Wah Yit Poh Press on Mr. Liu Hui Lian from Taiping about her incredible story after recovering from cancer after the terminal level using Grass Snake. Many others with chronic diseases such as cancer, heart and kidney problems were cured after taking Snake Grass. Many more users have to fully benefit from the use of the Grass Snake and that has helped cure their suffering. Who knows, someone reading this article may also benefit from this piece of information.

RESEARCH OF BELALAI GAJAH

Scientific Evidence？

Research shows that Clinicanthus Nutans is a kind of edible plant, and it contains extremely high levels of Flavonoids. Clinicanthus Nutans also contains a multitude of vitamins, minerals and amino acids that the body requires. Flavonoids is a substance that has anti-inflammatory effects and anti-oxidative effects. Rutin and Quercetin are the most important type of Flavonoids. Rutin is routinely used for the treatment of gum inflamation and shows good effects. On the other hand, Quercetin can inhibit the negative effects of carcinogens. Soy bean is known to have large abouts of Flavonoids and thus soy bean milk is good for health.

And also according to a study conducted by the Research Institute of Vegetable in Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences and College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, the leaves of the elephant's trunk SSG has nutritional value as follows:

• It has a high content of flavonoids, which have antioxidant capabilities in preventing and prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease;

• Contains many important minerals, especially vitamins, more than 45% crude protein and 17 amino acids that give the medics;

• Rich in vitamin C, protein, fiber and minerals that have the effect against free radicals which help prevent cancer;

• Contains mineral phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and other high and some trace elements such as iron;

Elephant Trunk leaves (known as Snake Grass [ "SG"] = Clinacanthus mutans scientific name) is a herb that has been used traditionally to treat insect bites and venomous or poisonous animals and help to:

• ~ reduce suffering from various types of cancers such as lung, breast, prostate, uterus and leukemia;

• ~ reduce uric acid, cholesterol and diabetes;

• ~ reduce blood pressure and improve blood flow;

• ~ improve skin problems such as eczema, shingles and psoriasis;

• ~ reduce the discomfort of dialysis and kidney disease;

• ~ detoxify, heal bruises and swelling.

Some people use this leaves as "ulam-ulaman",
which is can be eaten in raw.

Beluntas (Pluchea indica L / Baccharis indica L)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 05:47:00 +0800

Beluntas (Pluchea indica L / Baccharis indica L) is a plant commonly grown in a college or serve as a fence. The name of this plant is probably not so familiar. However, these plants do not actually form seasing name. If we look carefully, almost certainly the people would know him as the plants are often found in the yard, because it is often used as a hedge plant.

Beluntas leaves according to research results have antibacterial and antioxidant functions as well as potential for development as a food preservative and medicine.Plants growing in the family Asteraceae small shrub, grows upright and can grow as high as 2 meters with many branches. Beluntas or who have other names Phatpa or Marsh Fleabane has a short petiole, rounded edges taper, with a serrated edge. Some areas in Indonesia beluntas name with a different name like baluntas (Madura), Luntas (Central Java), and Lamutasa (Napier).

Beluntas an upright shrubs, woody, much branched, with a height can reach two meters. Single leaf, rounded egg shape, pointed tip, downy, yellowish-green young leaves and old after a long pale green leaves and from 3.8 to 6.4 cm. Grows wild in the soil with high humidity; in several places in West Java, this plant is used as a hedge and the boundary between land on the estate.

Chemical properties

Beluntas have leaves that contain alkaloids, tannins, sodium, essential oils, calcium, flafonoida, magnesium and phosphorus. At the root there flavonoid and tannin.

Pharmacological effects

According to the research results can be used beluntas leaves fresh or dried and has a distinctive odor, taste bitter, helping improve appetite, antifertilitas and helps facilitate digestion.

Some of the benefits of natural herbs Beluntas to health problems among others.

Part of Plant Used & Utilization:

All parts of plants, either fresh or dried, can be used to treat some diseases as follows.

1. Digestive Disorders in Children

Wash 3-5 leaves beluntas, knead, mix with porridge or rice strain teams, stir, and eat. Perform each meal.

Alternatively, squeeze 10 leaves, add 1 tablespoon of honey, and mix well. Combine this mixture on the team or porridge rice strain to be given with each meal.

2. Rheumatic pain

Take 15 grams of root Beluntas, wash and boil with water and drinking water was boiled roots

3. Eliminates body odor

Leaves and flowers beluntas contain alkali can be used as an antiseptic.

How to use leaf beluntas to eliminate body odor is eaten raw or steamed first. Rinse leaves beluntas 10-15 and then eat as a salad. Perform routine 3 times a day. In addition to eliminating body odor Beluntas leaves also can eliminate bad breath. For those who do not like, can by drinking boiled water leaves every morning and evening. Beluntas also useful lower body temperature, so much sweat that comes out and the body temperature to drop.

4. Lowering Heat

Brewed beluntas like brewing tea leaves, then drink until normal body temperature.

Note:

Pregnant Women are prohibited from consuming this plant and not good for women because it can reduce woman's fertility.

PEGAGA or Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Sat, 1 Nov 2014 09:31:00 +0800

Pegaga Aquatic

Scientific name : Centella asiatica (L.)
Urban.
Common name : Asiatic Pennywort, Gotu
Kola
Local name : Pegaga

Family : Umbelliferae

Pegaga Nyonya

Centella asiatica, also known as gotu kola, is an annual herb native to India, Australia and Asia. The leaves and stems of the gotu kola plant are used as medicine. Its leaves are eaten as a vegetable and it is also an important herb in the traditional medicine systems of those places. Research has revealed support for several of Centella asiatica's purported health benefits.

There are 3 types of pegaga:
1. Pennywort Centella asiatica,
2. Merremia emarginata
3. Hydrocotyle spp.

Pegaga Village

Asian species known to be able to cure various types of diseases. Some cultivars are popular in this country is pennywort Mistress, pennywort village and pennywort Salad.

In Malaysia, pennywort is very popular among the country's three main races, namely Malays, Chinese and Indians. For the Malays, he's eaten fresh as a salad, the Chinese used as a beverage cooler body, while the Indians, used as a tonic brainpower. In pennywort Madagascar in dry, milled and used to treat leprosy, asthma, Syphilis, bronchitis and skin lesions. Currently pennywort widely used as ingredients in the preparation of drugs and cosmetics in the European countries, the USA and Japan.

Scientists are able to determine chemical composition of Centella asiatica or gotukola contains various alkaloids, triterpenes, sterols, tannins, and glycosides. Recently three new compounds centellin, asiaticin, and centellicin were isolated from this herb. Consult your doctor for guidance in the safe and appropriate use of Centella asiatica.

Common Name

English:

Asiatic pennywort, Indian pennywort, Indian navelwort, gotu kola (Sinhalese origin)

Hindi:

ब॒हमामानडुकी, bemgsag, brahma manduki, brahmanduki, brahmi (North India, West India), gotu kola,mandukparni, Thankuni,

Malay/Indonesia:

daun kaki kuda (Indonesia), gagan-gagan (Java), kerok batok (Java), antanan (West Java), pegaga, pegagan, rendeng

Nepalese:

braahamii (brahami), brahambuti, ghodtaapre (ghodtapre), ghorataap (ghortap), kholca ghayn

Filipino:

takip-kohol, takip-suso(tagalog),

Punjabi:

brahmibuti

Sanskrit:

brahamamanduki, brahma manduki, brahmi, divya, jalneem, mandukaparni, mandukparni, nandukparni, thankuni

Small-sized leaves usually hug the ground and have a short petiole stem; however, large leaves can have a petiole up to 20cm long. When plants are grown in the shade, they tend to have large leaves and very long petioles. This petiole stem can have a pink/purple tinge. Pink flowers 5mm across, usually set 2 to 4, side by side, as an umbel, developing from the stem nodes. Flowers are so small (and often hidden underneath leaves) that, generally, the flower is not noticed at all. It is only under a microscope that the flower’s beauty is seen. Although gotu kola belongs to the umbel family of plants, now classified as Apiaceae, there is very little resemblance to other umbel plants: like parsley, dill, fennel and coriander. Seeds, of gotu kola, form in flat, oval capsules, usually containing two tiny, brown, kidneyshaped seeds.

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) has been used to treat many conditions for thousands of years in India, China, and Indonesia. It was used to heal wounds, improve mental clarity, and treat skin conditions such as leprosy and psoriasis.

Some people use it to treat respiratory infections such as colds, and in the past it was used for that in China. It has been called "the fountain of life" because legend has it that an ancient Chinese herbalist lived for more than 200 years as a result of taking gotu kola.

Pegaga (Centella asiatica Linn.) is widely consumed as herb in different parts of the world. Pegaga is generally used in health food and cosmetic products. In Malaysia, it is commonly consumed as vegetable or ‘ulam’ amongst the Malays and as a cooling drink by the Chinese. The interest on herbal beverages such as pegaga drink is because of its pharmacological activity. The pharmacological activity is attributed to its phytochemical constituents such as asiaticoside and antioxidant property. Currently, several pegaga based herbal products have been developed and marketed by Small and Medium Industries (SMI). They are marketed as herbal drink, cosmetic products and herbal preparation in the form of capsule, tablet and powdered products. Pegaga have also been developed into herbal confectionary.

Throughout history, gotu kola has been used for a wide range of health problems, which have included:

Venous insufficiency and varicose veins
When blood vessels lose their elasticity, blood pools in the legs and fluid leaks out of the blood vessels. That causes the legs to swell (venous insufficiency). Several small studies suggest gotu kola may help reduce swelling and improve blood flow. In a study of 94 people with venous insufficiency, those who took gotu kola saw their symptoms improve compared to those who took placebo. In another study of people with varicose veins, ultrasound tests showed that people who took gotu kola has less leakage of fluid.

One study also found that people who took gotu kola before flying had less ankle and leg swelling than those who didn't take it.

Wound healing and skin lesions
Gotu kola has chemicals called triterpenoids. In animal and lab studies, these compounds seem to help heal wounds. For example, some studies suggest that triterpenoids strengthen the skin, boost antioxidants in wounds, and increase blood supply to the area. Based on these findings, gotu kola has been applied to the skin, or used topically, for minor burns, psoriasis, preventing scars after surgery, and preventing or reducing stretch marks.
You can find gotu kola in many creams for wound healing. Ask your health care provider if one is right for you.

Anxiety
These same chemicals -- triterpenoids -- seem to decrease anxiety and increase mental function in mice. One human study found that people who took gotu kola were less likely to be startled by a new noise than those who took placebo. Since the "startle noise" response can be a way to tell if someone is anxious, researchers think that gotu kola might help reduce anxiety symptoms. But the dose used in this study was very high, so it's impossible to say how gotu kola might be used to treat anxiety.

Scleroderma
A single study of 13 women with scleroderma found that gotu kola decreased joint pain and skin hardening, and improved finger movement.

Insomnia
Gotu kola acts as a sedative when given to animals in tests. Because of that, it is sometimes suggested to help people with insomnia. But no human studies have been done to see whether it works and whether it's safe.

Gotu kola’s constituents have a strong blood purifying action, and help to lower serum cholesterol levels; this could be mainly due to the action of Beta-sitosterol. The plant saponins help the function of the immune system, by assisting in breaking down the walls of diseased cells, making microbes easier to kill. It seems likely, that it is this same action that has been seen in research, which works to kill the leprosy bacteria by dissolving the waxy, protective substance around the bacteria.

Rheumatoid arthritis, an auto-immune disease, is inflammation affecting the synovial membranes. Cartilage and tissue, surrounding the lubricating fluid in the joints, can be destroyed. The body replaces this damaged tissue with scar tissue, causing the spaces between the joints to become narrow, to develop folds and to fuse together. There is stiffness, swelling, anemia, weight loss, and often crippling pain, with loss of mobility to carry out normal activity, which means the quality of life becomes greatly reduced. Gout can be classed as another form of arthritis, which attacks the smaller joints of the feet and hands, depositing crystallised uric acid salts in the joints causing swelling, redness, a sensation of heat and extreme pain. People, who wished to be free of these painful, debilitating diseases, have taken the herb. After a period of weeks to months, they usually experience a lessening of pain and disability: some report a complete cure.

Uses in traditional medicine

To treat dizziness, boil the leaves with green beans then leave it overnight in the open. Eat the leaves and beans with some sugar the next morning. When the leaves are boiled with onions and drunk, it is effective for treating rheumatism, water boiled with the roots is taken as tonic.

To treat typhoid, pound the leaves finely and apply to the forehead. Water in which the roots have been soaked is used for bathing by mothers after childbirth. The roots when boiled are sometimes used by Malays as a decoction or douche to treat vaginitis and vaginal thrush.

Ayurvedic medicine recommends pegaga for treating asthma, anaemia and other blood disorders, to reduce inflammation and fever. It consider the herb a “balancing” tonic, that increases energy while it relaxes the body, it is held to be effective in combating insomnia and making one calm for yoga and meditation.

According to scientific study, it is also said to improve intelligence and memory retention. The study reveal that tablets made from this plant when taken orally over 12 weeks by mentally retarded children, produced significant capabilities in them Madasiatic acid and brahmic acid have been isolated from the plant.

Health Benefits of MENGKUDU (Morinda citrifolia)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Wed, 29 Oct 2014 09:49:00 +0800

Local name: Mengkudu

Scientific name: Morinda citrifolia

Other names:Noni, mengkudu besar, queen of morinda, morinda,nthau,Indian mulbery, Ba Ji tian, hog apple,wild pine,menkoedoe,Ruibardo Caribe

Family:Rubiaceae

Mengkudu is more popularly known as noni. It is a type of plant that is commonly found in the tropics. Generally, mengkudu, can be categorised as small mengkudu and big mengkudu. It can also be categorised as with seeds and without (this is not so commonly found). In western countries, mengkudu is known as queen of morinda, it is also sometimes called cheese fruit because the smell it emits is similar to cheese when the fruit ripens. The leaves can be eaten as vegetables or ulam. It is rich in vitamin A.

Noni is definitely the fruit of the Morinda citrifolia tree, which is indigenous to the regions of Southeast Asia to Australia. The Morinda citrifolia is really a tree of the coffee family, and is also identified by distinct titles all over the earth. A number of the widespread titles of this tree are usually, Indian mulberry, great morinda, cheese fruits and also beach mulberry. This tree can easily attain a height of approximately 12 feet. Noni fruit is green in color, yet ultimately turns into yellowish green whenever ripened. It will take about Three months on an average for the noni fruits to ripen. Noni fruits are these days more and more utilized for producing nutritional supplements, since they are proven to supply a number of health advantages. The health supplements mostly are obtainable in the form of noni juice.

NONI is actually a Distinctive Exotic FRUIT which is cultivated within the Pacific Islands. It is known to the Pacific Island people as being a advantageous foodstuff. Usually it is used as a beverage to boost bodily functionality as well as assist all round great health. It really is well known as the “Aspirin of the Ancient”. It has been used successfully for more than 2,000 years in Polynesia, China India and also elsewhere and grows best wherever there is pollution free volcanic soil. The Cook Islands being one of several regions where it grows, have a distinctive feature; those are the only region on the planet that may claim to be totally “Organic” in the horticulture.

In the Carribean, it is known as 'pain killer tree' . In Malaysia, it is used as an antidote for urinary problems, period pains and bleeding. The mengkudu leaves are used as a bath infusion for women who are in confinement. Research has shown that mengkudu has the nutrients to prevent diabetes, cancer and hypertension. It is also said to provide relief for asthma, hay fever and rheumatism. Intake of mengkudu juice can also prevent diseases caused by hormonal deficiency like senility and is said to slow down aging.

Noni fruit has had hardly any scientific study therefore; the benefits supplied in this post are to this day not scientifically confirmed. We do know that this is a effective anti-oxidant as well as anti-inflammatory which usually certainly have applications to enhancing overall health. More people are boasting its health advantages.

1. Antioxidant

Antioxidants assist to battle toxins within the body. Free-radicals include the byproducts of food metabolism. Free radicals result in the oxidization of tissues. This originally leads to swelling in your body and finally can result in disease. Antioxidants eliminate toxins supplying the body along with defense against cardiovascular disease as well as cancer.

2. Anti-inflammatory

Noni fruit is really a effective anti-inflammatory that makes it relevant in lots of inflamation related illnesses. Conditions just like arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, as well as osteoarthritis particularly, noni fruit might help relieve the symptoms. Swelling in joints causes swelling, pain as well as lack of motion. By reduction of swelling in joints, the sufferer can get decreased swelling, enhancement in pain levels as well as rise in joint flexibility. Various other inflamation related problems that may benefit consist of psoriasis, eczema, acne, asthma, inflammatory bowel diseases and dermatitis.

3. Skin Health

Noni fruit can be used as a tonic for the skin. As being a abundant source of anti-oxidants, vitamin A and C plus selenium causes it to be a powerful fruit for skin health. These types of nutrition assist to safeguard the skin from cell damage and also the outcomes of ageing. Noni fruit creams at the moment are readily available for external use.

4. Improves Digestion

Noni juice equally supports as well as energizes the digestive process, promoting a far more effective breakdown of food into practical forms of nutrients. The laxative qualities of the juice assisted in the removal of waste material, cleaning the colon and efficiently sustaining a healthy environment within the lower intestine. Since digestion is improved, noni juice can also be capable of manage weight through the elimination of cravings since the body is much better revitalized.

5. Mental Health

Since noni fruit encourages serotonin discharge through the brain, some individuals have said mental health advantages. Serotonin will be a feel great hormone which can be used to manage moods. Noni fruit might be useful in the management of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders and also as a sleep aid. However, there isn’t any technological data presently to back these types of claims.

6. Noni for Diabetes

Initial research has discovered noni juice to be a highly effective supplement for the management of diabetes. In accordance with the research presented in “Evidence-based Complementary as well as Alternative Medicine,” after 20 days of dealing with diabetic animals along with noni, a substantial normalization of hyperglycemia — high blood-sugar levels — occurred which was nearly equal to that of the animals cured with classic diabetic drugs. The animals using noni juice additionally had considerably less liver damage and also fatty deposits within their livers as compared to animals within the placebo group. Noni juice’s mechanism of action just isn’t yet recognized, however it is assumed that noni possibly helps you to encourage insulin release or even improve insulin sensitivity within the body.

7. Noni for Cancer

Noni is considered the subject of research like a healing supplement for cancer patients. Research has shown that noni encourages an immune response, probably because of polysaccharides, that are antioxidant-rich ingredients seen in noni juice. One study discovered that the polysaccharides within noni juice assisted to avoid the expansion of breast as well as colon cancer cells. One more compound which was present in noni, known as a glycoside, was discovered to prevent cancer cells from attacking as well as damaging DNA and duplicating. These studies is still initial, yet McClatchey states that research is displaying guarantee for the usage of noni like a therapeutic adjunct for cancer victims.

8. Supports the Immune System

Since noni juice raises the assimilation of food, essential immune-supporting nutrition be more easily available to the body. Additionally, noni juice increases the elimination of waste elements through the body, therefore restricting the cells’ contact with harmful toxins which enter in the body’s system because of contaminated air or water within the atmosphere.

9. Pain-Relieving Properties

Noni juice is utilized effectively as a possible pain killer, reducing pain with out negative effects. This can be possible due to the connections in between xeronine as well as the cells. Xeronine results in a positive atmosphere for normal cellular functions, and also this in return, may possibly encourage a general sense of wellness, which in turn lessens the pain messages towards the brain.

10. Antibacterial

Whilst not an alternative to anti-biotics, the active dietary elements in noni juice, particularly anthraquinones, scopoletin and terpenes, can easily eliminate bacteria as well as fungus.

11. Immune system booster

Noni stimulates macrophages as well as fortifies the immune system, which in turn generates more lymphocytes. Additionally, it consists of anti-bacterial agents which combat infectious bacteria, which includes Staphylococcus aureus as well as Escherichia coli.

12. Antidepressant/sedative

Noni encourages seratonin as well as melatonin, two extremely important hormones. Seratonin affects mood, emotions, and sleep; imbalance in amounts of serotonin may possibly give rise to depressive disorders. Melatonin manages the Circadian rhythm, which will help you sleep; keeping this regular can help you obtain a good night’s rest, additionally enhancing your mood.

13. Skincare/hair

Noni’s qualities are helpful on skin and scalp conditions, just like eczema as well as ringworm; also applied on scalp for glossy hair; and can keep the skin youthful. Simply apply a few juice on affected skin/scalp, leave on for Fifteen minutes, rinse off. Ingestion of juice might help your nails to grow much better.

14. Hypertension

Noni has elevated levels of phytonutrients, selenium, as well as vitamin C, which battles free radical damage on blood vessel walls; scopoletin, a substance that could reduce blood pressure level; it really is alkaline, which will keep body fluids from turning into too acidic, as a result damaging free-radicals. Additionally, it has proxeronine, that is required for the body to make xeronine. Xeronine assists synchronize the cells to operate harmonious, lowering stress and as a result, blood pressure. Also offers the amino acid, tryptophan. When tryptophan enters the blood stream and goes to cells, it will help create some other substances which are important, for instance even more seratonin, that is ideal for reducing blood pressure level by means of its relaxing effect.

15. Irritable Bowel Syndrome/constipation

Noni is high in dietary fiber, which will help relieve the strain in your intestines as well as softens stool. Also offers essential vitamins and minerals to maintain your intestines healthy and balanced.

16. Metabolism

Move over Acai berry as well as green tea, Noni berry for metabolism is definitely the most recent super fruit which is creating waves within the health supplements circuit. Noni berry is commonly known as to boost your energy needs, help much better digestive function, control metabolic process and assist you to lead an energetic, healthy lifestyle. The local individuals of Polynesia utilized Noni fruit to fight exhaustion on a trip long distance. These days, Noni berry extracts, Noni tea, Noni tonic as well as other pills as well as tablets supply the exact same health advantages utilized traditionally. Noni berry for metabolism could also find uses for treating raised blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. The sufficient insoluble soluble fiber from the leaves as well as roots of the plant might help reduce the intake of simple sugars. The result is a slower as well as controlled surge in blood sugar levels soon after meals. Noni juice as well as Noni tea taken at frequent intervals or even after meals might help the digestion process. Moreover, certain chemical substances present in Noni extracts have led scientists to analyze the effect of Noni berry on cholesterol. Amino acids in Noni berry decrease the effect of plaque build up in arteries as well as manage the circulation of blood. Noni berry for metabolism and heart health are the most recent in the line of health advantages from Noni.

17. Helps in Arthritis

Noni juice assists in decreasing inflamation conditions as well as fortifies bones and also ligaments. The effect of Noni in arthritis treatment is a time tested one. People struggling with arthritis can seem to be the relief if Noni juice is taken as recommended by the manufacture on a regular basis.

18. Integumentary

The noni plant was initially noted for its usefulness for treating skin ailment. Tahitians have long been utilizing the fruits, leaves and bark for treating wounds, sores, abscesses, boils, ulcers, fungal infections, ringworms and scalp infections. Additionally, noni juice can be used as hampoo since it provides shine to hair, as well as treats hair dryness and also head lice.

19. Urinary and Reproductive Benefits

Apart from its usefulness for treating urinary tract infections, normal consuming of noni juice assists in dealing with sexually transmitted diseases just like gonorrhea as well as syphilis. It may also help in the diminishing of prostate enlargements as well as uterine fibroids, reduction of menstrual pains as well as normalization of irregular menstruation.

20. Nervous System Benefits

Consuming noni juice assists relieve pains following surgeries as well as giving birth. Additionally, it offers pain alleviation for a number of neuralgias, which includes shingles. Research has revealed that consuming noni juice stimulates serotonin receptors within the brain. Serotonin is great for sleep regulation, treats migraines and also depression, and enables alleviate the signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, it reduces the tremors of Parkinson’s disease and could hinder the neurodegenerative processes in multiple sclerosis.

21. Noni reduces cholesterol

Reductions in total cholesterol and triglycerides have been seen in smokers who consumed a product that contains juice from the fruit of the noni tree every single day for a month. The research was funded by the manufacturer of the product, sold as Tahitian Noni Juice. Investigator Mian-Ying Wang, MD, states she first became enthusiastic about learning noni juice in 1999 after becoming convinced that it assisted decrease her pain from the wrist fracture.

22. Noni increases energy

Evaluation of the ergogenic potential of noni juice.

Noni fruit juice is definitely an ever more popular health food. Traditionally, noni fruit was utilized by Polynesians to fight exhaustion. Clinical tests have stated that noni juice usage enhances standard of living scores associated with physical functioning and energy levels to fight fatigue, enhance stamina as well as improve all round physical performance.

23. Noni reduces Infections and strengthen immune system

Infections are the most typical uses of noni. The extract from the leaves of noni (not the fruit that renders noni juice) displayed an average suppression of Ascaris lumbricoides (intestinal nematodes) development in the test tube. However, noni juice hasn’t been proven to enhance infections once symptoms have revealed, however, there are anecdotal reports of patients feeling better from mild infections after using noni. Decoctions of the leaves or roots of related mulberry species might have several suppressive effect on parasitic infections.

24. Noni for pain relief

Pain, painful inflammation as well as swellings are definitely the second most typical use of noni. Research in mice has revealed that extracts from the root of noni (again, not rendered from the fruit) possess some pain reducing as well as sedative action.

25. Noni Juice and Hair Loss

It is important to observe that losing of hairs is really a natural process along with anything from 100 to 300 hairs randomly shed every day. Clearly time has a role to play within the development of hair loss both for women and men. Humans are born with different quantities of soft as well as fine body hair. Over time a number of this hair becomes stronger as well as develops further characteristics just like colour as well as texture. Up to the oncoming of adolescence the hairline is seen as a a minimal spread over the forehead. For males, this continues just for some more years.

Utilizing Noni Juice regularly might help stop hair thinning, in accordance with numerous major scientific tests. Moreover, utilizing Noni products, just like shampoos as well as soaps, will help stop the problem in the source by assisting to regenerate the lost hair cells. Noni Juice might have several advantages in store for you if you suffer one of these simple situations.

26. Anti-Aging With Noni Juice

Noni juice includes a number of effective anti-oxidants. Antioxidants are extremely beneficial simply because they avoid free-radicals from damaging cells. They assist numerous body systems just like the defense, circulatory, digestive, metabolic, and nervous system. Anti-oxidants will also be very helpful in stopping skin aging as well as skin damage. They’re extremely effective anti-aging substances. Noni juice likewise helps produce xeronine within the body, that is a extremely effective agent in restoring broken cells.

27. Menstrual Problems

China Traditional medicinal practices has been recommended for hundreds of years Noni juice within the management of abnormal menstrual cycles in females, particularly when associated with lower back pain as well as pelvic area. Research has shown that in the properties of the noni for weight loss, it energizes the immune system, controlling cell function and cellular regeneration of damaged cells. It’s recently been proven to improve strength and is also thought to be attractive the management of impotence as well as sterility.

28. During Confinement

Post-childbirth, women bathe using the leaves (boiled in water) as it apparently helps reduce flatulence, while the seeds and fruit are commonly consumed during confinement.

29. Food Source

Noni is also a food source among natives of certain countries. For some, it is even a staple food.

In countries like Fiji, the fruit is consumed either raw or cooked, whereas in Myanmar, the unripened fruit is used in curries. In Malaysia, it is a part of local dishes like rojak and kerabu. Some Chinese use it in soups, believing it to have health-giving properties.

Its multitude of uses is the reason why so many scientific studies are being conducted on whether noni actually does all that users claim it does.

After all, if it has been consumed more than a thousand years, may not there be some truth to its abilities? What's more important is; how does it help those who are living?

Anyhow, caution needs to be noticed if considering ingesting any kind of noni fruit as the negative effects could be serious. Until scientific research performs in depth studies into this fruit, most health advantages will stay misguided.

CEKUR (Kaempferia galanga)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 22:43:00 +0800

Kaempferia Galangal is called "Cekur", "Cekuh" or "kecil galanga" in Malay; "Kencur" or "Kentjoer" in Indonesia; "Ingurupiyali" or "Hingurupiyali" in Sri Lanka; "Proh hom", "Hom proh", "Waan teendin" or "Waan hom" in Thailand.

Cekur, thought to be native to China and India is now cultivated quite widely in Malaysia and other Southeast Asian countries. The highly aromatic rhizome of this plant is valued in Malaysia as a spice to flavor rice and also in

folk medicine. This spice is rather popular in Thailand where it is used frequently in curries and soups.

https://LevelTiga.com/atie5572

This is very short herb with leaves spreading horizontally and lying flat on the ground. The leaves are arranged distichously and packed very closely. The

leaves are simple, green and elliptical-lanceolate in shape. The leaves are slightly aromatic. Flower are borne solitary. A stemless, small rhizomatous herb; rhizome tuberous, aromatic; root fibres-fleshy, cylindric. Flowers white, 6-12 cm from the centre of the plant between the leaves.

Cekur is found growing wildly in old gardens . It is also normally cultivated in villages. Cekur is propagated through rhizome divisions or cutting obtained from matured mother plants.

There are also names in other languages referring to sand, such as German ("Sandingwer") and Chinese ("Saa jiang") .

The scientific name is in honour of German botanist Engelbert Kaempfer (1651 to 1716.)

Scientific name : Kaempferia galanga Linn.

Common name : Maraba,Finger root, Chinese ginger

Local name : Cekur

Family : Zingiberaceae

Kaempferia galanga is one of the types of medicinal plants and one plant species in the tribe-finding meeting. Kaempferia galanga is a plant that is often used in the manufacture of traditional medicine, or more commonly referred to as herbs. Kaempferia galanga still have relatives with ginger, turmeric, keys and so on. Kaempferia galanga benefits have been widely used since the days of our ancestors. Kaempferia galanga is used as a base for traditional medicine for hundreds of years. Have you ever heard or drink herbal Kaempferia galanga?

Since ancient times, Kaempferia galanga has been known as a medicinal plant that is widely used to help treat various diseases. Kaempferia galanga among other benefits is to help relieve headaches, influenza, sprains and several other ailments. Kaempferia galanga efficacy has also been known since antiquity to help streamline the body, relieve migraine attack, asthma cure, treat rheumatic diseases, treat tetanus, coughing and able to get rid of acne. Based on laboratory research, the efficacy of Kaempferia galanga is because the plant Kaempferia galanga there are more than 23 compounds and seven among these compounds contain monoterpena compounds, aromatic compounds and sesquiterpene.

Kaempferia galanga current benefits are also widely used for the manufacture of modern medicine and cosmetic ingredients.

How to Obtain Benefits Kaempferia galanga

If you want to make a traditional herb with material Kaempferia galanga, you can just process it in a simple way. Kaempferia galanga properties you could easily feel the eating Kaempferia galanga regular basis, be it a form of traditional herbal and modern in supplement form.

One benefit of Kaempferia galanga is a body slimming. The trick, Kaempferia galanga rhizome Brewed 1 plus 1 teaspoon of rice flour and palm sugar 1 slice with a glass of hot water. Allow a few moments and then drink 3 times a day regularly.

Kaempferia galanga other properties is to treat coughs. How, Grate 3 pieces of Kaempferia galanga by a finger and put in half a glass of water that has been given a taste of salt. Then drink every morning and evening within a few days, your cough will subside. Also the powdered rhizome mixed with bees honey is given for coughs and pectoral ailments. Kaempferia galanga has no harmful side effects, so there are no age restrictions in order to consume Kaempferia galanga but also should not be too excessive.

The rhizomes of cekur mixed with oil is used externally for healing of wounds and applied warm on rheumatic region. The sliced rhizomes tied as a poultice hastens suppuration of boils. A lotion prepared with the rhizome is used to remove dandruff or scales from the head.

Cekur is planted using mature rhizomes cuttings having 3-4 leaf buds. The cutting is dipped in fungicide to protect from soil-borne diseases. The rhizome cuttings are pregerminated in growing media before field planting to ensure a good stand in the field.Cekur can be planted in the open field or slightly shady areas. Or in the pot.

Soil Suitability - Cekur can be cultivated on various soil types but it grows better on soil with high organic matter content, good texture and drainage. It can be planted both in the tropic and subtropic. Under natural growing conditions, the vegetative growth starts at early rainy season and the leaves will be dried up in drought season when the rhizomes start to mature.

Young leaves and rhizome are harvested at vegetative stage for dip, salad and other culinary purposes. For medicinal purposes, the mature rhizomes are harvested at 10-11 months after planting. At this stage, the leaf starts to turn yellow and dries.

The Rose Hip @ R. canina

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Tue, 4 Mar 2014 10:46:00 +0800

Rose hips are a perennial plant with thorny branches that give way to pink and white flowers and scarlet fruits, called “hips.” These rose hips are the ripe ovaries or seeded fruit of roses forming on branches after the flower. They are oval in shape and appear fleshy, shrunken, and wrinkled. Inside the hips are 3 or more small yellow-brown seeds. R. canina is native to Europe, North Africa, and temperate areas of Asia. The fruits (hips) are picked in autumn and used medicinally.

Scientific names: Commonly derived from Rosa canina, R. rugosa, R. acicularis, or R. cinnamomea. Numerous other species of rose have been used for the preparation of rose hips.

Common names: Rose hips also are known as heps and dog rose (R. canina).

Rose hips are typically colored orange or red and resemble a berry. Rose hips are the fruit of rose bushes and, when fresh, can have more than 60 times as much vitamin C as one orange. The rose hips valued for their medicinal use in folk medicine come from two rose varieties: Rosa gallica and Rosa canina, which are native to Asia, Northern Africa and Europe. The medicinal properties of rose hips can be obtained by using them to make teas, syrups and jellies. They are also used to make oils that are used to help the complexion. Rose hips have many culinary uses. They are used in soups, stews, puddings, apple sauce, tarts, breads, pie, jam and marmalade.

However, what makes Rose hips extra special is that it also serves as an herbal medicine and a holistic treatment for a lot of diseases and conditions. Rose hips provide a robust source of vitamin C and are believed to have more vitamin C than any other citrus fruit.

Modern medical scientists have found out that the Rose hips have an anti-inflammatory property that helps patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis, a known condition that causes the breakdown of important joint cartilages that allows bones to rub against other bones thus causing loss of movement and pain during sudden movements.

The scientists have found out that a powder of a wild variety of rose hip known as Rosa canina can be “three times more effective than standard paracetamol” in pain remedy and also highly effective and powerful than glucosamine.

Researchers based in Denmark also reported their conclusion based on a study, that patients who consumed daily a rose powder made from dog rose enjoyed lesser joint pain and stiffness and an overall improvement in posture, mood and well being within 4 months of rose hips treatment. They also gathered that it is because rosehips contain a high amount of antioxidant flavonoids which is known to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.

Rose hips also protects from cardiovascular disease and cancer because it contains a high dose of anthocyanins, catechins and other known phytochemicals and polyphenolics that protects the body from cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Rose hips also contain plant sterols, carotenoid pigments and tocotrienols. Aside from these, researchers later found out that Rose hips also contain pectin, a strong soluble fiber that builds a wall that protects against all sorts of cardiovascular diseases. Clinical trials results show that rose hips greatly reduce the effect of C-reactive protein levels that cause cardiovascular diseases thus lowering the possibility of it to happen.

Being a true holistic remedy, rose hips is also used as herbal teas, by letting the crushed or dried rose hips boil for 8-10 minutes. With the rose hips herbal tea, one can add half teaspoon of dried mint for additional flavor and add 2 tablespoons of berries per pint of hot water. Rose hips herbal tea is very effective as an anti-oxidant and helps cleanse the body system with unwanted chemicals and contributes to a smoother blood stream flow.

Other benefits of Rose hip Tea

Disorders and Diseases

Rose hip tea may be used to help treat disorders such as chronic diarrhea, allergies and asthma as well as bronchitis and stress. It's also thought to benefit those with (as well as help prevent) heart disease. Because the pectin in rosehips binds with intestinal fats prior to absorption, it may relieve constipation, cleanse the intestines and help lower cholesterol.

Urinary Tract

Rose hip tea simulates the immune system. As a result, it can help relieve irritation in the urinary tract, particularly given its mild disinfectant properties. Consequently, sometimes is used to treat urinary tract infections.

Cold and Flu Prevention

Thanks to its high vitamin C content, rose hips can be used to prevent and treat colds and flu. The antioxidants and bioflavonoids in rosehips also play a role in boosting the body's immune system response by causing it to attack free radicals.

Rheumatism and Water Retention

Rose hip tea acts as a diuretic, meaning it helps the body eliminate water within body tissue. It also has been used to relieve mild pain associated with rheumatism.

How to grow Rose Hips

Transplanting

Home gardeners don’t start roses from seed, use cuttings or seedlings. Choose a location that will get a lot of sun, and can handle the plants growing to a height close to 5 feet. Roses will grow into a very dense and thorny shrub, so don’t plan on using it too close to any walkways or paths. Brushing up against the rose bush can be unpleasant and prickly.

Dig a hole large enough for the roots of your rose seedling, and plant it to the same depth as it was in its original pot. You don’t need to add any compost or fertilizer, but give it a generous watering.

Containers

Though they can grow into large shrubs, you can certainly grow roses in containers. You will need a large pot, 5 to 10 gallons in size for each rose bush. Water a potted rose a little more often than a garden-planted one, but don’t let it get water-logged. Your container should have very good drainage. Use regular soil without added compost, and even add a little sand to help with draining.

Pests and Diseases

Roses can also suffer from stem cancer, a fungus that usually attacks the stems but can also effect the flowers. You will first notice brown or reddish patches on the stems of your roses, that eventually dry out and leave a shrunken lesion on the branch. If it goes all the way around the stem, the branch will die off above that point.

Fungicides can help, and you can help prevent it with a bit of care. Prune out any dead branches in the shrub and try to remove any that are rubbing against each other. If you do water your roses, do so at the soil not over the leaves. The water will spread the fungus spores.

Whether you are using fungicide or pesticide, make sure you get one intended for edible plants. Buying products for roses may make your hips toxic because the sprays are not formulated for “food plants”. Any products that are labeled for vegetables or fruits will work fine.

Harvest and Storage

Most rose hips will be ripe for picking, orange hips are not quite ripe, but deep red ones are over-ripe. You have to judge the right color in between to get the highest levels of vitamin C. They should be just slightly soft, not mushy.

Use clippers to snip the rose hips off each stem. Spread them out in the sun and let them dry until you notice their skins starting to wrinkle up slightly. You need to slice each hip in half, and scrape out the little seeds. Once the seeds are out, leave the hips to dry out completely.

After they are dried, you can store them in the refrigerator for several months. If you freeze them, they will keep for a year or longer.

The Miracle Herbs : Daun Dewa @ Gynura segetum (Lour.) Merr.

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Mon, 3 Mar 2014 17:01:00 +0800

Daun Dewa called Gynura segetum (Lour) Merr or Gynura pseudochina (L) DC. belonging to the plant family Compositae or Asteraceae. This plant is known by local names beluntas china, Daun Dewa or samsit.

Classification

Division: Spermatophyta

Sub Division: Angiospermae

Class: Dicotyledoneae

Nation: Asterales

Ethnicity: Asteraceae (Compositae)

Marga: Gynura

Type: Gynura pseudochina (Lour.) DC

This plants said to have originated from Burma and China are classified in herb plants, with a height of 30 - 45, growing up straight, short trunk and soft, pentagon-shaped, oval cross-section, smooth-haired and purple-green. Young stems green, if a bit old branched lot.

This single-leaved plants, scattered around the stem, short-stemmed, rounded shape ovate to elongate, pointed tip, edges uneven, tapered base, pinnate leaves bones. Leaves mostly clustered at the bottom, somewhat rare in the tip of the stem, position the criss-cross. Both leaf surfaces smooth haired, white color. The color of the leaf surface dark green, light green bottom. Leaves about 20 cm long and 10 cm wide.

Compound interest is growing at the end of the stem, hump-shaped yellow (flower heads), hairy, calyx cup-shaped green, needle-shaped stamens. Seed, needle-shaped, about 0.5 cm long, brown. The roots of this plant is the root fibers, flaxen forming tubers as a food reserve.

Daun dewa for practitioners of herbal medicine.This plant can be used in circumstances or in fresh and dried. Apart from leaves, tubers of this plant can also be used as a drug. Twin advantages of this plant is not only used as a drug, can also be as a vegetable in the form of vegetables.

Chemical nature:

The content of the known chemicals, including: flavonoids, phenolic acid, chlorogenic acid, kafeat acid, p-kumarat acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid and vanillic acid. Gynecology and the benefits of flavonoids compounds, saponins, and essential oils is indicated to reduce blood cholesterol. Essential oils in plants is thought to stimulate blood circulation, is also analgesic and anti-inflammatory. Essential oils and flavonoids also act as antiseptic. Other compounds contained in the daun dewa are alkaloids, tannins and polyphenols.

Pharmacological EFFECTS:

This plant is: anti-coagulant (blood clot melt), stimulate circulation, stop bleeding, remove heat, cleanse toxins, anti-carcinogen and anti mutagenitas, diuretic. In the pharmacology of Chinese called this plant has a distinctive flavor and properties of neutral. Based on the results of empirical research and experience it is known that this plant is an anticoagulant, antikarsinogen, antimutagenitas, blood circulation, stop bleeding, blood thinners and diuretics (urine laxative). It is also known that all parts of this plant can be used to treat breast tumors and burns.

PLANT PART USED:

This pharmacological effect is obtained from the use of whole plants.

Leaves, is useful for: injuries hit, circulation, stop bleeding (coughing up blood, vomiting blood, nosebleeds), breast swelling, throat infection, did not come menstruation, and bitten by venomous animals.

Bulbs, useful for: remove a blood clot (haematom), swelling, bone's fracture, bleeding.

Propagation daun dewa and the plant is easily done, to grow with adequate fertilizer and regular watering.

Planting Daun Dewas can be done as follows:

a. Root crops can be planted immediately, within a few days, on the bulb will grow saplings.

c. If the plant is old, from the plant stalks arise chicks. If the height reached 15 cm, cut and replanted.

Fertilization should use organic fertilizers, such as manure or compost. Fertilizers are given 3-7 days before planting soil by stirring in the planting hole. Watering plays an important role on the performance of the leaf. Therefore, it should be done routinely every day. Weeding or eradication of weeds and grow pests (weeds) should be done routinely.

Here are some diseases that can be cured by the Daun dewa:

1. Swelling of acne (acne vulgaris)

Pulverized daun dewa to taste, then put on the pimple, then cover with a cloth or plaster.

2. Coughing and vomiting of blood, bleeding and swollen breasts.

Prepare 15 grams of leaves of daun dewa plant which have been washed, boiled in 3 cups water until the remaining half. Drinking after a cold, half a cup three times a day.

3. Prevent strokes and heart attacks

Take 10 grams of fresh leaves of the fresh daun dewa, washed, finely crushed, then add half a glass of water. Filter pulp, and drink every afternoon. Or it could be eaten raw 1 a day.

4. Bitten by venomous animals

Take 10 grams of tubers daun dewa, finely crushed. Put on the body part bitten beasts, then wrapped with a cloth or plaster.

5. Diabetes

Take 5 leaves of fresh daun dewa plant, brewed with 110 cc of water. Drink once a day as much as 100 cc.

6. Rheumatism

Take 30 grams of fresh daun dewa, wash and then boiled. Mash and squeeze with a little water. Drinking every day. Alternatively, provide 30 grams of fresh leaves of deciduous plants god, red ginger 10 grams, and 30 grams of mustard roots sky. Put it in 600 cc of water, and boil until the remaining 300 cc of water. Filter with a clean cloth, drink.

Or wash and 10 grams of fresh leaves of daun dewa, peeled and ate them raw 1 a day. Another way mashed tubers 10 grams, add ½ cup of boiled water, strain and squeeze, Drinking juice every afternoon.

7. Burns and slash

Mashed tubers of daun dewa, add a little brown sugar to the dough like a salve. Apply to the burn or cut wounds, and dressing.

8. Seizures in children

Take 30 grams of whole plant parts of daun dewa, wash. Mash and squeeze any excess water. Add 1 shot of warm wine, stir, and drink well 1 time a day.

9. Bruises and colds

Grandson net 10 gram tuber of daun dewa then mash until smooth, add 1 shot of yellow wine and heat for 1 minute. Drink at once one time a day.

10. Warts and Wounds Cantengan

Rinse five leaves of daun dewa and mash until smooth. Apply on the wound and dressing. Replace medicine and bandaged - 2 times a day.

11. Late period

Rinse all parts of the plant 25 grams of fresh leaves of the daun dewa, mashed, and then squeeze the water. Add 1 shot of warm wine, stir, and drink well 1 time a day.

12. Prevention and treatment of tumors and cancer

Rinse 3-4 leaves of daun dewa, wash thoroughly, then eat them raw as fresh vegetables.

There has a lot of the benefits we can get from the leaves of daun dewa.

Ginkgo Biloba

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 15:46:00 +0800

Ginkgo Biloba has a long history of medicinal use in traditional Chinese medicine, where the seed is most commonly used. Botanical name: Gingkoacea. The extract of ginkgo leaves is used medicinally in North America, where it's one of the most popular medicinal herbs, and many other countries around the world. Other names for ginkgo include Maidenhair tree, Kew tree, and Japanese silver apricot.

Plant Description

Ginkgo biloba is the oldest living tree species. A single tree can live as long as 1,000 years and grow to a height of 120 feet. It has short branches with fan-shaped leaves and inedible fruits that smell bad. The fruit has an inner seed, which may be poisonous. Ginkgos are tough, hardy trees and often seen as a large tree in parks and gardens.

Some of these can easily be grown in a small garden. All are very well suited to container growing where they will live happily for many years with minimal attention and occasional feeding.The leaves turn brilliant colors in the fall.

Growing your Ginkgo in a container
Many Ginkgos do very well in containers or pots placed on a patio amongst other plants and with correct feeding and watering, can live happily in a pot for many years. To pot up your Ginkgo:

Use a pot no more than twice the size of the pot the plant is bought in, do not over-pot. Use a good quality multi-purpose compost and add 10% grit to this

Top up each spring with a small amount of slow release fertiliser. Make sure the pot has good drainage holes and stand the pot on feet or tiles to allow free drainage through the bottom of the pot.

Remember to keep container grown plants well watered when they are in full leaf. Do not rely on the rain as most of the water will be shed away from the pot by the tree’s leaf canopy.

Properly pruning a ginkgo tree is essential to its health and appearance.

Although Chinese herbal medicine has used both the ginkgo leaf and seed for thousands of years, modern research has focused on the standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) made from the dried green leaves. This standardized extract is highly concentrated and seems to treat health problems (particularly circulatory problems) better than the non-standardized leaf alone.

Top 5 Health Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba

More than 40 components of the ginkgo biloba tree have been isolated and identified, but only two of them -- flavonoids and terpenoids -- are believed to account for Ginkgo biloba’s beneficial health effects. Flavonoids are plant-based antioxidants, and studies have revealed that flavonoids protect the nerves, heart muscle, blood vessels, and retina from damage. Terpenoids aid blood flow by dilating the blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of platelets.

Ginkgo biloba’s natural health benefits have been recognized by practitioners of traditional medicine. They use the health benefits to treat circulatory disorders and enhance memory. The top five health benefits of ginkgo biloba are:

1) Dementia and Alzheimer's disease:

Ginkgo biloba was used originally to regulate blood flow to the brain. Further studies revealed that it may protect nerve cells damaged by Alzheimer's disease. Many studies reveal that ginkgo biloba can improve memory and thinking in people affected by Alzheimer's or vascular dementia. Consumption of Gingko everyday helps in fighting signs like depression, performance anxiety, poor concentration, confusion, dizziness, headaches, absent-mindedness and more. This is because one of the main reasons for reduced cerebral capacity has been reduced blood flow to the brain. And by helping the arteries dilate and expand, the herb helps better blood flow to the brain.

2) Intermittent Claudication:
For people with intermittent claudication, it is very painful to walk. Published studies reveal that people taking ginkgo biloba can walk roughly 37 yards more than people taking a placebo.

3) Glaucoma:
According to one study, people with glaucoma who took 120 mg of ginkgo biloba daily for eight weeks realized that their vision had improved.

4) Memory Enhancement:

Ginkgo biloba is popular as a "brain herb." Studies have proven that it can improve memory in people with dementia. Ginkgo biloba is commonly added to nutrition bars, soft drinks, and fruit smoothies to boost memory and enhance cognitive performance.

5) Macular Degeneration:
It is a progressive, degenerative eye disease that impairs the retina. It is one of the most common causes of blindness in the United States. The flavonoids found in ginkgo biloba may help cure or alleviate some retinal problems

6) Others:
Ginkgo leaves are believed to contain compounds that thin blood and help to improve muscle tone in the walls of blood vessels. This may enhance blood flow. In saying this, there have been reports of Ginkgo greatly improving memory recall when being taken before exams, due to the increased blood flow in the brain.

Ginkgo Biloba also has a very powerful effect on the circulatory system so if you get cold hands, feet, and head, this is the herb for you. It also assists the heart and helps prevent and treat strokes by preventing formation of blood clots.

Another useful effect of Gingko is that it can help cannabis smokers restore short-term memory by sending more oxygen to the brain.

Heart disease is one of the biggest killers in the world and in an ideal world medical practitioners would recommend Ginkgo Biloba to all people over the age of 50 due to its ability to dilate blood vessels, allowing improved blood flow to the tissues and inhibiting the clumping of blood platelets which contribute to heart problems, strokes and artery conditions.

Ginkgo Biloba is a unique species of tree with no close living relatives and is one of the best-known examples of a living fossil. The flowers are dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required) and are pollinated by wind. The plant is not self-fertile. The leaves are best harvested in the late summer or early autumn just before they begin to change colour. They are dried for later use.

Precautions / Contraindications
Because of the nature of the herb it should not be taken if on heart medications. Gingko also may increase the risk of bleeding in people who take anticoagulant medicines such as warfarin and anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin. Constituents in ginkgo leaves may affect blood clotting, so ginkgo leaf extracts shouldn't be used by people with bleeding disorders. People with epilepsy (or anyone with a history of seizures) should avoid ginkgo, because it may increase the frequency of seizures.

Ginkgo leaf products may affect blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes should only be used under the supervision of a health care provider. The safety of ginkgo in pregnant or nursing women and children isn't known. Other than that it is wonderfully safe especially for our irreplaceable brain.

What are the Side Effects of Ginkgo?
Side effects of ginkgo leaf include excessive bleeding. Rarely, seizures have been reported in people using either the ginkgo leaf or seed. Other side effects include digestive problems, headaches, allergic skin reactions, or muscle weakness.

People should not consume fresh ginkgo seeds. Roasted ginkgo seeds may cause diarrhea, nausea, indigestion, vomiting, or allergic skin reactions. Side effects of fresh ginkgo seeds or over 10 roasted ginkgo seeds may include difficulty breathing, seizures, unconsciousness and death.

Kaffir Lime (Limau Purut)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Tue, 25 Feb 2014 18:00:00 +0800

Kaffir Lime or Citrus hystrix or Citrus amblycarpa belongs is a type of lime native to Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia. It is popularly known as makrut in Thailand and limau parut in some regions of Southeast Asia.

It is best known as an essential ingredient in Thai cuisine. The leaves are known as bai makrut in Thailand and you may see the tree referred to as a Makrut lime. Kaffir limes are relatively small trees in their natural habitat growing only 3m to 4m in height.

They have bright evergreen leaves with a characteristic bilobed appearance and a wonderful aroma when crushed. They have the typical tiny white flowers seen on most citrus with an accompanying citrus fragrance. In tropical areas kaffir lime trees are an intrinsic part of the landscape as well as the cuisine. The Thai's believe that the bai makrut wards off evil spirits, and kaffir lime trees are commonly planted at property entrances for this purpose.

Kaffir lime leaves are perfect for adding flavour to Asian cuisine. They are highly aromatic and add their own elegant flavour to stir-fry, curry, salad and fish cake dishes. Some examples for use include:

Thai curry dishes and soups, such as Tom Yum
Indonesian curry dishes
Thai fish cakes, e.g., Tod Mun and steamed fish dishes, e.g., Haw Moak
Kaffir lime and lemongrass in chicken stock Asian bouquet garni - make up with kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass and ginger as the bouquet garni ingredients and use to flavour stock
Krueng - a paste using Kaffir lime leaves as the base
Flavour rice - When cooking your rice, throw in a few leaves. The flavour will be imparted to the rice.
Add to a marinade - suitable for chicken, pork or lamb dishes.
Make a syrup - add a kaffir lime leaf to sugar overnight and use the sugar to make a syrup the next day.

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The leaves however are the richest part of the plant They are easy to store since they can be frozen for many months without losing flavor Just one or two are enough to flavor a pot full of soup The leaves can be rubbed on to gums and teeth for total dental health The essential oil in the leaves is extracted and used for various purposes It is a used in many bath products such as soaps and shampoos The oil is a great hair and scalp cleanser The aroma of the leaves is rejuvenating; add a few drops of oil or a few crushed leaves to your bath and you will feel your negative thoughts ease away It is believed to have a positive effect on the mind and the body and leaves one with positive thoughts The oil is also infused in deodorants and body sprays for that extra zing The oil is also used in tonics which aid in digestion and purify the blood Air fresheners with the kaffir lime aroma freshen up rooms and give a feeling of a freshly cleaned room.

Kaffir Limes Trees - Care and Cultivation

The Kaffir Lime tree is a fairly easy plant to grow and they are grown for the leaves, they require much the care and same conditions as other citrus trees.

Like most citrus trees Kaffir Limes like a sunny position in a well drained soil. They can be grown in pots and containers and once established are a reasonably tough tree. The leaves are what the Kaffir Lime is valued for, very fragrant and used widely in Indonesian and Malaysian cooking.

Try growing Kaffir Lime Trees in a pot, they will reach nearly 2m, however if you keep picking the leaves for cooking they will stay a lot smaller. In the garden they can get to 4 metre. A regular citrus fertilizer will be sufficient and keep moist but not wet.

Once established these trees require little care or pruning other than to keep in shape or maintain a smaller size. Take care when transpanting or cultivating around the root zone as they do not like to have the root system disturbed.

Mulch to retain moisture taking care not to build up mulch to close to the trunk of the tree itself as this can cause diseas and collar rot. Water every week in dry spells. In pots water more often.

Great in taste and abounding in various benefits, this plant is a great choice for your backyard and if you don't have a backyard, reserve some room for the leaves in your refrigerator.

Health Benefits of Nutmeg

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Wed, 4 Dec 2013 11:20:00 +0800

Nutmeg is actually the seed of a tropical fruit thought to have originated in New Guinea (the same fruit that gives us mace, actually!). The seeds are light brown on the outside, oblong-shaped, and about an inch long. Inside, there are densely packed layers of starchy tissue and fragrant oil.

The spice tree is a large evergreen plant that thrives well under tropical climates. A fully-grown tree reaches about 50-60 feet in height and is the source of nutmeg and mace, two valuable spices. The nutmeg fruit, in fact, is a drupe, about the size of an apricot, which when ripen splits up to reveal single centrally situated oval shaped hard kernel known as "nutmeg spice." The seed is closely enveloped by crimson-red colored lacy or thread like arils known as "mace." Both spices have a similar warm, sweet aromatic flavor.

Nutmeg tree yields up to three times in a season. Once harvested from the tree, the outer coat or husk is removed and discarded. Just underneath the tough husk is the golden-brown color aril, known as "mace," enveloping nutmeg kernel. Mace is gently peeled off from the kernel surface, flattened into strips, dried, and sold either as whole or finely ground. The nutmeg kernels are then dried under sun for several days to weeks. At larger commercial set-ups, this process is done rather more rapidly over a hot drier machine until the whole nutmeg rattles inside the shell.

The shell is then broken and shriveled nutmeg kernel is taken out. Finally, nuts are dipped in limewater in order to prevent insect infestation and seed germination.

Health benefits of nutmeg

Nutmeg and mace spice contains many plant-derived chemical compounds that are known to have been anti-oxidant, disease preventing, and health promoting properties.

The spicy nut contains fixed oil trimyristin and many essential volatile oils such as which gives a sweet aromatic flavor to nutmeg like myristicin, elemicin, eugenol and safrole. The other volatile-oils are pinene, camphene, dipentene, cineole, linalool, sabinene, safrole, terpeniol.

The active principles in nutmeg have many therapeutic applications in many traditional medicines as anti-fungal, anti-depressant, aphrodisiac, digestive, and carminative functions.

This prized spice is a good source of minerals like copper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, zinc and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure. Manganese and copper are used by the body as co-factors for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase. Iron is essential for red blood cell production and as a co-factor for cytochrome oxidases enzymes.

It is also rich in many vital B-complex vitamins, including vitamin C, folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin A and many flavonoid anti-oxidants like beta-carotene and cryptoxanthin that are essential for optimum health.

In fact, since ancient times, nutmeg has been used as a remedy for various ailments or to improve health in general. Here are some of the health benefits that nutmeg provides.

1. Brain Tonic

During ancient times, Roman and Greek civilizations used nutmeg as a type of brain tonic. This is because nutmeg can effectively stimulate your brain. As a result, it can help eliminate fatigue and stress. If you are suffering from anxiety or depression, nutmeg may also be a good remedy. Nutmeg can also improve your concentration so you can become more efficient and focused at work or at school.

2. Pain Relief

Nutmeg is also an effective sedative. In fact, nutmeg is a staple in ancient Chinese medicine. The Chinese used the spice to treat inflammation and abdominal pain. Use nutmeg if you are suffering from aching joints, muscle pain, arthritis, sores and other ailments. To relieve the pain, apply nutmeg oil to the affected areas.

3. Indigestion Relief

If you suffer from digestion-related problems like diarrhea, constipation, bloating, flatulence and so on, nutmeg can effectively offer you relief. Nutmeg oil relieves stomachaches by removing the excess gas from your intestines. Nutmeg can also boost your appetite.

4. Bad Breath Treatment

Because of its antibacterial properties, nutmeg can also effectively treat halitosis or bad breath. As you probably know, bad breath is usually caused by a build-up of bacteria in your mouth. Nutmeg can rid your mouth of these bacteria. This is the reason why nutmeg is a common ingredient in many brands of toothpastes. Nutmeg can also be used to treat gum problems and toothaches.

5. Liver and Kidney Detox

Detoxification is an important factor of good health. Diet, pollution, stress, tobacco, medication and other external substances can lead to the build-up of toxins in your organs. The liver and kidney are two of the organs where this toxic build-up usually develops. As a tonic, nutmeg can clean your liver and kidney and remove these toxins. If you are suffering from a liver disease then nutmeg can also be beneficial. Nutmeg is also effective in preventing and dissolving kidney stones. When your liver and kidney are successfully detoxified, they can perform their function better.

6. Skin Care

If skin care is one of your priorities then you might want to incorporate nutmeg into your regimen. Nutmeg can actually help you achieve smoother and healthier skin by helping you treat several skin problems. A scrub made from nutmeg powder and orange lentil powder can help you remove blackheads, a type of acne characterized by pores clogged with excess oil and dead skin cells. If you suffer from acne marks, nutmeg can also help make your scars less noticeable. What you need to do is mix some nutmeg powder with some honey to make a paste, which you will then apply to the acne marks.

7. Sleep Aid

If you have difficulty sleeping at night, drink a cup of milk with some nutmeg powder. This will help you achieve relaxation and will induce sleep.

Although nutmeg is said to counteract stomach distress from gas, do not try any home remedies without first consulting your physician. Nutmeg is also an astringent and stimulant, as well as a purported aphrodisiac.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Mon, 4 Nov 2013 13:51:00 +0800

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, German chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, wild chamomile or scented mayweed, is an annual plant of the composite family Asteraceae.

Many have noted that Chamomile has a distinctly apple like taste and aroma and in fact the word Chamomile as we have come to know it comes from the ancient Greek word Kamai-melon or ground apple. In Spanish the name for Chamomile is pronounced Manzanilla or "little apple."

Chamomile is used in many traditional remedies today included but not limited to a cure for the common cold, inflammation of the skin, bronchitis, fever and the liver. It is also an appetite stimulator and is also good for gallbladder complaints. One herbal medicine guide has even claimed that you won't have nightmares if you drink chamomile tea before bed.

Chamomile was called the "Plant's Physician in the past because they claimed that it was such a good companion plant. It's been said that if you plant chamomile near a sickly or drooping plant that 9 out of ten times the plant will recover.

Chamomile Tea is one of the most popular herbs in the world and is available in many different forms. The most prominent way in which this herb is relished is as a tisane, or herbal tea, its non-caffeinated herbal concoction made by pouring hot water over the leaves, stems, and roots of plants. You can make your own chamomile tea with other plants like lavender or tulsi to vary the flavor, or drink it alone.

Chamomile has many health benefits, especially for digestion. Chamomile can be used to treat abdominal pain, inflammation of the intestine, and as a sleeping pill (sedative). Moreover, it can be used to make herbal tea, by adding 2 tablespoons of dried chamomile flowers per cup of tea. To cope with abdominal pain (inflamed), it is recommended to drink a cup of chamomile tea every morning without breakfast for 2 or 3 months.

Chamomile is a popular herbal remedy. Available in two varieties – German and Roman – chamomile is used as an anti-depressant in addition to its use as a disease alleviator.

Here are the top five health benefits of chamomile.

Muscle relaxant and for menstrual cramps

One of the top uses of chamomile is for muscle relaxation. It can be used as a balm or a tablet. Alternately, one can brew one’s own chamomile tea. Two to three cups a day is ideal to de-stress and keep muscles relaxed. It also calms muscle spasms during menstrual cramps.

Aids sound sleep

Chamomile has components that have soothing properties. Take it before going to bed and it will help you sleep better.

Soothes the stomach

Chamomile soothes stomachaches and helps alleviate bowel problems. It also helps with digestion.

Fights the common cold

A cup of hot chamomile tea will help fight common colds as the herb has antibacterial properties.

Heals wounds faster

Apply a paste of chamomile flowers on wounds to make them heal faster.

In addition to the above benefits, chamomile is considered to be good for preventing the escalation of diabetic ailments. Chamomile oil is a good remedy for skin ailments and also helps improve skin quality. For stomach ailments, muscle spasms, and help in falling asleep, use about one tablespoon of dried herb per cup of water. Pour boiling water over the herbs and allow to steep for about 5 minutes. Strain and enjoy.

Cautions

Some people have serious allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis) to chamomile. If you are allergic to other plants in the same family such as daisy, ragweed, aster, chrysanthemum, or marigold you should use caution when using chamomile.

Chamomile should be avoided during pregnancy because it may act as a uterine stimulant and therefore increase the chance of abortion.

People with bleeding disorders or on blood thinners should avoid chamomile, as it contains coumarin and may increase the chance of bleeding.

Pale purple coneflower

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Mon, 4 Nov 2013 13:11:00 +0800

Echinacea pallida (Nutt.), commonly called pale purple coneflower, is a species of herbaceous perennial plant in the family Asteraceae. It is sometimes grown in gardens and used for medicinal purposes. Its native range is the south central region of the United States.

Flowers are single on end of stout hairy stem, with 15-20 purplish pink to nearly white rays (petals), each 1½ to 3 inches long and less than ¼ inch wide, with three notched teeth at the tips. Petals grow out and up, hanging down with maturity. In the center is a large round reddish brown disk covered in tiny brown disk flowers with white pollen.

Leaves are mostly basal, with stem leaves widely spaced and alternately attached on the lower half of the stem. Lower leaves are long and narrow, to 8 inches long, ½ to 1 inch wide, on long stalks, becoming smaller and stalkless as they ascend the stem. Edges are toothless and there are 3 distinct veins along the length. Stems and leaves are hairy and rough to the touch. Stems may be green or purple tinged, rarely branched.

Similar species: Glade coneflower (E. simulata) has yellow, not white pollen; it occurs mainly in the eastern Ozarks.

Size: Height: to 3 feet.

Habitat and conservation: Occurs in prairies, glades, savannas, openings of dry upland forests, pastures, roadsides and railroads. Along with other flowers in the genus Echinacea, this plant is often targeted by unscrupulous "root collectors" who sell them to manufacturers of herbal medicines. Such vandalism is one reason laws were enacted restricting the collecting of plants from Missouri's public highways.

Distribution in Missouri: Scattered statewide, although apparently absent from the Mississippi Lowlands; in the eastern Ozarks, glade coneflower (Echinacea simulata) tends to predominate.

Human connections: Though scientists debate its efficacy, this and other echinaceas are used for medicinal purposes and are threatened by root diggers. Laws restricting collection have been enacted to protect wild populations. Coneflowers are easily grown in gardens and are available at native plant nurseries.

Ecosystem connections: The seeds of coneflowers are eaten by goldfinches, whose late-summer breeding time corresponds with the abundant seed set of these and other sunflower-family flowers such as goldenrods, ironweed and others. The tough rootstocks of coneflowers prevent erosion.

Purple cone flowers are used to make herbal teas that are designed to strengthen the immune system, according to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Native Americans commonly used the purple cone flower for medicine, according to floridata.com. Today more than 200 medicines are made from purple coneflower extract.

Hempedu Bumi (Bile Earth)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Mon, 4 Nov 2013 10:37:00 +0800

Bile Earth

Scientific name: Andrographis paniculata

Family: Acanthaceae

Common Name: Bile earth

Other names: The root story, sambilata, nivalembu, king of bitter, all-Tita

Location found: Malaysia, Thailand, India, Indonesia

The plant of the tiny while flowers at the axils is a herb known as Andrographis paniculata. The Malays call it Hempedu Bumi (Bile of the Earth)/Pokok Cerita (Plant of Tales) while other locals call it the antibiotic plant. Hempedu Bumi is a medicinal plant that grows in India, China and South East Asia. The name in Malay means ‘Bile of the earth’. It is very bitter and is nicknamed ‘King of Bitters’.

The Chinese call the plant Chaun xin lian. It is widely cultivated in China, Thailand, the East and West Indies and Mauritius . This medicinal plant is also popular in South East Asia and India. It is one of the ingredients used in traditional herbal formulations.

ANTI BACTERIAL AND ANTI VIRAL PROPERTIES

Research on this herb has shown its effectiveness against several strains of the HIV virus. It prevents the virus from infecting healthy T-cells and inhibits the spread of infection, while other studies show that the herb is able to fight HIV in cells even after they have been infected. This action is the same as AZT, a commonly used AIDS drug with a number of debilitating side-effects, including a low blood count.

Other reported applications include its use in cases of malaria, dysentery and herpes.

The global flu epidemic of 1918 was one of the most devastating infectious outbreaks in world history - more virulent even than the Black Death in the 14th century - killing 50 million people worldwide. No country escaped its onslaught but in India, Hempedu Bumi [Andrographis paniculata], was credited with stopping the spread of the deadly virus.

Nowadays in the West, those who use ‘alternative medicine’ turn to this plant to prevent and treat the common cold. Research has indicated its effectiveness against upper respiratory infection by increasing the body's resistance . It is also an expectorant (promotes mucus discharge from the respiratory system)

Scientists have discovered that this herb helps boost the immune system by stimulating the production of antibodies and macrophages - large white blood cells that scavenge foreign matter.

Hempedu Bumi extracts are also showing promise in relieving diarrhea associated with E.coli bacterial infections.

Bile earth leaves can be used to lower high blood pressure in addition to treating diabetes. Boil the leaves and drinks. The leaves can also treat wounds by grinding the leaves and put it on the wound. Chemical substances in the leaf can break the fat molecules that have clogged bloodstream causing blood pressure to increase. Leaf boiled water that has bitter trigger it to break down fat molecules. But it is undeniable that taste bitter, and sour so difficult to separated local natural herbal medicine. But the taste does not attract a large part of our society. They prefer to taste the sweet and salty. Of sweet and salty in excess can cause certain diseases. But if we balance the tastes are good for health.

TREATS HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE AND DIABETES

Currently scientists are focusing on the herb’s ability to prevent the formation of blood clots and prevent the re-clogging of arteries after angioplasty - a technique used to treat blocked arteries by inserting a balloon into the blood vessels which is then inflated to widen the artery.

Further research reveals that the herb activates fibrinolysis, a natural process in the body in which blood clots are dissolved. It also relaxes the smooth muscle in the walls of blood vessels and has a blood pressure-lowering effect. It performs as well as many conventional drugs but without the harmful side-effects, the herb is hypoglycemic – it can reduce blood sugar .

This herbs can be a good treatment for diabetes, high blood pressure. asthma, arteriosclerosis, chest pain due to heart disease, malaria, fever, stimulates the activity of the stomach, tonic, restore body functions, snake bites and venomous stings.

In fact, this plant is also suitable for treating insect bites. The easiest way is to take a few leaves and crush. Rub in place bitten. But it is more popular in the treatment of high blood pressure and fever. The usual method is that we need to take a few leaves and clean them. Then soak the leaves in a glass of hot water and let it heat water that is warm. After that, drink slowly. It tastes quite bitter, particularly for the first time you take it. But bear in mind, as other herbaceous plants often do not drink very much in a day. Enough to drink once a day.

Planting material can be propagated using seeds. Bile earth can be planted on the ridge with 30 cm spacing between plants in the row and 30 cm between rows. Collection of revenue shall be carried out at 8-10 weeks after planting with trees cut 5 cm from ground level. Fertilizer rates needed for sandy soils is 10 t / ha chicken manure and 500 kg / ha NPK compound fertilizer = 10:10:10. Only 250 kg / ha of semi-organic fertilizer needed for alluvial soils. Dry yield potential is in the range of 1.0-1.5 t / ha.

Generally, bitter herbs have an affinity with the heart, liver and gall bladder. Hempedu Bumi has an amazing broad range of beneficial properties. It is used in a variety of herbal traditions. Found in the Indian Pharmacopoeia, it is prominent in at least 26 Ayurvedic formulas. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Hempedu Bumi is an important "cold property" herb: it is used to rid the body of heat, as in fevers, and to dispel toxins from the body. This herb is also used in SE Asia traditional medicine.

Garcinia Cambogia (Asam Keping/gelugor)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Mon, 7 Oct 2013 15:02:00 +0800

What is garcinia cambogia and is there any benefit to this fruit?

Garcinia cambogia is a subtropical tree that grows on the islands of Indonesia. It belongs to a species of trees that are native to Asia, India, Australia and southern Africa. Garcinias are also called mangosteens, saptrees and "monkey fruit." They thrive in the warm, moist climates of tropical forests.

Garcinia cambogia trees produce small, pumpkin-shaped fruit that are sometimes called assam fruit. Brindleberry, gambooge and tamarind are other common names.

The fruit is usually yellow or green in color, but some trees produce orange or red fruit. In Malaysia knowns as asam keping or gelugor. Garcinia cambogia fruit has a sour flavor which makes it difficult to eat whole like an orange or apple. However, the dried fruit rind produces a flavorful, spicy extract that is popular in traditional cooking. The extract is also used to cure and preserve foods.

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Found across Southeast Asia, India and central Africa, people have long used the dried gambooge rinds for chutneys or curries, and sometimes as an aid for stomach problems. But in the late 1960s, scientists identified a substance in the rind of the fruit called hydroxycitric acid, or HCA, which has some potentially attractive qualities.

Some studies say HCA works, and some say it doesn't. Animal studies of HCA showed that mice taking the substance ate less, lost weight and produced less fat from sugar. The main things that garcinia does is that it suppresses the appetite which means that you will be eating less without noticing it. So it’s an excellent protection against over eating.

Also it manages the seratonin levels. Seratonin is a hormone which tells us when and how much to eat. Every time when our seratonin levels are low we are tempted to eat. In most cases seratonin levels will get low if we are in a bad mood. The only way for us to feel better is to eat something. This is wrong.

Garcinia regulates our seratonin levels and it’s a great ally for emotional eaters. The extract is derived from the rind, which is dried and cured and contains hydroxycitric acid, or HCA, a substance advertised to “block fats and sugar, while suppressing appetite.”

In traditional medicine, healing practitioners use the extract as a stool softener or laxative to treat constipation. Some dietary supplements and energy drinks contain Garcinia cambogia extract.

How Does Garcinia Cambogia Work?

The hydroxycitric acid in Garcinia cambogia halts the production of citrate lyase, an enzyme that is linked to carbohydrate metabolism. Since the enzyme converts excess carbohydrates into fat, stopping the fat-making process is good news for dieters. HCA also stops the production of triglycerides and bad cholesterol, and it may even burn extra carbs.

Dr. Mehmet Oz and other nutrition experts recognize Garcinia cambogia as a “miracle weight loss food.” In some studies, dieters who took HCA supplements lost between two and three times more weight that those who used a placebo. Some experienced mood elevation and sleep improvements after taking Garcinia cambogia.

Garcinia Cambogia Side Effects

Garcinia cambogia supplements are growing in popularity in the diet industry, and they are generally safe for healthy adults. The natural weight loss remedy curbs hunger and stops food cravings, especially for carbohydrates and sweets. In healthy adults, side effects are minimal and rare. However, HCA supplements are not recommended for diabetics, pregnant women, children and Alzheimer’s patients.

Dieters typically take Garcinia cambogia supplements in capsule form. Quality is based on the percentage of hydroxycitric acid contained in each capsule. The experts recommend at least 45 percent HCA for best results. Most dieters take this “miracle supplement” three times a day, about an hour before each meal.

Laksa Leaves (Daun Kesum)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Tue, 2 Apr 2013 23:12:00 +0800

Daun kesum is an essential ingredient

for making laksa. Without daun kesum, there is no way your laksa can be complete. At some places in Malaysia, daun kesum is refered to as "daun laksa" or laksa leaves. The English name for it is most probably Vietnamese mint but not really sure because the real Vietnamese mint is maybe slightly different but still belongs to the same family. Daun kesum is a member of the mint family. The leaves are green and will turn yellow and then brown when they start withering. The stalks will grow and grow if you let them but, trim the tips to let them branch out.

Other than laksa, the leaves can be used as an additional herb when you make nasi ulam, nasi kerabu and when you make asam pedas or other fish dishes. It can be sliced thinly as garnishing, eaten raw or added in sour spicy soup like laksa.

The smell of this minty herb is strong and unmistakable. Therefore, it is good to be used in a fish dish with gravy to counterbalance the fishy smell.

To start planting the herb is very simple indeed.

Get a few stalks of fresh daun kesum from the wet market or if your friend has a herb garden, ask for some stalks from her.

Place the stalks in a jam jar or glass filled with 1 cm of water. Let them sit for a few days until a substantial length of roots can be seen growing at the bottom of the jar.

Transfer your stalks into a container filled with damp earth. Cover about 2.5cm of the stalks in the dirt. Make sure the bottom of the container has some small holes to let excess water to flow out. See, it is easy to grow your own daun kesum.

The herb needs very little maintenance except for enough water to ensure the earth it is planted in is always damp. Oh yes, also plenty of sunlight. You can place the herb pot at the window sill or if you have a balcony, place it there. It grows well in your backyard too.

Fertilizer made of compost is good for the leaves. Old wives have this tip to nourish your herbs: use the bloody water that remained after washing and gutting your fish to spray on the leaves and earth, it is supposed to be full of nutrients for plant. Do this treatment every two weeks or so.

Daun kesum grows very fast. Given good care and enough water, within a week you can already have a bunch filling up your ice-cream tub already.

1. Medicinal Properties

According agree: bearded anti-inflammatory effects downstream gas, stimulate digestion, except welding style, active blood poison.

It has been used in folk such as the following cases:

- Full stomach distension sluggish digestion using a handful of laksa leaves crushed clean drinking water squeezed.

- Nasal flu: a handful of bearded, ginger 3 slices, 20g laksa leaves, 20g shiso leaves 16g marjoram, 16g calamus, 10g chuanxiong and 10g angelica .Combination all of them inside the pot .slow cook about half hour and drink it

- Snake bite treatment: a handful of crushed mustache juiced drink to the victim. Residue cover on where the wound bandaged jack (to do sooner or good results)

- Diarrhoea, abdominal pain due to cold: 16g laksa leaves (dried), white Atractylodes 12g, 16g marjoram, 12g wage Jiang, 10g cinnamon, 4g ginger, 4g baking powder. Pour 2 cup of water, 1 cup of sharp longer. Day in 2 divided doses.

- Feet of drinking water: mustache crushed up on where to get hurt. Or crushed spots where water remains sore. Day 2 time (keep the wound will dry to prevent multiple infections)

- Acne is the stage pointed mustache outline a handful, a few grains of salt. Two crushed, boil up into bands. Day1. This method for all cases of pimples, pressure will is in the early stages. Effects: Anti-inflammatory, blood work, poison.

The best of hibiscus tree

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 13:58:00 +0800

The hibiscus is commonly known in Asia as the shoe flower because it is used to polish shoes. The other names are sorrel, rosemallow and China rose. Hibiscus flowers are the big showy blossoms that grow nearly everywhere in warm, tropical climes. Hibiscus flowers are busy members of the mallow family, there are hundreds of different hibiscus species. The hibiscus is an evergreen bush that is found commonly in warm and tropical regions. There are over two hundred species in this family. The flowers are large and brightly colored, shaped like a horn or trumpet, and some species will change color as they age. The pistil and stamens often protrude dramatically from the horn of the flower, adding to it's reputation as a showy blossom.The flowers do not have any scent however. Hibiscus flowers can be used for decoration, for paper, and as a food product.

There are a variety of colors ranging from bright red to light blue. People often graft plants to get flowers with double colors and increased number of petals.

The Chinese herbal remedies use hibiscus for various treatments. Chinese women make a dye out of flower extract and apply it to the eyebrows and the hair. The flowers are crushed and applied to the hair before taking a shower. This is believed to help remove dandruff and increase hair growth. The flower and leaf extract is mixed with herbal oil and sold.

Hibiscus is used for making ayurvedic and herbal medicines. Ayurveda uses hibiscus parts like leaves, flowers and roots to cure headaches, swelling, menstrual cramps, hair care, colds, venereal disease, induce short term infertility and stimulate menstruation. It is also used as a laxative. People use the hibiscus flowers to make chutneys, soups and curries.

For cooking hibiscus flowers are most commonly use in herbal teas. It has a reputation for a cooling affect on the body. The Pharoahs used hibiscus tea, and today it's still common as a toast in Egyptian weddings. The flowers have a tangy citrus flavor, to make the tea you'll need to boil hibiscus flowers for about 30 minutes, add sugar, and chill. If you're using the large red hibiscus flowers the tea will have a beautiful crimson color. Hibiscus tea is popular in cocktails in the Caribbean, and it can be used to enhance non-alcoholic fruit drinks. Hibiscus flowers can also be used in salads, as an edible garnish, and in candies. Hibiscus tea helps in reducing blood pressure. It can be included in the daily diet of high BP patients. It also helps in decreasing the cholesterol level. The antioxidants and high level of vitamin C in the hibiscus flower protects the body against diseases and gives the skin a special glow. It is also known for its diuretic properties.

There are no serious side effects caused by hibiscus use. Pregnant and lactating mothers should avoid hibiscus intake because it is known to stimulate menstruation. It is always safe to use home made herbal preparations of hibiscus.

But the most popular and conspicuous use for hibiscus flowers is decorative. Tucked behind a pretty girls ear, or set out as a decorative center piece, the large colorful blooms are ubiquitous in warm weather vacation spots. Hibiscus flowers do not require water, the blooms will stay viable until they're time has passed, with or without watering. Hibiscus flowers last only one day, maybe a bit longer if kept in the fridge, but new blossoms are usually just an arm's length away and they do continuously produce a lot of blooms.

Growing Hibiscus

Growing hibiscus is not an arduous task. The occasional gardener can grow hardy hibiscus with good success by following a few simple suggestions. The first task for growing hibiscus is to select an appropriate site. The plant site should have adequate sunlight. The sunlight should be fully available for at least 6 to 8 hours a day.

The second growing condition that needs to be addressed is the soil. Hibiscuses are quite adaptable to soil types. Providing a location with highly organic soil will greatly enhance growth and flower production. To increase organic matter, it may be advisable to mix sphagnum peat moss into the planting soil. After planting, the soil needs to be kept moist constantly for the first year or two. When they are fully established, they can accommodate some drought or excessive moisture.

The hibiscus tree is a rapidly growing tree that needs yearly pruning to promote new growth and prolific flowering. Pruning allows you to remove dead or diseased wood and shaping gives you an elegant tree that you can enjoy for years. Young hibiscus trees can be trained to grow in a box hedge shape if regularly maintained.

Hardy hibiscus plants are not as prone to insect or disease problems. They may have occasional outbreaks of spider mites and Japanese beetles. Controls for these pests may be purchased at the local garden center. Growing hibiscus is a task that is very rewarding, especially when the first filmy, light bloom presents itself in your garden.

Nowadays, people like to shape a Hibiscus Tree. Here is a simple step to do that.....

Step 1

Wipe the blades of your pruning shears with alcohol. Sanitizing hand gel works great and you can find it in grocery stores.

Step 2

Select a long and out-of-proportion branch. Look a third of the way down the branch until you spot a leaf node that is aimed in the direction you want the new growth to grow.

Step 3

Prune off the branch just above this leaf node. Leave 1/4-inch of wood between the cut and the eye.

Step 4

Move on to the next branch, following the above steps, until the hibiscus tree is shaped the way you desire.

Step 5

Trim diseased or dead wood. Follow the branch back until you locate live wood. Keep following the branch down until you notice the next visible leaf node and prune the branch off 1/4-inch above that node.

Simple tips & warnings

Hibiscus are tropical plants and require moisture. Water frequently enough that the dirt in the pot doesn't dry out.

Feed your hibiscus every other week with a fertilizer for acid-loving plants.

Prune hibiscus during the early spring for best results, although new growth can be lightly pruned to retain shape throughout the season.

Hibiscus trees will do well outdoors on a patio or deck for the summer months, but bring the plant inside before frost to winter until the next spring.

Balik Adap (Mussaenda villosa wall)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Fri, 8 Mar 2013 13:29:00 +0800

Scientific name: Mussaenda Villosa wall
Family: Rubiaceae
Common Name: Back adap
Location found: Bushes and swamps

This plant is commonly found in villages around the bushes. It also grows wild in the lowlands and swamps, and it is easy to recognize if it is during flowering. The leaves are composed of a mixture of green leaves and white. The flowers are orange and some white. Most of the people used the leaves as "ulam" (salad).

It is used to treat fever by squeezing the leaves into the water and then this water is used for scarce (wetting) the patient's head to lower his body temperature.

This herb also used as an alternative for herbal steam bath by most elderly people. It so refreshing and removes the body odor...

Cosmos (Ulam Raja)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:15:00 +0800

Botanically known as Cosmos caudatus, it is sometimes called ‘wild cosmos’ by locals here but it is mostly refered to via its Malay name, ulam raja, which translates into ‘king vegetable’. Native to tropical America, it was first introduced to Philippines via the Spaniards, according to Plant Resources of South East Asia (PROSEA). The pinnate to pinnatipartite leaves of this plant are consumed as a leafy vegetable, usually in the raw form, but sometimes also cooked and mixed with coconut sauce and chillies. It constitutes as one of the more common raw plant leaves eaten a salad-like form, called ‘ulam’ by the local Malay community as well as those in Indonesia and Malaysia.

For the uninitiated, the leaves of ulam raja tastes raw and somewhat astringent. When crushed, the leaves emit an odour that is reminiscent of mango. It is considered as a medicinal herb which is believed to possess the ability to cleanse the blood and strengthen bones due to its high calcium content. From my research, a preliminary one which was done with my then postgraduate colleague, the dried leaves of this plants contain high amounts of potent antioxidants.

Chemical Contents

It contains 0.3% of proteins,o.4% of fats and carbohydrates, it also rich in lacsium and vitamin A. Its leaf has high antioxidant (AEAC) property, each 100 grams of the fresh leaves have the same antioxidant property to the 2400 mg of ascorbic L-acid. It contains more than 20 types of antioxidant substances that have been identified in ulam raja. The main anti oxidant substances are due to the existence of protosianidin in dimer, through hecsamer, cuersetin glycoside, chlorogenic acid, neochlorogenic acid, kripto-chlorogenic acid and (+)- catcher.

The plant itself can grow quite tall, up to 3 m tall but is an annual or a short-lived perennial herb. It produces dainty, attractive pink flowers when mature. It should not be confused with the yellow- and orange-flowered Cosmos sulphureus as both species are similar vegetatively and have some vernacular names (randa midang in West Java) in common.

This plant is rather easy to grow. It thrives in a sunny spot outdoors with well draining, fertile and moist soil. It is a big drinker and demands a constant supply of food. Under optimal conditions, it grows quickly, flowers and sets seeds very readily. Plants self seed easily and can quickly become a weed in a garden. Harvesting of leaves can commence once plants are 6 weeks old and subsequent ones can be done every 3 weeks. Regular harvesting will stimulate the production of useful and edible foliage and helps to delay flowering.

Uses

Ulam raja is used in traditional medication because it can repair the blood flow and purify the blood from toxic substances. It also can strengthen the bones. The extract chloroform from its leaf has costunolide, stigmasterol, lutein and bipyridine that cab inhibit the activity of some bacteria and fungi like candida albicans, Bacillus subtilis and also E. Choli.

Torch Ginger (Bunga Kantan)

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 13:57:00 +0800

The torch ginger is an indispensable plant for an ornamental tropical-themed garden or a herb and spice garden. The plant itself makes a great garden landscape plant, its flowers have immense ornamental value and its young flowering shoots are an important spice. Various parts of the torch ginger plant also have folk medicinal uses. Hence, it is not one of those “can-see-but-cannot-eat” plants.

A hardcore tropical perennial plant, the torch ginger is native to areas near home - Malaysia and Indonesia. Botanically it is known as Etlingera elatior, the torch ginger is a member of the true ginger family, Zingiberaceae. It has been formerly classified in various other true ginger genera including Alpinia, Phaeomoria and Nicolaia. The genus is named after the German botanist Andreas Ernst Etlinger while the specific name elatior, in Latin, has the meaning of “taller”.

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The growth habit of the torch ginger is rhizomatous in nature. It is a large-growing herbaceous plant. A mature torch ginger plant is a stately one, commanding much attention. The leafy shoots of a mature specimen can reach a towering height of about 3 meters with a diameter of about 4 cm. The strap-like leaves that line alternately on the leafy shoots can grow up to a length of about 80 cm.

For those of you who have seen the torch ginger flower, the reason why the torch ginger is a popular cut flower in many areas around the world is clearly apparent. Due to the striking resemblance of the inflorescence to a flaming torch, it is not difficult to discern why the common name for this ginger is as such. Besides possessing ornamental value, the young flowering shoot (often called a flower bud) of the torch ginger is an indispensable ingredient used to flavour both rojak and laksa, which are popular dishes in Malaysia and Singapore.

The flowers of the torch ginger are produced in an interesting way. The inflorescence arises from the rhizome beneath the ground like a spear and is protected by a series of bracts. It is supported on a scape that can reach a height of 60 cm to more than a meter. The thickness of the scape can range from 1 to 2.5 cm in diameter. When the final height has been attained, the outer protective bracts gradually open. These outer bracts eventually become reflexed to form the ‘rim’ of the burning torch. This, in turn, reveals a central, pinecone-like structure consisting of many small tight bracts that form the ‘flame’. The individual true flowers appear from between the bracts found on the pinecone-like structure. The beginning and the end of a torch ginger inflorescence – the young flower shoot (left)and the fruiting head, also called the infructescence (right).

When mature, the torch ginger blooms all year round in the tropics. Its inflorescence is available in three main colours, namely, pink, red and white. When not in flower, plants from the three varieties cannot be easily differentiated via their aerial parts as all plants will be similarly green in appearance. However, there is a torch ginger variety that produces red inflorescences that has purplish red leaf undersides and the leafy shoots also take on a similar reddish tinge. In general, the pink variety is the one that is the most floriferous which is followed by the red and white varieties. It is therefore not surprising to rojak fans now why the rojak flower that they are familiar with is usually pink in colour.

The torch ginger also has a place in an eco-garden. The flowers attract the sunbird, its natural pollinator. Whether grown for food use or as a sunbird attractant, one should refrain from using chemical pesticides in the garden. An organically grown garden is generally a safer and healthier place for every living thing that visits it.

Culture

First and foremost, the torch ginger is a huge plant and is not one that can be grown in containers. However, apartment gardeners who love and want to grow this plant need not despair! Go to your nearest community garden to get yourself some space to grow a plant. If there isn’t a community garden, go start one and this is perhaps the most convenient place for you to do a multitude of plants.

The torch ginger thrives in soil that is well-drained and moisture-retentive. Refrain from growing the plant in a waterlogged location. Clay soil which is the common soil type encountered in Singapore is best amended with liberal amounts of organic matter such as compost. Organic materials incorporated into clayey soils will help to open up the structure to improve aeration, improve drainage as well as retain moisture.

The plant would also appreciate a layer of organic mulch consisting of dried leaves or compost around the root zone. Organic mulches offer three main benefits – they help to maintain a cool constant temperate, reduce water loss from the roots during hot and dry weather and provide nutrients for the plant when they break down. Additional feeding will promote growth and should be done using organic fertiliser but it is usually not required.

Plants should be grown in a sheltered spot that is protected from winds as the leafy shoots can become damaged and the leaves get shredded by constant winds. Winds can also overly dry out the plant. In terms of light requirements, the torch ginger plant grows best when it is planted in a semi-shaded location. It can, however, be acclimatised to grow under higher light levels. When exposed to more sunlight, the plant reacts via an interesting manner by growing shorter in stature.

A torch ginger plant is generally not invasive as the clump of leafy shoots is quite tight and advances at quite a manageable pace. However, rhizomes can wonder into unwanted areas in the garden and if one is seen advancing in a wrong direction, it can be stopped at its tracks by breaking it with a shovel and dug up and used as material for propagation. When propagating, it is better to obtain a clump of several leafy shoots rather than one that just consist of one leafy shoot. After a section of the rhizome has been broken and dug up, the leafy shoots can be cut away (to reduce the loss of water from the leaves) and potted up in a well-drained media. Do not bury the rhizome section too deeply as that can cause it to rot. Leave the cutting in a sheltered position until the growth of a new shoot is spotted.

Fortunately, the torch ginger is relatively pest-free and disease-free plant. The most common pest is perhaps the grasshopper that chews along the leaf margins. Sucking insects such as spider mites may congregate on the leaf undersides while aphids may be found feasting on the young shoots and leaves. In general, all these pests rarely do great damage to an established plant but attention must be paid on a newly established, young plant.

Pomegranates Have Many Health Benefits

noreply@blogger.com (Atie) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 13:31:00 +0800

Have you eaten a pomegranate? The fruit features in Greek mythology in the story of Persephone, daughter of the harvest goddess Demeter. Hades, the lord of the underworld, kidnapped the beautiful maiden. Because she ate a few pomegranate seeds before being rescued, she had to spend several months every year in the underworld with him. According to the myth, that?s when the earth was forced to endure winter.

Modern stories about pomegranates are not quite as fanciful as the myth, but there is a lot of buzz lately about the exotic fruit. How much is supported by scientific research?

Pomegranates grow wild from Iran to northern India, but they are cultivated throughout India, the Middle East, southern Europe and California. Scientists in Israel have been conducting research on the health benefits of pomegranates and pomegranate juice for years, and now others have joined in.

What are pomegranates good for? Researchers report that they are rich in antioxidants that can keep bad LDL cholesterol from oxidizing (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, May 2000). This degradation of LDL seems to be an initial step in the development of atherosclerosis. In addition, pomegranate juice, like aspirin, can help keep blood platelets from clumping together to form unwanted clots.

Does this make any difference clinically? More recent research has found that eight ounces of pomegranate juice daily for three months improved the amount of oxygen getting to the heart muscle of patients with coronary heart disease (American Journal of the College of Cardiology, Sept. 2005). Other researchers report that long-term consumption of pomegranate juice may help combat erectile dysfunction (Journal of Urology, July 2005).

Investigators are also excited about the possibility that pomegranate compounds might prevent prostate cancer or slow its growth. In mice, treatment with pomegranate extract delayed the development of tumors and improved survival (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Sept. 26, 2005). Other research reports suggest that pomegranate juice might help reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Pomegranate is one of the foods for which there is currently a health 'buzz'. Specifically, it is claimed that the polyphenols found in pomegranate juice have many health benefits, and that extracts of pomegranate can aid in anti-aging and in preventing heart disease.

Is any of this true? Are the claimed benefits of pomegranate juice or extracts actually real?

The pomegranate is the fruit of a warm climate shrub or small tree which has been cultivated in Asia and around the Mediterranean sea for centuries. It is now grown in many countries around the world where the climate allows. It is a fruit which is fairly difficult and fiddly to peel and eat, with the juicy red 'arils' or seed cases needing to be separated from the pith by hand. It is usually eaten raw.

In folk mythology, pomegranates traditionally have 365 'seeds'. However, modern studies, which have actually counted seeds in individual pomegranates grown in various countries, have shown that the number of seeds can vary from 329 to over 1000! In fact, the bigger a pomegranate is, the more seeds it is likely to have.

The juice (whether fresh or extracted) of the pomegranate contains vitamin C, folic acid, and polyphenols (antioxidants), which are the basis of the health claims for the fruit.

Polyphenols work by removing free radicals from cells, which helps to maintain the human cell function, and they also aid in wound repair, in strengthening the immune system, and by having an anti-inflammatory effect. Perhaps the most famous benefit is that these polyphenols can help to slow skin wrinkling, and so pomegranates are a popular ingredient in anti-aging remedies, both traditional and modern.

Recent research has also shown that pomegranates can also help with osteoarthritis, by slowing the deterioration of cartilage. Another study has presented evidence that pomegranate juice was effective in increasing blood flow to the heart, and so was helpful for patients with ischemic heart disease. This was a study in which test subjects drank 8 ounces of juice every day for three months. It was also shown to reduce arterial plaque, in a patient test group.

In view of these results, many commercial supplements and extracts are becoming available in concentrated or capsule form. The benefits of using pomegranate extracts as a health supplement are that the less useful ingredients of the juice are removed, including the sugar and calories.