LAGUNDI

Scientific
Names

Vitex negundo Linn.

Vitex leucoxylon Blanco.

Common
Name

Lagundi (Ibn., Tag., Bik., P. Bis.)

English
Name

Five-leaved Chaste Tree

Local
and Other
Names

Dabtan (If.), Dangla (Ilk.), Kamalan (Tag.),

Ligei (Bon.), Limo-limo (Ilk.), Sagarai
(Bag.), Turagay (Bis.), Agno-casto (Span.

The Plant
Lagundi is an erect, branched tree or shrub, 2 to 5 meters in height. Its
leaves are usually five-foliate, palmately-arranged, rarely with 3 leaflets. The
middle leaflet is larger than the others and distinctly stalked. The numerous
flowers are blue to lavender, 6 to 7 millimeters long. The fruit is globose,
black when ripe, about 4 millimeters in diameter.
The plant is widely distributed in the Philippines at low and medium altitudes,
in thickets and in waste places; it flowers year-round. It also occurs in tropical
East Africa, Madagascar, India to Japan, and southward through Malaya to
western Polynesia.
Medicinal Uses
The leaves, bark, roots and seeds of Lagundi are used for medicinal purposes
by Filipino traditional healers as an antiseptic. Modern-day use takes
advantage of the plants antitussive and anti-inflammatory properties.
Folkloric Uses
The first record of the use of Lagundi as medicine was made by a priest, who
affirmed that Lagundi leaves and seeds were used by Filipinos to disinfect
wounds and in cleansing ulcers. The leaves are likewise used in aromatic
baths to prevent insect bites. Alternatively, the seeds are boiled in water and
eaten, or the water is drunk, to prevent the spreading of toxin from bites.
Oil prepared with the juice of plant parts can be rubbed onto the
sinuses and to scrofulous sores of the neck. It is found to effect marvelous

cures of sloughing wounds and ulcers. There is a very noteworthy account of

the cure with this oil of an old and deep gangrenous wound in the arm of a
patient. This patient was given up by allopathic doctors after three months of
medical treatment, cure having been considered hopeless without
amputation of the arm.
According to some authors, febrile, catarrhal, and rheumatic affections can
be treated using different preparations of plant plants. A tincture of the rootbark is recommended in cases of rheumatism. The powdered root is
prescribed for hemorrhoids as a demulcent, and also for dysentery. In IndoChina, a decoction of the root is prescribed for intermittent fevers.
The leaves are known to reduce inflammatory and rheumatic swellings of the
joints and swellings of the testes due to gonorrheal epidymitis and
orchitis. They are also effective for sprained limbs, contusions, and leech
bites; the fresh leaves are put into an earthen pot, heated over a fire, and
applied as hot as can be borne without pain; or the leaves are bruised and
applied as a poultice to the affected part. A pillow stuffed with the leaves is
placed under the head for relief of catarrh and headache. A decoction of the
leaves as a warm bath in the puerperal state of women who suffer much
from after-pains has also been described.
Common Kitchen Preparations
Decoction for fever and toothaches: boil 6 tablespoons of the chopped leaves
in 2 glasses of water for 15 minutes; strain and cool. Divide the decoction in
3 parts and take one part every 3-4 hours. For asthma and cough, take 1/4 of
the decoction three times a day. For aromatic bath or sponge bathing: boil 4
handfuls of leaves in a pot of water for 5 minutes; use the lukewarm
decoction for sponge bathing.
Treatment of Cough, Asthma,
Anti-Inflammatory, and Anti-Convulsant Properties
Lagundi has been proven to be an effective antitussive (prepared as a
pleasant-tasting cough syrup) and has been considered as a replacement for
dextromethorphan in the public health system. Studies have shown benefit
through reduction of coughing and relaxation of the bronchial smooth
muscles. As such, the plant is being promoted by the Department of Health
(DOH) for cough and asthma. It is actually one of a few herbs recently
registered with the Bureau of Foods and Drugs (BFAD) in the Philippines as
medicines and is already available locally commercially in tablet form (Ascof
by AlterMed/Pascual Laboratories), teas, and syrup.
The antitussive and anti-asthma effects of Lagundi are attributed to its antiinflammatory activity. Observations from an experimental study revealed
that the fresh leaves of Vitex negundo have anti-inflammatory and painsuppressing activities possibly mediated via prostaglandin synthesis
inhibition, antihistamine, membrane-stabilizing and antioxidant activities.

The antihistamine activity can produce the anti-itching effect claimed in

Ayurveda medicine of the herbal medicine (Dharmasiri et al, 2003).
Another study conducted in India has confirmed the potentiation of antiinflammatory activities of drugs phenylbutazone and ibuprofen byVitex
negundo, indicating that it may be useful as an adjuvant therapy along with
standard antiinflammatory drugs (Tandon and Gupta, 2006).
The same researchers conducted a study in 2005 on the anticonvulsant
activity of Vitex negundo and observed that although the Vitex negundo is
not as effective as standard drugs in protecting against maximal
electroshock seizures in rats, it showed 50% protection in clonic seizures and
24-hour mortality against pentylenetetarazole-induced seizures. Vitex
negundo was also found to potentiate the anticonvulsant action of
diphenylhydantoin and valporic acid, thus it may be useful as an adjuvant
therapy along with standard anticonvulsants and can possibly be used to
lower the requirement of diphenylhydantoin and valporic acid.
References
Tandon VR, Gupta RK. An experimental evaluation of anticonvulsant activity
of Vitex negundo.
Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 2005 Apr;49(2):199-205.
MEDLINE Citations
Tandon VR, Gupta RK. Vitex negundo Linn (VN) leaf extract as an adjuvant
therapy to standard anti-inflammatory drugs
Indian J Med Res. 2006 Oct;124(4):447-50.
PMID: 17159267 [PubMed - indexed for MED
Dharmasiri MG, Jayakody JR, Galhena G, Liyanage SS, Ratnasooriya WD.
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of mature fresh leaves ofVitex
negundo.
J Ethnopharmacol. 2003 Aug;87(2-3):199-206.
PMID: 17159267 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

SAMBONG
Scientific
Names

Blumea balsamifera (Linn.) DC.

Conya balsamifera Linn.

Common Name Sambong (Tag.)

English Names

Blumea Camphor
Ngai Camphor Plant

Local
and Other
Names

Alibum (P. Bis.), Alimon (P. Bis.), Ayoban (Bis.), Bukadkad (S.
L. Bis.), Bukodkud (Bis.), Dalapot (C. Bis.), Gabuen (Bis.),
Gintin-gintin (Bis.), Hamlibon (Bis.), Kaliban (Tagb.), Kalibura
(Tagb.), Kambibon (Bis.), Labulan (Sub.), Lakad-bulan (Bis.,
Sul.), Lalakdan (Bis.), Lakdanbulan (Bis.), Sambun (Sul.),
Sambong (Tag.), Sob-sob (Ilk.), Subusub (Ilk.), Subsob (Ilk.),
Sobosob (Ig.), Takamain (Bag.)

The Plant
Sambong is a tall, softly hairy, half woody, strongly aromaticshrub, 1 to 4
meters high. It has simple, alternate, broadly elongated leaves, 7 to 20
centimeters long, with toothed margin. The plant has two types of discoid
flowers: peripheral ones are tiny and more numerous; central flowers are few
and large. The fruit is dry, single-seeded, 10-ribbed, and hairy at the top.
Sambong is found from northern Luzon to Palawan and Mindanao, in all or
most island provinces. It is usually common in open grasslands and fields at
low and medium altitudes. It is also reported from India to southern China
and through Malaya to the Moluccas. It flowers from February to April. The
leaves are sometimes smoked in Sumatra in place of Indian hemp.
Medicinal Uses
Parts of the plant have folkloric medicinal use as a vulnerary (for the
treatment of wounds), antidiarrheal, antigastralgic, expectorant,
antispasmodic, astringent, and anthelmintic. Recently, the plant has found
new use as a diuretic and in the treatment of renal stones and in the
management of gout. The leaves contain primarily contain oil and camphor.
The leaves are official in the Dutch and Indian Pharmacopeias.
Folkloric Uses
The juice of the powdered leaves is used traditionally in the treatment of
wounds. They can also be applied to the forehead to relieve headache. An
infusion is used as a bath for women in childbirth, while a tea is made from

the leaves is used for stomach pains. A decoction of the leaves can be used
as an antidiarrheal and antigastralgic. The decoction is used also for
aromatic baths in rheumatism.
The plant is in very general use among the Javanese and Chinese as an
expectorant. Several European doctors practicing in Asia in the past had
reported that they had repeatedly employed it in catarrhal affections. There
are reports that the fresh juice of the leaves is dropped into the eyes for
chronic, purulent discharges. Internally, the decoction is both astringent and
anthelmintic. It is given for worms and also in dysentery and chronic uterine
discharges. In the case of fever, a decoction of the leaves is often given, or a
decoction of the leaves and roots together. A lotion made from boiled leaves
is used as a sitz bath for lower back pain (lumbago) and rheumatism, for
bathing women after childbirth, and for soothing the skin of children.
Common Kitchen Preparations
For fever: decoction of roots; boil 2 to 4 handfuls of the leaves. Use the
lukewarm decoction as a sponge bath. For gaseous distention: boil 2
teaspoons of the chopped leaves in 1 cup of water for 5 minutes. Drink the
decoction while warm. Also used for upset stomach. Can also be used for
mothers' bath after childbirth. As diuretic: boil 2 tablespoons of chopped
leaves in 2 glasses of water for 15 minutes. Take half of the decoction after
every meal, 3 times a day.
Treatment of Renal Stones, Hypertension, and Gout
The new use of the medicinal plant is as a diuretic and for dissolution of renal
stones. It can be used in hypertension and fluid retention states. Some
clinical studies, including double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized
studies have shown encouraging results for Sambong to be both safe and
effective in the treatment of kidney stones and hypertension. The National
Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) has promoted the use of this herbal
medicine for many renal patients to avert or delay the need for dialysis or
organ transplantation. It is also being promoted by the Department of Health
(DOH) for this purpose. It is registered with the Bureau of Foods and Drugs
(BFAD) as a medicine, and is available commercially in tablet form (Re-Leaf
by Altermed/Pascual Laboratories)
In a pharmacological study of 96 medicinal plants used in Vietnam for the
treatment of gout and its associated symptoms, Blumea balsamifera was
found to have strong xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity (Nguyen et al,
2004).
MEDLINE Citation
Nguyen MT, Awale S, Tezuka Y, Tran QL, Watanabe H, Kadota S.Xanthine
oxidase inhibitory activity of Vietnamese medicinal plants.
Biol Pharm Bull. 2004 Sep;27(9):1414-21.
PMID: 15340229 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

AMPALAYA
Momordica charantia Linn.
Scientific
Names

Momordica balsamina Blanco.

Momordica cylindrical Blanco.

Common Name Ampalaya (Tag.)

Bitter Gourd
English Names

Local
and Other
Names

Balsam Apple, Balsam Pear, African Cucumber,

Tuberculated Momordica
Amargoso (Span.), Ampalia (Tag.), Apalaya(Tag.), Apalia
(Pamp.), Apape (Ibn.), Apapet (Itn.), Margoso (Tag.), Palia
(Bis., Bon., If.), Pariu (Bik., Ilk., Sul.), Pulia (Sub.), Saligun
(Sul.)

The Plant
Ampalaya is a climbing vine with tendrils growing up to 20 centimeters long.
The leaves are heart-shaped, 5 to 10 centimeters in diameter, cut into 5 to 7
lobes. The male and female yellow flowers are about 15 millimeters long,
long-stalked with pairs of small leaflike bracts at middle or toward base of
stalk. The fruit is fleshy and green, oblong with pointed ends, ribbed and
wrinkled, bursting when mature to release seeds. Seeds are flat with
ruminated margins.

It is a year-round vegetable growing in various places from sea level to

higher altitudes. Wild forms are found in wastelands at low and medium
altitudes. In the Philippines both the wild (small, ovoid and bitter fruit) and
the cultivated form (with elongated and oblong fruit) are eaten. The fruit of
the wild form is usually roasted over fire and eaten with salt. That of the
cultivated form is eaten as a vegetable with shrimps or meat; sliced, mashed
with salt, and washed, it is made into salad with onions and vinegar.
Nutritional Value
Analyses of the fruit show that it is a good source of iron and calcium, and a
good source of phosphorus. The fruit and leaves are also excellent sources of
vitamin B (sometimes the tender shoots and the leaves are eaten as a
vegetable aside from the fruit). It has twice the amount of beta carotene in
broccoli and twice the calcium content of spinach. Despite its bitter taste,
extracts from plant parts has become a popular drink for boosting vigor. In
fact, the more bitter, the better, as it is believed that the bitterness is
proportionate to its potency.
Medicinal Uses
The plant has astringent, vulnerary, antiparasitic, anthelmintic, purgative,
emetic, antipyretic, cooling and tonic properties, and is traditionally used for
these purposes.
Folkloric Uses
The leaf juice is used for cough and as a purgative and anthelminthic to
expel intestinal parasites, and for healing wounds. The vine or the juice of
leaves can be used as a mild purgative for children. Decoction of roots and
seeds has been used for urethral discharges.
Pounded leaves are used for scalds and an infusion of leaves or leaf juice can
be used for fevers. The whole plant, pulverized, is good externally applied in
leprosy and malignant ulcers. It is common to pound the leaves and apply
them to skin disease in India, Malaya, and elsewhere in Asia. They are also
applied in cases of burns and scalds and as a poultice for headaches. Some
authors report that the olive or almond oil infusions of the fruit are applied to
chapped hands, hemorrhages, and burns, and that the mashed fruit is used
in the preparation of poultices.
It is reported that juice expressed from the green fruit can be given for
chronic colitis. It is also found to be good for bacillary dysentery. It is
considered tonic and stomachic, and is useful in rheumatism and gout and in
diseases of the spleen and liver. It probably acts as an astringent. In India,
this astringent is applied externally to hemorrhoids. The sap of the leaves is
used as a parasiticide, and the fruit, when macerated in oil, as a vulnerary.
Common Kitchen Preparations
Steam ampalaya tops (upper four leaves) and eat half a cup twice daily. As a

decoction, boil six tablespoons of finely chopped leaves in two glasses of

water over low fire (for 15 minutes). Drink 1/3 cup, three times a day, 30
minutes before meals. Use clay or enamel pots only.
Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus and Management of Dyslipidemia
Ampalaya is an herb that has recently gained international recognition for its
benefits in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Thus the plant is increasingly
recommended as an adjunct or supplement to traditional therapeutic
regimens for this condition. It is available commercially in tablet form
(Amargozin by Altermed/Pascual Laboratories), in capsule formulation,
(Charagen Ampalaya), and as teas.
Recent experimental investigation (2007) with respect to the mechanism of
action of Momordica charantia extract in diabetic rats suggest that it
enhances insulin secretion by the islets of Langerhans, reduces glycogenesis
in liver tissue, enhances peripheral glucose utilisation and increases serum
protein levels. Furthermore, treatment restores the altered
histological architecture of the islets of Langerhans. Hence, the biochemical,
pharmacological and histopathological profiles of Momordica
charantia extract clearly indicate its potential antidiabetic activity and other
beneficial effects in amelioration of diabetes associated complications.
Further, an evaluation of the plants antilipidemic activity in old obese rats
demonstrated significant lowering of cholesterol and triglyceride levels while
elevating HDL-cholesterol levels. Also, the extract lowered serum lipids in
diabetic rats, suggesting its usefulness in controlling metabolic alterations
associated with diabetes (Fernandes et al, 2007).
MEDLINE Citation
Fernandes NP, Lagishetty CV, Panda VS, Naik SR. An experimental evaluation
of the antidiabetic and antilipidemic properties of a standardized Momordica
charantia fruit extract.
BMC Complement Altern Med. 2007 Sep 24;7:29.
PMID: 17892543 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

PANSIT-PANSITAN
Peperomia pellucida Linn.
Scientific
Names

Piper pellucida Linn., Micropiper pellucidumMiq., Peperomia

hymenophylla Miq., Peperomia bilineata Miq., Micropiper
tenellum Klotz

Common
Names

Pansit-pansitan

Ulasiman-bato
English Name
Local
and Other
Names

Ulasimang-bato, Ikmo-ikmohan, Sida-sida, Sinaw-sinaw,

Tagulinaw, Tangon-tangon

The Plant
Pansit-pansitan is an annual herb; it is shallow-rooted, may reach 40
centimeters high, with succulent stems. Leaves are alternate, heart-shaped
and turgid, as transparent and smooth as candle wax. Tiny dotlike flowers
scatter along solitary and leaf-opposed stalks (spike); naked; maturing
gradually from the base to the tip; turning brown when ripe. Numerous tiny
seeds drop off when mature and grow easily in clumps and groups in damp
areas.
The herb favors shady, damp and loose soil. It often grows in groups in nooks
in the garden and yard and conspicuously in rocky parts of canals and stone
walls. The leaves and stems may be eaten as vegetable. In salads, the fresh
plant has the crispness of carrot sticks and celery.
Medicinal Uses
Traditionally, the plant is used for the treatment of infected wounds and for
the management of a variety of dermatologic conditions. It is similarly used
in Tropical West Africa for this purpose. Recently, the anti-inflammatory
activity of the plant has been studied, especially in relation to the treatment
of arthritis and gout.
Folkloric Uses
Infusion and decoction of leaves and stems are used for gout and arthritis
even by traditional healers. Externally, the plant is used as a facial rinse for
acne and complexion problems. Pounded whole plant is used as warm
poultice for boils, pustules and pimples.
Common Kitchen Preparations
Preparation for arthritis: the leaves and stems of the fresh plant may be
eaten as salad. Or, as an infusion, put 20 centimeters of plant material in 2
glasses of boiling water; half a cup of this infusion is taken morning and
evening.

Treatment of Arthritis and Gout,

Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesia
The plant belongs to the "preferred list" of Philippine medicinal plants; it is
being studied for its use in the treatment of arthritis and gout. An aqueous
extract of Peperomia pellucida when tested for anti-inflammatory and
analgesic activity in rats and mice concluded that the plant has antiinflammatory activity (based on interference with prostaglandin synthesis,
as confirmed by the arachidonic acid test), and analgesic activity.
Furthermore, the LD(50) showed thatPeperomia pellucida had very low
toxicity (de Ftima Arrigoni-Blank, 2004).
MEDLINE Citations
de Ftima Arrigoni-Blank M, Dmitrieva EG, Franzotti EM, Antoniolli AR,
Andrade MR, Marchioro M. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity
ofPeperomia pellucida (L.) HBK (Piperaceae).
J Ethnopharmacol. 2004 Apr;91(2-3):215-8.
PMID: 15120441 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

BALBAS-PUSA
Scientific
Names

Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq.

Common
Names

Balbas-pusa (Tag.)

English Name

Cats Whisker

Local
and Other
Names

Kabling-parang (Tag.)

Ocimum aristatum Blume, Orthosiphon stamineus Benth.

Kabling-gubat (Tag.)

Indian kidney tea (Engl.)

The Plant
Balbas-pusa is a slender, smooth or hairy undershrub, 30 to 60 centimeters
high. Leaves are in distant pairs, narrowed into the stalk, ovate, 5 to 10
centimters long, pointed at both ends, with coarsely-toothed margins. The
flowers are borne in very lax racemes. The calyx is bell-shaped, with a naked
throat and two slender lower teeth. The corolla is 2.5 centeimeters long,
smooth, white or purplish, slender in the tube, and thrice as long as the
calyx. Nutlets are oblong and compressed.
The plant is found in thickets, at low and medium altitudes in the provinces
of Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Bulacan, and Rizal Provinces in
Luzon; and in Coron, Palawan. It occurs also in India through Malaya to
tropical parts of Australia.
Medicinal Uses
The leaves contain a high percentage of potassium salts (0.7 grams in 100
grams of fresh leaves). From dried leaves, a small amount of volatile oil and
a bitter alkaloid, orthosiphonin, is found. The leaves are official in the
Pharmacopoeia of Netherland. Traditional folkloric use includes diuresis.
Recently, the plant has been studied for its antihypertensive effects.
Folkloric Uses
A decoction of leaves is traditionally used for kidney and bladder problems
and other afflictions of the urinary tract, due to its diuretic effect. It is
similarly used in the treatment of diseases of the kidney and bladder in Java
and Malaysia, and in Holland and France. The high potassium content and
the orthosiphonin are postulated to act on the kidneys.
Antihypertensive Action
Recent studies isolating methylripariochromene A (MRC) from the leaves

of Orthosiphon aristatus indicate that the plant or its MRC component

possesses some actions related to a decrease in blood pressure (vasodilating
action, a decrease in cardiac output, and diuretic action) when administered
to stroke-prone hypertensive rats. These studies confirm the traditional use
of the plant in Javanese traditional medicine for the management of
hypertension and for diuresis (Matsubara et al, 1999 and Ohashi et al, 2000).
MEDLINE Citations
Matsubara T, Bohgaki T, Watarai M, Suzuki H, Ohashi K, Shibuya H.
Antihypertensive actions of methylripariochromene A fromOrthosiphon
aristatus, an Indonesian traditional medicinal plant.
Biol Pharm Bull. 1999 Oct;22(10):1083-8.
PMID: 10549860 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Ohashi K, Bohgaki T, Shibuya H. [Antihypertensive substance in the leaves of
kumis kucing (Orthosiphon aristatus)in Java Island]
Yakugaku Zasshi. 2000 May;120(5):474-82. Review. Japanese.
PMID: 10825811 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

LUYANG DILAW
Scientific
Names

Curcuma longa Linn.

Curcuma xanthorrhiza Naves

Common Name Luyang Dilaw (Tag.)

English Name

Long Tumeric

Local
and Other
Names

Angay (Pamp.), Dilaw (Tag.), Dulaw (S.L. Bis.), Kalabaga

(Bis.), Kalawag (Mbo., Bis.), Kalauag (Mbo., Bis.), Kinamboy
(Bis.), Kinamboi (Bis.), Kulalo (Bis.), Kulyaw (Ilk.), Kunig
(Ilk.), Kunik (Ibn.), Lampuyang (P. Bis.), Lawag (Sub.),
Pangar (Pamp.), Pangas (Pamp.), Parak (Kuy.), Salampawyan
(Bag.), Salampauyan (Bag.)

The Plant
The plant is leafy, 1 to 1.5 meters tall and with 5 to 6 leaves. The rhizome is
bright yellow inside, thick and cylindric. Leaves are green, the blade oblong,
30 to 45 centimeters long and 10 to 15 centimeters wide. The petioles are as
long as the blade. Flowers have a peduncle 15 centimeters or more in length
and borne within the tuft of leaves. There are spikes 10 to 20 centimeters in

length and about 5 meters in diameter. Floral bracts are pale green, ovate, 3
to 4 cm long, coma bracts tinged with pink. Flowers pale yellow, as long as
the bracts.
The plant is widely distributed in the Philippines in and about towns,
sometimes in open waste places and sometimes planted. The utilized part,
the rhizome, can be collected the whole year round. Luyang Dilaw rhizomes
are commonly sold in the Manila markets, and are used as a condiment, as
an ingredient of curry powder, and for coloring food and other materials.
Turmeric is one of the best known of material dyes, being used for dyeing
silk, wool, and cotton.
Medicinal Uses
The rhizome contains volatile, fat, starch, resin, and curcumin pigment. It is
pungent and bitter tasting, warming, thus is said to improve Qi circulation in
traditional Chinese medicine. The plant is believed to have antioxidant, antiinflammatory, cholesterol-lowering, and anti-carcinogenic activity. Its antiinflammatory activity has been compared to topical hydrocortisone and has
recently been studied to treat gastritis and gastric ulcers. The plant is
approved by German health authorities for the treatment of dyspeptic
complaints.
The rhizomes have been reported official in the following Pharmacopoeias:
Austrian, Belgian, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Indian, Mexican,
Norwegian, Rumanian, Russian, Serbian, Spanish, Swedish, Swiss, United
States, and Venezuelan.
Folkloric Uses
The plant is traditionally used for fevers, dysentery, abdominal pain,
flatulence, abdominal spasm, and arthritis. For these indications, a decoction
of the rhizome is taken as tea. Other uses include the treatment of menstrual
irregularities, as an anti-contusion and analgesic for its associated painful
swelling. Crushed rhizome can be applied as an antiseptic for wounds.
Externally, rhizomes can also be applied to insect bites, ringworm, bleeding.
In India, the juice of the fresh rhizome is applied externally to recent wounds,
bruises, and leech-bites. Mixed with gingerly oil, it is applied to the body to
prevent skin eruptions. Turmeric paste mixed with a little lime and saltpeter
and applied hot is a popular application to sprains and bruises. In smallpox
and chickenpox a coating of turmeric powder or thin paste is applied to
facilitate the process of scabbing. Other reports indicate that the plant can
be used for ringworm and other parasitic skin diseases, in purulent
conjunctivitis, in catarrhal and purulent ophthalmia, and in neuralgia and
rheumatism.
Traditional Chinese medicine dictates that the plant improves Qi (chi)
circulation. In Chinese parlance, Qi means 'spirit.' In this system, good health

is synonymous with free-flowing energy through meridian pathways. A

blocked Qi flow is associated with disease or ill-health. Luyang dilaw is said
to improve circulation, thus avoiding blocked Qi and disease states.
Common Kitchen Preparations
For wounds and swelling as ointment: Wash the unpeeled ginger. Chop the
rhizomes to fill half a glass of water. Saut with one glass of coconut oil on
low heat for five minutes. Place in a clean bottle and label. As antiseptic for
wounds: Extract juice of the fresh rhizome and apply directly on the wound
or swelling. For gas pain in adults: Decoction from thumb-sized rhizome in a
glass of water reduced to half.
Treatment
of
Dyspepsia
and
Peptic
Ulcers
It was observed in recent studies that when Curcuma longa extract was
administered to rats, it reduced gastric acid secretion and protected against
the formation of gastric mucosal lesions. Findings suggest that the extract
from Curcuma longa specifically inhibits gastric acid secretion by blocking H2
histamine receptors in a competitive manner (Kim et al, 2005).
In a randomized, double-blind study, it showed significant alleviation of the
symptoms of acid dyspepsia, flatulent dyspepsia or atonic dyspepsia. Two
other clinical trials tested C. longa in the treatment of peptic ulcers and
demonstrated that administered orally it promoted ulcer healing and
decreased abdominal pain.1
Anti-inflammatory Properties
The major active component of Curcuma longa, cucurmin, was also
investigated as an anti-inflammatory drug in two double blind studies with
phenylbutazone, and was found to significantly improve symptoms of
rheumatoid arthritis and reduce post-operative inflammation.1
Treatment of Alzheimers Disease
Dietary cucurmin was also found to decrease the biomarkers of inflammation
and oxidative damage and to decrease amyloid plaque burden in the brain
and amyloid beta-induced memory deficits in animal models of Alzheimers
disease. Cucurmin injected peripherally was demonstrated to cross the
blood-brain barrier in an animal model of Alzheimers disease, but it is not
yet known if cucurmin taken orally can cross the blood brain barrier and
inhibit the progression of Alzheimers disease in humans. The results are
nevertheless promising and several human clinical trials are currently under
way. 2
References
WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Vol. 1, 1999, World Health
Organization, Geneva.Higdon, J. Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State
University. 2006.lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/phytochemicals/curcumin

MEDLINE Citation
Kim DC, Kim SH, Choi BH, Baek NI, Kim D, Kim MJ, Kim KT.
Curcuma longa extract protects against gastric ulcers by blocking H2
histamine receptors.
Biol Pharm Bull. 2005 Dec;28(12):2220-4.
PMID: 16327153 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

TAKIP-KOHOL
Scientific
Name

Centella asiatica Linn.

Hydrocotyle asiatica Linn.

Common
Name

Takip-kohol

English
Name

Pennyworth, Gotu Kola, Asian pennywort,

Indian pennywort, Indian hydrocotyle

Local
and Other
Names

Hahanghalo (C. Bis.), Panggaga (Sub.),

Pispising (Bon.), Tagaditak (Iv.), Takip-suso
(Tag.), Taingan-daga (Tag.), Tapigan-daga
(Tag.), Yahong-yahong (S-L. Bis.), Chihsueh Ts'ao (Chin.

The Plant
Takip-kohol is a prostrate, creeping, sparingly hairy or nearly smooth
perennial herb. The stems are rooting at the nodes, delicate, slender and
creeping. The leaves are rounded to reniform, 2 to 5 centimeters wide,
horizontal, more or less cupped, rounded at the tip, and kidney-shaped or
heart-shaped at the base, palmately veined, margins undulate-crenate, with
the rounded lobes often overlapping. Petioles are erect, 3 to 20 centimeters
long. Flowers are purple and axillary, ovate, and about 1 centimeter long.
Peduncles occur in pairs or threes, less than 1 centimeter long and usually
bear 3 sessile flowers. The plant flowers from October to May.
The plant is found in gardens, thickets, open, damp grasslands, on rice paddy
banks, and streams throughout the Philippines. The entire plant can be used
for medicinal purposes and can be gathered throughout the year. It is a rich
source of Vitamin B and can be eaten as a salad or a vegetable dish.

Medicinal Use
Chemical analysis of the plant shows the presence of vallarine, high
vitamin B content in the leaves and roots, and a miscellany of other
constituents such as carbohydrates, resins, proteins, ash, alkali, alkaline
salts, phosphates, and tannins. The leaves are official in the following
Pharmacopoeias: Dutch, French, Mexican, Spanish, and Venezuelan, Indian.
The stem and leaves are official in the Materia Medica of the ancient
Chinese.
Folkloric Uses
The plant has been used in the treatment of infectious hepatitis, measles,
respiratory tract infections - colds, tonsillitis, laryngopharyngitis, bronchitis.
For these indications, fresh or dried material is taken in the form of
decoction. As a counterirritant, the plant is pound, mixed with vaseline or oil
and applied over affected area as poultice. In India and Fiji, roots are used for
foreskin inflammation, to improve blood circulation, to treat bloating,
congestion and depression.
The leaves of Takip-kohol have been widely regarded as having tonic and
stimulant properties and have been recommended for many complaints. The
plant is reputed to have a direct action on lowering blood pressure. It is also
known as a rejuvenating medicament. For this, the leaves are sometimes
eaten raw, but more usually a decoction or tea is made from them.
According to some reports, judging from its physiological action, the drug
should be principally valuable as a stimulant to the cutaneous circulation in
skin diseases; and, indeed, for this purpose it is chiefly employed. It is thus
useful in the treatment of chronic and obstinate eczema. It has also been
prescribed with excellent results in cases of secondary and tertiary syphilis
accompanied by gummatous infiltration and ulceration, in chronic and
callous ulcers, as a stimulant to healthy mucous secretion in infantile
diarrhea, in cases of scrofulous ulceration and enlargement of glands and
abscess, and in chronic rheumatism.
Cognitive-enhancing, Neuroprotective, and Anti-oxidant Properties
The plant is considered to be a brain and memory stimulant, and may be
used for Alzheimer's disease and senility. In one study, Centella asiatica has
been described as possessing central nervous system activity, such as
improving intelligence. In addition, the study confirms the cognitiveenhancing and anti-oxidant properties of extracts of the plant in normal rats.
These findings are significant since oxidative stress or an impaired
endogenous anti-oxidant mechanism is an important factor that has been
implicated in Alzheimer's disease and cognitive deficits seen in the elderly
humans (Veerendra and Gupta, 2003). As such, the plant has been
recognized by scientists as a nootropic, cognitive, and neuroprotective with
fewer undesirable effects and the same effectiveness as the classic therapy

for Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia (Cervenka and Jahodr,
2006).
Treatment of Burns, Wounds, Ulcers, and Venous Insufficiency
Extracts of the Centella asiatica applied topically have been shown to
effectively treat second- and third-degree burns, chronic infected skin ulcers,
indolent leg ulcers, and perforated leprotic leg lesions, and accelerate
healing in post-surgical and post-trauma wounds. Oral administration of
extracts of Centella asiatica have been used to successfully treat peptic and
duodenal ulcers, with 93% improvement in subjective symptoms and with
healed ulcers in 73% of subjects evidenced endoscopically and
radiologically. Centella asiatica extracts taken orally also significantly
improved venous distension and edema in patients suffering from venous
insufficiency.
The WHO monograph recommends an oral dose of 0.33-0.68g or by oral
infusion of similar amount three times daily.
References
WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Vol. 1, 1999, World Health
Organization, Geneva.
MEDLINE Citations
Cervenka F, Jahodr L. [Plant metabolites as nootropics and cognitives]
Ceska Slov Farm. 2006 Sep;55(5):219-29. Review. Czech.
PMID: 17128592 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Veerendra Kumar MH, Gupta YK. Effect of Centella asiatica on cognition and
oxidative stress in an intracerebroventricular streptozotocin model of
Alzheimer's disease in rats.
Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol. 2003 May-Jun;30(5-6):336-42.
PMID: 12859423 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

BANABA
Scientific
Names

Lagerstroemia speciosa Linn.

Munchausia speciosa Linn., Lagestroemia
reginae Roxb., Lagerstroemia flos-reginae Retz.

Common Name Banaba (Tag.)

English Name
Local
and Other

Agaro (Sbl.), Bugarom (S. L. Bis.), Duguam (S. KL. Bis.),

Kauilan (P. Bis.), Makablos (Pang.), Mitla (Pamp.), Nabulong

Names

(Neg.), Pamalauagon (S. L. Bis.), Pamarauagon (S. L. Bis.),

Parasabukung (Sub.), Tabangau (Ibn., Neg.), Tauagnau (Ibn

The Plant
Banaba is a deciduous tropical flowering tree, 5 to 10 meters high, but
sometimes growing to a height of 20 meters. The leaves are large, spatulate,
oblong to elliptic-ovate, 2-4 inches in width, 5-8 inches in length. The plant
sheds its leaves the first months of the year. Before shedding, the leaves are
bright orange or red during which time it is thought to contain higher levels
of corrosolic acid. Flowers are racemes, pink to lavender; flowering from
March to June. After flowering, the tree bears large clumps of oval nutlike
fruits.
The plant grows wild and is widely distributed in the Philippines, in the
secondary forests at low and medium altitudes. It is also usually cultivated
for its beautiful flowers. It is also reported to occur in India to southern China
and southward through Malaya to tropical Australia.
Medicinal Uses
The plant is rich in tannin; the fruit has 14 to 17 %; leaves, 13 %; bark, 10%.
Traditionally, the plant is used in the treatment of stomach ailments.
Recently, the plants corrosolic acid content is being studied for glucose
lowering effect.
Folkloric Use
Roots have been used for a variety of stomach ailments. Leaf decoction is
used for diabetes; also as a diuretic and purgative. For this, a decoction of
old leaves and dried fruit (dried from one to two weeks) is mixed to 50 grams
to a pint of boiling water; 4 to 6 cups daily has been used for diabetes. Old
leaves and ripe fruit are preferred, which are believed to have greater
glucose lowering effect. A decoction of 20 grams of old leaves or dried fruit
in 100 cc of water was found to have the equivalent effect to that of 6 to 7.7
units of insulin.
Bark decoction has been used for the treatment of diarrhea. The bark,
flowers and leaves are used to facilitate bowel movements. A decoction of
fruits or roots can be gargled for aphthous stomatitis, while a decoction of
leaves and flowers can be used for fevers and as diuretic. Leaf decoction or
infusion is usually used for bladder and kidney inflammation, dysuria, and

other urinary complaints.

Treatment of Diabetes and Obesity
Banaba is being studied for its application in the treatment of diabetes. Its
ability to lower blood sugar is attributed to its corrosolic acid content. The
plant is commercially available as tablets, extracts, capsules, powders and
teas.
Studies in mice suggest that extracts of Lagerstroemia speciosa have
beneficial effects on control of the level of plasma glucose in non-insulin
dependent diabetes mellitus, for example, hemoglobin A1C was found to be
suppressed at the end of the experiment in the group treated with Banaba
extract (Kakuda et al, 1996). Mice fed with Banaba extract also showed a
significant decrease, to 65% of the control level in total hepatic lipid
contents. This decrease was attributed by the studies to a reduction in the
accumulation of triglyceride. These results suggest that Lagerstroemia
speciosa has antiobesity effects as well (Suzuki et al, 1999).
MEDLINE Citations
Kakuda T, Sakane I, Takihara T, Ozaki Y, Takeuchi H, Kuroyanagi M.
Hypoglycemic effect of extracts from Lagerstroemia speciosa L. leaves in
genetically diabetic KK-AY mice
Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 1996 Feb;60(2):204-8.
Suzuki Y, Unno T, Ushitani M, Hayashi K, Kakuda T. Antiobesity activity of
extracts from Lagerstroemia speciosa L. leaves on female KK-Ay mice
J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 1999 Dec;45(6):791-5.
PMID: 10737232 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

MALUNGGAY
Scientific
Names

Moringa oleifera Lam.

Moringa nux-ben Perr., Moringa
pterygospermaGaertn., Guilandina moringa Linn.

Common Name Malunggay (Tag.)

English Names
Local
and Other
Names

Ben Oil Tree

Horseradish Tree
Arunggai (Pang.), Balungai (P. Bis.), Dool (Bik.), Kamalongan
(P. Bis.), Kalamungai (C. Bis.), Kalungai (Bik., Bis., Tag.),
Kalunggay (Bik.), Kamalungai (Pamp., Tag.), Komkompilan
(Ilk.), Molongai (Tag.), Malunggue (Pamp.), Malungit (Pamp.,

Bis.), Marogoi (Sbl.), Marugaai (Ilk., Ibn.)

The Plant
Malunggay grows as high as 9 meters; it has a soft, white wood and a corky,
gummy bark. Root has the taste of horseradish. Each compound leaf
contains 3-9 very thin leaflets dispersed on a compound (3 times pinnate)
stalk. Flowers are white and fragrant, producing long, pendulous, 9-ribbed
pods.
The plant was probably introduced from Malaya or some other part of
tropical Asia in prehistoric times. It is now grown throughout the Philippines
in settled areas as a backyard vegetable and as a border plant. It is drought
resistant and grows in practically all kinds of well-drained soils. The plant
conserves water by shedding leaves during the dry season.
Nutritional Use
The flowers, leaves and pods can be eaten as a vegetable. It is a good source
of calcium, iron, phosphorus and vitamins A, B and C. The plant
comparatively has 7 times the vitamin C in oranges, 4 times the calcium and
twice the protein in milk, 4 times the vitamin A in carrots, and 3 times the
potassium in bananas.
Medicinal Uses
The major component is ben oil (36%). The seeds are official in the French
Pharmacopoeia and the seed oil in the French and Danish Pharmacopoeias.
Folkloric use of Malunggay is recognized for a dozen of conditions;
meanwhile, the plant is being studied extensively recently for its antioxidant
effects.
Folkloric Uses
A decoction of leaves is used for hiccups, asthma, gout, back pain,
rheumatism, wounds and sores. Young leaves increases the flow of milk, and
nutritional supplementation is usually recommended to lactating mothers.
Pods are used for intestinal parasitism. Leaves and fruit are used for
constipation. A decoction of boiled roots is used to wash sores and ulcers,
while a decoction of the bark may be used for excitement and restlessness.
Pounded roots can be used as poultice for inflammatory swelling. Juice of
roots is used for otalgia. A decoction of roots is used as gargle for hoarseness
and sore throat. Seeds have been prescribed for hypertension, gout, asthma,
hiccups, and as a diuretic. For rheumatic complaints, a decoction of seeds or

powdered roasted seeds can be applied to the affected area. The juice of the
root with milk is used for asthma, hiccups, gout, and lumbago. Poultice of
leaves is applied for glandular swelling. Pounded fresh leaves mixed with
coconut oil can be applied to wounds and cuts. The flowers boiled with soy
milk are thought to have aphrodisiac quality.
Antioxidant Activity and Prevention of Carcinogenesis
In studies using hepatocytes as a free radical model, it was shown that
administration of Moringa oleifera extract and silymarin significantly
decreased hepatic marker enzymes and lipid peroxidation with a
simultaneous increase in the level of anti-oxidants (Ashok Kumar and Pari,
2003).
In another study identifying promising sources of antioxidants, the leaves
of Moringa oleifera were found to have kaempferol, and antioxidant
properties (Bajpai et al, 2005).
Other findings are suggestive of a possible chemopreventive potential
of Moringa oleifera drumstick extract against chemical carcinogenesis. The
modulating effect of the plants components on drug metabolising Phase I
(Cytochrome b(5) and Cytochrome p(450) ) and Phase II (Glutathione-Stransferase) enzymes, anti-oxidant enzymes, glutathione content and lipid
peroxidation are postulated to be the mechanism for this chemopreventive
action of Malunggay (Bharali et al, 2003).
MEDLINE Citations
Bharali R, Tabassum J, Azad MR. Chemomodulatory effect of Moringa oleifera,
Lam, on hepatic carcinogen metabolising enzymes, antioxidant parameters
and skin papillomagenesis in mice.
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2003 Apr-Jun;4(2):131-9.
PMID: 12875626 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Ashok Kumar N, Pari L. Antioxidant action of Moringa oleifera Lam.
(drumstick) against antitubercular drugs induced lipid peroxidation in rats.
J Med Food. 2003 Fall;6(3):255-9.
PMID: 14585192 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Bajpai M, Pande A, Tewari SK, Prakash D.
Phenolic contents and antioxidant activity of some food and medicinal plants.
Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2005 Jun;56(4):287-91.
PMID: 16096138 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

VIRGIN COCONUT OIL

Scientific
Names

Cocos nucifera Linn.

Cocos mamillaris Blanco.

Common Name VCO (Virgin Coconut Oil)
English Names

VCO (Virgin Coconut Oil)

Local
and Other
Names

Coco (Span.), Lubi (C.Bis., P. Bis.), Ogot (Ibn.), Gira-gira

(Sbl.), Ponlaing (Sub.), I-ing (It.), Punlaing (Yak.), Iniug (Ibn.),
Ugut (Pamp.), Lobi (S.L. Bis.)

The Plant
The plant is an unarmed, erect, tall palm reaching a height of 25 meters. The
trunk is stout, 30-50 centimeters in diameter, thickened at the base; marked
with annular scars. The leaves are crowded at the apex, 3 to 6 meters long,
with a stout petiole. Leaflets are bright green, numerous, linear-lanceolate,
60 to 100 centimeters long. Spadix is about 1 meter long, erect, drooping,
simply branched. Fruit is variable in size, shape and color, obovoid to
subglobose, often obscurely 3-angled, 15-25 centimeters long. Endosperm
forms a thick layer of fleshy substance adherent to the testa which is
adherent to the shell. The shell is covered by a fibrous husk. It is extensively
cultivated in the Philippines.
It is considered the most versatile of all palms with its wide range of utility:
as lumber, food, drink, alcohol, vinegar, thatching material, manufacture of
baskets, rope, hats, brooms; shell for making charcoal and utensils as cups,
bowls, spoons; oil for food, massage, and as base for medications for
external use; cooking, illumination, soap making; it is also decorative for
celebrations and religious rituals.
Medicinal Uses
The flesh of the fruit and its oil are used in the treatment of many conditions.
Water from the young coconut has been used as a substitute for dextrose
infusion in emergent situations during World War II. Recently, the use of
Virgin Coconut Oil, now available commercially as refined oil has been
advocated for its nutritional and anti-dyslipidemic properties.
Folkloric Uses
The oil is used traditionally for dandruff: massaged onto the scalp and left
overnight, the oil reduces flakes and itching. For dry skin, the oil is massaged
onto the affected area. The oil is also much used in the Philippines as a
vehicle for liniments in skin medicines and for other external applications. It
is also used for strengthening the hair; hence it is used with gogo to make a
shampoo. It is much used in India as a local application in alopecia.

Nutritional Use
Increasingly popular, natural coconut oil is now being touted as the most
beneficial of all oils. Although high in saturated fat, it is the richest natural
source of health-promoting MCFAs (or medium-chain fatty acids). The
recommendation is to take 3 teaspoons (about 50 grams) of coconut oil
daily, estimated from the amount equivalent to the MCFAs found in human
breast milk, known to be effective in nourishing and protecting infants.
Highly refined coconut oil may be used as a substitute for the imported
Wesson oil or olive oil. The high-grade oil is nearly colorless, has a bland
taste, and gives off the peculiar odor of coconuts. It consists largely of the
glyceryl ester of lauric and myristic acids and contains also a number of
other fats which are the glyceryl esters of still other fatty acids, such as
caproic, capryllic, capric, and oleic acids. The oil is official in the Dutch,
German, Indian, Mexican, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Venezuelan
Pharmacopoeias.
Antioxidant and Anti-dyslipidemic Properties
In one study, virgin coconut oil was shown to have a beneficial effect in
lowering lipid components compared to copra oil. It reduced total cholesterol,
triglycerides, phospholipids, LDL, and VLDL cholesterol levels and increased
HDL cholesterol in serum and tissues. The polyphenol fraction of virgin
coconut oil was also found to be capable of preventing LDL oxidation with
reduced carbonyl formation. The results demonstrated the potential
beneficiary effect of virgin coconut oil in lowering lipid levels in serum and
tissues and LDL oxidation by physiological oxidants (Nevin, 2004).
MEDLINE Citations
Nevin KG, Rajamohan T. Beneficial effects of virgin coconut oil on lipid
parameters and in vitro LDL oxidation.
Clin Biochem. 2004 Sep;37(9):830-5.
PMID: 15329324 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Posted by Ricco at 6:19 AM
1 COMMENT:

Justin said...
Depending on what type of diabetes you have, your diet will vary, but a lot of diabetics
find it easiest to manage their blood sugar levels if they eat every 2-3 hours. Eat small,
balanced meals with healthy snacks in between. I find it best if I eat breakfast at around
7am, snack at 10am, eat lunch around 12pm, have a snack at 3pm then eat dinner around
6pm. I also test my blood sugar level before bed and try to eat some sort of protein to
hold me over throughout the night an by doing this and follow the guidelines of Natural
Diabetes Management than diabetes can be cured easily.

August 14, 2008 at 4:01 AM

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Vegetables and fruits provide phytonutrients that fight off free radicals. Antioxidants contained in
these plant nutrients are our weapon against a variety of illnesses. Proper and adequate nutrition
should not take a back seat when treating diseases.
The intent of this blog is to provide information. Readers are strongly advised to consult their
healthcare providers for their specific concerns. Exercise due diligence!
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Ricco
A caring family physician who is very much into wellness and prevention of illnesses
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