AlugbatiBasella rubra Linn.Lo k'ueiMALABAR NIGHTSHADEProperties and constituents• Demulcent, diuretic, emollient, laxative, rubefacient.• Study isolated Basellasaponins A, B, C, and D, oleanane-type triterpenes oligoglycosides, together with betavulgaroside 1, spinacoside C, and momordins IIb and IIc, from fresh aerial parts.

UsesNutritionalCommon market product, a popular leafy and stew vegetable, a good substitute for spinach.The green and purple cultivated varieties are preferable to the wild ones.Both the young shoots and stems are eaten.Excellent source of calcium and iron; good source of vitamins A, B, and C, with a high roughage value.FolkloricRoots are employed as rubefacient.Poultice of leaves used to reduce local swelling.Sap is applied to acne eruptions to reduce inflammation.Decoction of leaves used for its mild laxative effects. Pulped leaves applied to boils and ulcers to hasten suppuration.Sugared juice of leaves useful for catarrhal afflictions.Leaf-juice, mixed with butter, is soothing and colling when applied to burns and scalds.In Ayurveda, used for hemorrhages, skin diseases, sexual weakness, ulcers and as laxative in children and pregnant women.In Nigeria, use for fertility enhancement in women.

Studies• Anthocyanins / Natural Food Colorant : Study of pigment extracted from fruits of spinach vine (B. rubra) showed good stability with a potential as a natural food color.• Antifungal: Study yielded two antifungal peptides with potent antivity against Botrytis cinerea, Mycosphaerella arachidicola and Fusarium oxysporum.• Antimicrobial: A study of the aqueous, ethanolic and petroleum ether extracts of the leaves of Basella rubra exhibited antimicrobial activity against all test organisms except P aeruginosa. The ethanolic extract showed maximum effect against E coli. Further studies are needed to isolate the active compound responsible for the antimicrobial effect.

Bayabas or Guava (Psidium guajava)

Uses of Bayabas :• Antiseptic, astringent & anthelminthic • Kills bacteria, fungi and ameba• Used to treat diarrhea, nosebleeding• For Hypertension, diabetes and Asthma• Promotes menstruation

The fresh leaves are used to facilitate the healing of wounds and cuts. A decoction (boiling in water) or infusion of fresh leaves can be used for wound cleaning to prevent infection. Bayabas is also effective for toothaches. Note: Bayabas can cause constipation when consumed in excess.Preparation:• Boil one cup of Bayabas leaves in three cups of water for 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool. • Use decoction as mouthwash, gargle.• Use as wound disinfectant - wash affected areas with the decoction of leaves 2 to 3 times a day. Fresh leaves may be applied to the wound directly for faster healing.• For toothaches, chew the leaves in your mouth.• For diarrhea, boil the chopped leaves for 15 minutes in water, and strain. Let cool, and drink a cup every three to four hours.• To stop nosebleed, densely roll Bayabas leaves, then place in the nostril cavities.

Bawang, Bauang | Garlic (Allium sativum)

Health Benefits of Bawang-Garlic:• Good for the heart• Helps lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL)• Aids in lowering blood pressure• Remedy for arteriosclerosis• May help prevent certain types of cancer• Boosts immune system to fight infection• With antioxidant & antibacterial properties• Cough and cold remedy• Relives sore throat• Aids in the treatment of tuberculosis• Helps relieve rheumatism pain• Relief of toothaches• Kills skin fungus i.e. athlete’s foot• With anticoagulant propertiesPreparation of Bawang-Garlic:• For disinfecting wound, crush and juice the garlic bulb and apply. You may cover the afflicted area with a gauze and bandage.• For sore throat, peal the skin and chew for several minutes. Swallow the juice.• For toothaches, crush then bite garlic.• For athlete’s foot, soak feet in salty water then apply garlic juice. Do this 3X day for a week.• Cloves of garlic may be crushed and applied to affected areas to reduce the pain caused by arthritis, toothache, headache, and rheumatism.• Decoction of the bawang bulbs and leaves are used as treatment for fever.• For nasal congestion, steam and inhale: vinegar, chopped garlic, and water.Aside from being an alternative herbal medicine for hypertension, arteriosclerosis and other ailments, garlic is also recommended for maintaining good health - eat raw garlic bulbs if you can, and include bawang regularly in the food you eat. Garlic is healthy and taste good on a variety of dishes.

Luyang Dilaw - Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Medicinal Benefits of Luyang Dilao (Ginger Root):• Relieves rheumatic pains & muscle pains• Alleviates sore throat, fever and colds• Ease nausea and vomiting• Intestinal disorders and slow digestion• Relief from tympanism and flatulence• Treat intestinal worms• Hinder diarrhea, gas pains• Relieve indigestion (dyspepsia), toothaches• Lower cholesterol levels• Aids treatment of tuberculosisPreparation & Use:• Boil the ginger root in water and drink. The more concentrated the better.• For sore throat and tooth ache, remove the skin and chew small portions.• For cuts & bruises, apply the juice of luyang-dilao directly to the skin or use dried rhizomes with 70% alcohol then apply to afflicted areas.• For rheumatism and muscle pains, pound roasted or fresh ginger and apply to painful areas -can be mixed with oil for easy application.

Gumamela (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn)

Gumamela as Herbal MedicineAs herbal medicine, gumamela flower, leaves and roots are used. Gumamela has the following medicinal characteristics: expectorant, diuretic, emollient, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, anodyne and refrigerant.Preparation & Use of Gumamela:There are two ways to utilize gumamela as herbal medicine. One is dried and the other is fresh. For Dried gumamela, collect the flower, leaves and/or roots. Wash, then cut into small pieces and sun dry. To use as decoction, boil the dried gumamela parts (1/4 cup dried gumamela in 1 glass of water)

To make a decoction from fresh gumamela, Wash gumamela flower and/or leaves, cut into small pieces and boil (1/3 cup in 1 glass of water), let cool and drink.Use Gumamela as Poultice:Poultice is the use or fresh or dried herbs that is mashed, crushed or pounded - often heated (boiled in water to soften and heat the herb) and applied directly to the skin. A clean cloth or gauze can be used to help the poultice stay in place.Gumamela is used for the treatment of:• Bronchitis - as an expectorant• Coughs, sore throat• Fever - as refrigerant drink• Treats dysentery • Urinary tract infection, bladder infections• High blood pressure• Prevention of constipation• Headaches• Boils, swelling & abscesses, mumpsApplication & Use of Gumamela:• Decoction is used to treat: Bronchitis, coughs, fever, dysentery, urinary and bladder infections, high blood pressure and constipation.• Poultice is applied externally on the afflicted area. This is used to treat: headaches (on the forehead), boils, swelling, abscesses and mumps.• Intake of gumamela (alone or mixed with papaya or papaya seeds) specially in large quantities can be an abortifacient.

Malunggay (Moringa oleifera Lam.)

UsesCommercialOil, known as ben oil, extracted from flowers can be used as illuminant, ointment base, and absorbent in the enfleurage process of extracting volatile oils from flowers. The oil, applied locally, has also been helpful for arthritic pains, rheumatic and gouty joints.

Nutritional• Flowers, leaves and pods eaten as a vegetable.• Source of calcium, iron, phosphorus and vitamins A, B and C.• High in HDL (high density lipoproteins); a source of amino acids, omega oils, antioxidants.• Comparative content: Gram for gram, 7 times the vitamin C in oranges, 4 times the calcium and twice the protein in milk, 4 times the vitamin A in carrots, 3 times the potassium in bananas.• 100 gms or 1 cup of cooked malunggay leaves contain 3.1 g protein, 0.6 g fiber, 96 mg calcium, 29 mg phosphorus, 1.7 mg iron, 2,820 mg beta-carotene, 0.07 mg thiamin, 0.14a mg riboflavin, 1.1 mg niacin, and 53 mg of vitamin C. (Dr. Lydia Marero of the Food and Drug Research Institute -FNRI)FolkloricDecoction of leaves used for hiccups, asthma, gout, back pain, rheumatism, wounds and sores.Young leaves increases the flow of milk. Pods for intestinal parasitism.Constipation: Leaves and fruit Decoction of boiled roots used to wash sores and ulcers.Decoction of the bark used for excitement, restlessness.Pounded roots used as poultice for inflammatory swelling.Juice of roots is used for otalgia.Decoction of roots is use as gargle for hoarseness and sore throat.Boiled leaves used to help increase lactation.Seeds for hypertension, gout, asthma, hiccups, and as a diuretic. Rheumatic complaints: Decoction of seeds; or, powdered roasted seeds applied to affected area.Juice of the root with milk used for asthma, hiccups, gout, lumbago.Poultice of leaves applied for glandular swelling.Pounded fresh leaves mixed with coconut oil applied to wounds and cuts.The flowers boiled with soy milk thought to have aphrodisiac quality.• In West Bengal, India, roots taken by women, esp prostitutes, for permanent contraception (Studies have shown total inactivation or suppression of the reproductive system).

Studies• Moringa preparations have been cited often in scientific literature as antibiotic, antiinflammatory, hypocholesterolemic and hypoglycemic. However, many of the reports are not placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials. • Antiinflammatory / Anti-tumor: Anti-inflammtory and Antitumor Activities of Seeds Extracts of Malunggay—A study showed the crude ethanol extract of dried seeds inhibited the carrageenan-induced inflammation in the hind paw of mice by 85% at a dosage of 3 mg/g body weight;  the mature green seeds by 77%. The crude ethanol extract also inhibited the formation of Epstein-Barr virus-early antigen (EBV-EA) induced by 12-0-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). At a dosage of 100 ?g/ml, the extract inhibited EBV-EA formation by 100% suggesting its antitumor-promoting activity. <Abstract:http://www.stii.dost.gov.ph/pjsweb/data/antitumor_of_malunggay.htm>• Ovarian Cancer: Possible Role of Moringa oleifera Lam. Root in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: A hormonal etiology of epithelial ovarian cancer has been long suspected. Study suggests M Oleifera can interfere with hormone receptor-related and neoplastic growth-related cytokine pathways through centrally acting mechanisms.• Asthma: Antiasthmatic activity of Moringa oleifera Lam: A clinical study: Study showed improvement in forced vital capacity, FEV1, and peak expiratory flow rate. It suggests a usefulness for MO seed kernel in patients with asthma.• Antibiotic: 50 years ago, a study yielded Pterygospermin, a compound that readily dissociates into two molecules of benzyl isothiocyanate which has been shown to have antimicrobial properties. Unfortunately, many of the reports of antibiotic efficacy in humans were not from placebo controlled, randomized clinical trials. Recent studies have demonstrated possible efficacy against H. pylori.• Hormonal properties / Abortifacient: Biochemical observations and histologic findings have been correlated with the anti-implantation action of aequous extracts, one possible explanation for its use as an abortifacient. source• Antiurolithiatic: Study showed lowering of stone forming constituents in the kidneys of calculogenic rats with the use of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of MO suggesting antiurolithiatic activity.• Antimicrobial / Water Purifyiing: Study of MO seeds paste for water purification yielded a steroidal glycoside, strophantidin, a bioactive agent in the seed. The seed paste was found effective in clarification and sedimentation of inorganic and organic matter in raw water, reducing total microbial and coliform counts by 55% and 65% respectively, in 24 hours, compared to alum with 65% and 83% reduction.• Antipyretic / Wound Healing: Study of the ethanolic and ethyl acetate extracts of MO showed significant antipyretic activity in rats; the ethyl acetate extract of dried leaves showed significant wound healing on rat wound models.• Analgeic: Previous studies have shown analgesic activity from the leaves of MO. This study on the alcoholic extract of MO seeds showed potent analgesic activity comparable to that of aspirin dose of 25 mg/kg BW.• Hepatoprotective / Antioxidant: Study concluded that the alcoholic extracts of MO produced significant hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity, the aqueous extracts of the fruit less than the alcoholic extract.• Anthelmintic: In a comparative study of the anthelmintic activity of M oleifera and V negundo against Indian earthworm Pheritima posthuma, dose-dependent activity was observed with M oleifera showing more activity than V negundo.

Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Health Benefits of Oregano:• Good for cough and cold relief• Helps prevent degenerative arthritis• Has Anti-aging properties• Helps relieve rheumatism and osteoarthritis• Bronchitis herbal remedy• Ease asthma attacks• Relieves upset stomach• Treatment of urinary tract problems• Relief for dyspepsia or indigestion• Healing wounds, insect bites & stings• Cure for sore throat• Avoid infections caused by childbirth by taking decoctions of the leaves by the recent mother.• For general good healthPreparation of Oregano Leaves:• Boil one cup of fresh leaves in 3 cups of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink half a cup 3 times a day for common colds.• For a concentrate, juice the oregano leaves and take 1 tablespoon every hour to relieve chronic coughs, rheumatism, bronchitis, asthma, and dyspepsia.• For Insect bites, wounds and stings, apply the leaves as a poultice directly on the afflicted area.• For sore throat, boil 2 tablespoonfuls of dried oregano leaves in a pint of water, take 2 hours before or after meals.• To prevent degenerative arthritis & for general good health drink oregano decoction daily.

Pandan (Pandanus tectorius) Fragrant Screw Pine

Pandan Health Benefits:• Treats leprosy, smallpox and wounds.• Helps reduce fever• Solves several skin problems• Relives headache and arthritis• Treatment for ear pains• Functions as a laxative for children• Eases chest pains• Helps in speeding up the recuperation of women who have just given birth and are still weak• Pandan reduces stomach spasms and strengthens the gum.Preparation & Use of Pandan:• Decoction of the bark may be taken as tea, or mixed with water that is to be used in bathing, in order to remedy skin problems, cough, and urine-related concerns.• Apply pulverized roots of pandan to affected wound areas to facilitate healing.• The anthers of the male flowers are used for earaches, headaches and stomach spasms.• Chew the roots to strengthen the gum.• Extract oils and juices from the roots and flowers are used in preparing the decoction to relieve pains brought about by headache and arthritis.

Tanglad | Lemon Grass(Andropogon citratus DC)

Health Benefits of Lemon Grass | Tanglad

UsesFolkloric· Diarrhea: Boil 10 leaves in 2 glasses of water for 10 minutes; add a tablespoon of sugar and one small piece of crushed ginger.· For adults: 1 cup, 3 times daily and after each loose bowel movement.· Children: (Babies) 1 tablespoon 3 times daily and after each loose bowel movement; 2-6 years, 1/4 cup 3 times daily and after each loose bowel movement; 7-12 years, 1/2 cup three times daily and after each loose bowel movement.· Suob: One of the 10 herbal ingredients in the decoction/bath in the post-partum ritual of suob. (See: Suob)· Hot decoction of roots for toothaches. Roots also used as a diuretic.· A stomachic for children.· The oil, mixed with equal amounts of coconut oil, is used as a liniment for back pains, rheumatic complains, neuralgia, sprains and other painful afflictions.· Decoction of leaves used as stomachic, diuretic, and refrigerant.· In various traditional systems, leaf infusions used as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and sedative.

Recent uses and preparations:Stomach discomfort, toothache, sprain, vomiting and ringwormPreparation :Liniment: Boil equal amounts of chopped leaves and roots with freshly made coconut oil. Also use as insect repellant.Infusion: Mix four ounces of the grass to one pint of boiling water. To keep away mosquitos, plant it around your house or place crushed leaves on your window sills.Studies• Antibacterial / Antifungal: (1) Studies have shown antibacterial activity, comparable to penicillin. (2) Various studies has shown activity against C albicans, C pseudotropicalis, Mycrosporum gypseum and A niger.• Neurobehavioral Effects: (1) Study of myrcene in rats suggests anxiolytic activity. (2) Study of essentail oil produced marked CNS depression in mice, similar to chlorpromazine effect. Also, it increased sleepness time, similar to a thiopental effect.• Antinociceptive / Analgesic: Myrcene extract from the essential oil has been shown to have an antinociceptive effect.• Antitumoral: (1) Study showed a-myrcene possess antimutagenic activity in mammary cells. (2) Plant compounds, a-limonene and geraniol showed inhibition of liver and intestinal mucous membrane cancer in mice. (3) Study in Thailand showed inhibition of colorectal neoplasia in mice. (4) Study showed inhibitory effects on early phase hepatocarcinogenesis in rats after initiation with diethylnitrosamine.• Insect repellent / Insecticidal: Studies of plant oil and powder have shown insect repellent and insecticidal activity. Essential oil has shown activity against Anopheline mosquitos, A culicifacies and A quinquefasciatus and certaindevelopmental phase inhibition of A aegypti.• Mosquito repellent: Study on the mosquito repellency properties of volatile oils derived from lemongrass (C citratus), citronella grass (cymbopobon nadus) and May chang (Litsea cubeba) against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefascitus showed no significant difference on repellency.

KamiasAverrhoa bilimbiCUCUMBER TREE

Properties and constituents• Considered antibacterial, astringent, antiscorbutic, febrifuge, antidiabetic, stomachic, refrigerant.• Study on volatile components of AB fruits showed 6 mg/kg of total volatile compounds; 62 compounds were identified, nonanal and (Z)-3-hexenol were dominant.Uses.Folkloric • Skin diseases, especially with pruritus: Reduce the leaves to a paste and apply tolerably warm to areas of affected skin.• Fruit juice used as eye drops.• Post-partum and rectal inflammation: Infusion of leaves.• Mumps, acne, and localized rheumatic complaints: Paste of leaves applied to affected areas.• Warm paste of leaves also used for pruritus.• Used for boils, piles, rheumatism, cough, hypertension, whooping cough, mumps and pimples.• Cough and thrush: Infusion of flowers, 40 grams to a pint of boiling water, 4 glasses of tea daily.• Fever: Fruit as a cooling drink.• The fruit has been used for a variety of maladies: beriberi, cough, prevention of scurvy.• Infusion of leaves also drank as a protective tonic after childbirth.Studies• Hypoglycemic / Hypotriglyceridemic / Anti-Atherogenic / Anti-Lipid Peroxidative: Effects of Averrhoa bilimbi leaf extract on blood glucose and lipids in streptozotocin-diabetic rats: Study showed that AB extract has hypoglycemic, hypotriglyceridemic, anti-lipid peroxidative and anti-atherogenic properties in STZ-diabetic rats.• Antioxidant / Antimicrobial Activities: The scavenging of NO by the extract of AC fruits was dependent on concentration and stage of ripening. Extracts showed antimicrobial activity against E coli, Salmonella typhi, staph aureus and bacillus cereus. • Phytochemicals / Antimicrobial: Phytochemical screening of fruit extracts yielded flavonoids, saponins and triterpenoids but no alkaloids. The chloroform and methanol fruit extracts were active againsxt Aeromonas hydrophilia, E coli, K pneumonia, S cerrevisiae, S aureus, Strep agalactiae and B subtilis. In conclusion, AB fruits possess potential antibacterial activities that warrants further studies.• Anti-diabetic: Study showed the aqueous fraction was more potent than the butanol fraction in the amelioration of hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in a high fat diet-fed STZ diabetic rats and suggests the AF as the potential source for isolation of the active principle for oral antidiabetic therapy.• Anti-bacterial: Study of the aqueous extract of AB leaves and fruits showed antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The antibacterial activity could be associated with the presence of bioactive compounds of the flavonoids type, like luteolin and apigenin. The results suggest further studies to isolate and identify the responsible compounds.

AtisAnona squamosa Linn.SUGAR APPLE

Parts used and preparationLeaves, fruit and seeds.

UsesFolkloricSalted bruised leaves used to hasten suppuration.Bark decoction is used as tonic and to stop diarrhea.Root has purgative action.Leaf decoction used for rheumatic baths to alleviate pain.For fainting and hysteria, crush fresh leaves and place over nose.For infected insect bites, pound and extract the juice from one unripe fruit and apply the juice directly to the affected areas, 3 times daily.For lice infestation of the head, atis has a herbal treatment regimen:(1) Shampoo hair with gugo bark or any commercial shampoo daily for one week; with "suyod" combing twice daily.(2) For lice eggs (nits), apply hot vinegar for half an hour after shampooing; then "suyod" (fine combing) thoroughly.(3) Bedtime, pound 1/2 cup of atis seeds and mix with 1/4 cup of oil. Apply mixture throroughly to the scalp and hair. Wrap the hair and head overnight. Shampoo in the morning and follow with fine tooth combing. Do daily for 3-5 days.(4) Paste of the crushed seeds in water, applied to the scalp. The same used as abortifacient applied to the os uteri.

Studies• Anti-Inflammatory / Cyclic Peptides: Study yielded two new cyclic peptides, cyclosquamosin H and I, together with six known cyclic peptides, squamin A, squamin B, cyclosquamosin A, D E and cherimolacyclopeptide B from the seeds. Compound 7 showed an inhibitory effect on the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.• Cytotoxicity / Anticancer: (1) Extracts of A squamosa fruit pericarp was tested for cytotoxic activity against Dalton's lymphoma cells and HeLa cells. The chloroform extract was found cytotoxic to the different cell lines tested and suggests the potential for AS fruit pericarp for the development of treatment for cancers.• Antidiabetic: (1) Beneficial effects of Annona squamosa extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats: Study results showed that A. squamosa extract has an antihyperglycemic effect and alleviated liver and renal damage associated with STZ-induced diabetes mellitus in rats. (2) Study of aqueous leaf extracts were investiaged on STZ-nicotinamide induced diabetic rats. The diabetic groups treated with aqueous leaf extract were compared with standard glibenclamide.• Anti0Cancer / Squadiolins: Mono-tetrahydrofuran Annonaceous Acetogenins from Annona squamosa as Cytotoxic Agents and Calcium Ion Chelators: Squadiolins A and B showerd potency against human Hep G2 and 3B hepatoma and MCF-y breast cancer cells.• Hepatoprotective: Study on diethylnitrosamine-induced liver injury in Swiss albino mice showed hepatoprotective effect, with improvement in biochemical parameters and confirmation by histopathological studies.

CaimitoChrysophyllum cainito Linn. STAR APPLEParts used and preparationSeeds, leaves, bark, fruit.

UsesFolkloric • Dysentery: Decoction of the bark.• Tonic: Infusion of the bark is tonic and refreshing.• Latex is used for abscesses.• Dried latex used as antihelminthic.• In some countries, the fruit is used for diabetes.• Bitter seed sometimes used as tonic, for diarrhea and fevers.• Fruit eaten for inflammation in laryngitis and pneumonia.• Used for diabetes.• Decoction used for angina.• In the Ivory Coast, decoction of leaves used for hypertension.• In Venezuela, unripe fruit used for intestinal problems.• Decoction of bark used as tonic and stimulant; used for diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhages and treatment of gonorrhea.• Cubans in Miami reported to use the leaf decoction for cancer treatment.• In Brazil, bark latex used on abscesses; and as a potent vermifuge when dried and powdered. Studies• Antioxidant: (1) Polyphenolic Antioxidants from the Fruits of Chrysophyllum cainito: A study on fruit extracts yielded nine known phenolic antioxidants. (2) Study of extracts of 12 edible fruits showed nine to exhibit high antioxidant activity; C cainito yielded cyanidin-3-O-ß-glucopyranoside, an anthocyaninc antioxidant.• Vasorelaxant: A preliminary study on the relaxant effect of the crude extract and fractions of the bark of Chrysophyllum cainito L. in isolated rat thoracic aorta: Methanolic bark extract study on rats showed vasorelaxant activity on the smooth muscle.• Lectin Activity: Plant samples of 178 species and 62 families were studied for lectin activity. Potent lectins possessing more than 100,000 unites per gram were found in the fruits extracts of C arabica and Chrysophyllum cainito.• Antidiabetic Activity: Study of the aqueous decoction of C cainito leaves showed hypoglycemic activity at doses of ≥ 20 g/l. From 30 g/l, the plant would exert a toxic effect.• Hypotensive Effect: Phytochemical study attributes the hypotensive effect flavonoids with vasodilation effect and inhibition of adrenergic receptors.

KalachuchiPlumeria rubraTEMPLE FLOWER, FRANGIPANIParts utilized· Bark, leaves and flowers.· Collect from May to October.· Sun-dry.ConstituentsFlowers suppose to be source of perfume known as "Frangipiani."Bark contains a bitter glucoside, plumierid (2%).Latex contains resins, caoutchouc and calcium salts of plumieric acid: cerotinic acid and lupeol.Leaves contain a volatile oil.UsesFolkloric · Decoction of bark is used as purgative, emmenagogue, and febrifuge.· Preventive for heat stroke: the material may be taken as a cooling tea.· For dysentery, diarrhea during summer season: use 12 to 24 gms of dried material in decoction.· Arthritis, rheumatism, pruritic skin lesions: Mix the latex (sap) with coconut oil, warm, and apply to affected area.· Decoction of the bark is used as a counterirritant on the gums for toothache.· The latex mixed with coconut oil is used for itching.· The juice is rubefacient in rheumatic pains, and with camphor, is also used for itching.· A poultice of heated leaves is beneficial for swellings.· Decoction of leaves for cracks and eruptions of the soles of the feet.· Infusion or extract from leaves is used for asthma.· In Mexico, decoction of flowers used in diabetes. source

Studies • Cytotoxic / Antitumor: In Indonesia, six cytotoxic constituents were isolated from the bark of P rubra. The substances demonstrated cytotoxic activity with panel of murine lymphocytic leukemia cell lines and a number of human cancer cell-types (breast, colon, fibrosarcoma, lung, melanoma, KB)..• Cytotoxic / Antibacterial / Molluscicidal: From the heartwood, study yielded plumericin and isoplumericin which moluluscicidal, cytotoxic and antibacterial activity. • Antibacterial: P rubra was one 41 plants extracts from 18 species that showed antibacterial activity.• Essential Oils : Comparative study of the essential oils of genus Plumeria Linn. from Malaysia showed the oil of P. acuminata (white flower) was predominantly of benzyl salicylate, benzyl benzoate, trans-nerolidol, neryl phenylacetate and linanlool.• Pytochemical / Antimicrobial: Study yielded the presence of tannins, phlobatannins, saponins, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides and reducing sugar from the crude extract. The antibacterial assay showed the methanol extract to inhibit growth of 14 indicator bacteria. The extract of the flower was more active against B cereus.

Ipil-ipilSanta ElenaLeucaena glauca Linn.LEAD TREEParts utilizedDried seedsUsesFolkloricIntestinal parasitism: ascaris and trichinosis.Adults: 1 teasppon of powdered dried seeds, alone or mixed with condensed milk and followed by half a glass of water, taken as a single dose 2 hours after a meal; repeated after one week as needed.Children: 7-8 years old: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon; 9-12 years old: 1/2 to 2/3 teaspoon.Adverse effects: Abdominal pain, diarrhea.

Studies• Seed Gum / Tablet Binder: (1) R&D on seed gum for a pharmaceutical substitute for the imported guar gum used as a binder in tablet formulation. In 1996, ipil-ipil was found to be an excellent liquid excipient as a suspending and thickening agent. (2) The seed galactomannan of L leucocephala, with properties similar to guar gum was evaluated as a pharmaceutical binder and compared with standard pharmaceutical binders regarding properties of compressibility, micromeritic and mechanical properties.• Inhibition of Growth of Hair by Mimosine: (1) Loss of hair been reported in animals following ingesting of seeds and foliage and in women after consumption of LG seeds. The toxic principle is leucenol, an amino-acid (identical to the mimosine of Mimosa pudica) found primarily in the seeds of ipil-ipil, and in lesser amounts in foliage and stems.(2) Study by Andre Gerard van Veen studied the properties of the seed's amino acid mimosine, a pyridoxine derivative, associated with hair follicle toxicity in the anagen phase of growth. He noted that the outbreaks of alopecia occurred only when the plant consumed was prepared in clay pots. In iron pots, no alopecia occurred, explained by the formation of mimosine-iron complexes that reduced the absorption of mimosine.• Study of enhancement of sensitivity of hepatoma and lung cancer cells to chemotherapeutc drugs by mimosine from seeds of Leucaena Glauca Benth.• Anti-Cancer / Mimosine: (1) Mimosine, a plant specific amino acid extracted from the seeds of Lg, inhibited the proliferation of human hepatoma and lung cancer cells by suppression of cyclin D1, activating cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor and inducing apoptosis of cancer cells. (2) Mimosine showed an additive cytocidal effect in combination with chemotherapeutic drug cisplastin in vivo.• Anti-Cancer / Antiproliferative: Study extract polysaccharides from the seeds of L leucocephala, sulfated to a sulfated glycosylated form. Results showed the sulfated glycosylated form possessed significant anti-proliferative activity against different cell lines. It induced HepG2 cell death by necrosis, but not apoptosis.Study concludes the chimical modification of leucaena gum induced its cancer chemopreventive and anti-proliferative activities.

MakahiyaMimosa pudica Linn.BASHFUL MIMOSAHanxiu cao

PropertiesConsidered expectorant, antiasthmatic. analgesic, antispasmodic, alterant, sedative and antidepressant.Root considered aphrodisiac.Roots are bitter, astringent, acrid, cooling, vulnerary, alexipharmic, resolvent, diuretic, antispasmodic, emetic, constipating, febrifuge.Leaves are bitter, sudorific, tonic.Parts utilizedEntire plant.

UsesFolkloricDecoction or infusion of leaves used in asthma; expectorant.Urinary complaints, hypertension, menorrhagia.Glandular swelling, sore throat and hoarseness.Powdered seeds applied to wounds and sores.Decoction of roots used for bladder stones and other urinary complaints; also, for asthma and diarrhea.Bruised leaves applied to bruises.Decoction of leaves used for diabetes.Powdered roots and leaves take with milk for piles and fistula.Juice applied externally to fistulous sores.Poultice of leaves for glandular swellings.Roots used for leucoderma, vaginopathy, metropathy, ulcers, dysentery, inflammations, jaundice, asthma, small pox, strangury, fevers.Leaves used for hydrocoele, hemorrhoids, fistula, scrofula, conjunctivitis, wounds and hemorrhages.Whole plants used for bladder calculi; externally, for edema, rheumatism, myalgia and uterine tumors.Whole plant, crushed, used for itching and scabies.

SagingMusa sapientum Linn.BANANAParts usedLeaves, fruit.

UsesNutritionalThe "puso" (male inflorescence) of saba is used as a vegetable.Unripe fruit is sugared and candied.Rich in vitamins A, B, and C; a fair source of iron.Folkloric• Young leaves used for cool dressing of inflammed and blistered surfaces and as cool application for headaches.• Thinning hair: Apply the juice of the trunk to scalp.• Cooked flower used for diabetes.• Sap of the flower used for earaches.• In traditional medicine in India, used for diabetes.• In South-Western Nigeria, green fruits used for diabetes. Others• Plant fibers used in the manufacture of paper and clothes. A related species, Musa textilis (Abaca, Manila hemp) is produced on a commercial scale for its fiber use in the manufacture of paper.• Leaves used for wrapping food. Studies• Hypoglycemic / Flowers: Study on the chloroform extract of M sapientum flowers showed hypoglycemic activity with significant reduction of blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin and improvement in glucose tolerance.• Hypoglycemic/ Fruits: Study on the green fruits of M paradisiaca indicate it possesses hypoglycemic activity and lends credecne to its Nigerian folkloric use for diabetes.• Antioxidant: Musa sapientum flower extract showed improved antioxidant activity in diabetics.• Gastroprotective: Study on the unripe plantain extract of M sapientum and unripe pawpaw meal showed alteration of the gastric phospholipid profile and through a prostaglandin pathway may have a profound effect on the gastroduodenal mucosa and implications for gastric and duodenal ulcers in rabbits.• Flowers / Antihyperglycemic / Antioxidant: Study showed banana flower extract to have an antihyperglycemic action and antioxidant properties, comparatively more effective than glibenclamide.• Analgesic: Study of the aqueous and ethanolic extract of Musa sapientum showed central analgesic action.• Wound healing: Study of aqueous and methanolic extracts of Musa sapientum showed wound healing properties through increased wound breaking strength, reduced glutathione, decrease percentage of wound area, scar area and lipid peroxidation. Wound healing was probably through antioxidant effect and various biochemical parameters.• Anti-Ulcer Activity: Study of dried powder of banana pulp showed anti-ulcerogenic activity, esp in the unripe, mature green plantain banana (var. paradisiaca).

AbukadoPersea americanaAVOCADO

Parts usedBark, fruit, leaves and seeds.

Medicinal propertiesDigestive, emmenagogue, antibacterial, antioxidant, antifungal, pectoral, stomachic, anthelmintic, antiperiodic, antidiarrheal.

UsesNutritional• A good source of vitamins A, some B, C and E, potassium (higher than bananas) and fiber ; fair source of iron; low in calcium. A fruit with high-energy producing value, each edible pound allegedly provides an average of 1,000 calories. • High in fat, about 25-35 gms on average. however, about 65% of it is health-promoting monosaturated fat, particularly oleic acid. Folkloric• The pulp is thought to promote menstruation.• Decoction of pulverized seeds used as gargles for toothaches.• The leaves and bark promote menstruation; the tea has been used to expel worms.• Used for diarrhea and dysentery.• Rheumatism and neuralgia: Pulverize seeds or bark, mix with oil and apply on affected area as counterirritant.• Beverage: Take decoction of leaves as tea.• Pulp is applied to shallow cuts, prevents infection.• Flesh of ripe fruit is soothing to sunburned skin.• In different parts of the world, has been recommended for anemia, exhaustion, high cholesterol, hypertension, gastritis and duodenal ulcers. The leaves have been reported effective as antitussive, antidiabetic, antiarthritic and antiinflammatory.

Studies• Anticonvulsant: Anticonvulsant effect of Persea americana Mill (Lauraceae) (Avocado) leaf aqueous extract in mice: In African traditional medicine, Persiana americana has been used in various human ailments including childhood convulsions and epilepsy. A study showed that avocado leaf aqueous extract (PAE) produces anticonvulsant effect by the enhancement of GABAergic neurotransmission and/or action in the brain.• Hypoglycemic: Hypoglycemic activity of aqueous leaf extract of Persea americana: A Nigerian study revealed that the leaf extract contained various pharmacologically active compounds such as saponins, tannins, phlobatannins, flavanoids, alkaloids and polysaccharides. Although the results were incomparable to the reference drug (chlorpropamide), it confirms the ethnomedical use of the plant for diabetes management. More studies are needed to identify the hypoglycemic principles and its mechanism of action.• Hypoglycemic / Hypolipidemic: Hypoglycemic and Hypocholesterolemic Potential of Persea americana Leaf Extracts: A effect of aqueous and methanol extracts of Persea americana on plasma glucose, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-CHOL), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-CHOL) in rats was investigated. Results suggested lowering effects on glucose and lipid metabolism influences with lowering of Total and LDL cholesterols, an effect of HDL-chol and a potential protective mechanism against atherosclerosis.

ABUKADOKALCHUCHI ATIS MANGGACACAOOREGANOIPIL IPILCAIMITOAMPALAYALANKAKUGONMAYANAGUGOLUYA

LangkaArtocarpus heterophyllus Lam . JACK FRUITBo luo mi

Parts utilized · Leaves

Uses.Folkloric· Skin diseases, ulcers and wounds: Mix the burnt ashes of leaves (preferably fresh) with coconut oil, and as ointment, apply to affected areas.· Diarrhea, fever and asthma: A decoction of the root (preferably chopped into small pieces before boiling) of the tree, three to four cups daily.· Glandular swelling and snake bites: Apply the milky juice of the tree. When mixed with vinegar, it is especially beneficial for glandular swelling and abscesses, promoting absorption and suppuration.· The ripe fruit is laxative; in large quantities, it produces diarrhea.· The roasted seeds believed to have aphrodisiac properties.

Studies • Antiinflammatory: Study isolated flavonoids including: 1-cycloartomunin, 2-cyclomorusin, 3- dihydrocycloartomunin, 4- dihydroisocycloartomunin, 5- cudraflavone A, 6- cyclocommunin, 7-artomunoxanthone, 8- cycloheterohyllin, 9- artonin A, 10- artonin-B, 11- artocarpanone, 12- artocarpanone A, 13, 14, 15 -heteroflavanones A, B and C. Many of the compounds exhibited varying degrees of antiinflammatory activities–inhhibitory effects on chemical mediator release from mast cells, neutrophils and macrophages.• Inhibition of Melanin Biosynthesis: (1) Inhibitory Effect of Artocarpanone from Artocarpus heterophyllus on Melanin Biosynthesis: Study showed the extract of AH to be one of the strongest inhibitor of tyrosinase activity. Study isolated Artocarpanone, which inhibited both mushroom tyrosinase activity and melanin production in B16 melanoma cells and presents as a potential as a remedy for hyperpigmentation in human skin. (2) Structure-Activity Relationship of Prenyl-Substituted Polyphenols from Artocarpus heterophyllus as Inhibitors of Melanin Biosynthesis in Cultured Melanoma Cells: Study isolated flavone-based polyphenols which were found to be active inhibitors of the in vivo melanin biosynthesis in B16 melanoma cells.• Antibacterial: Multibeneficial natural material: Dye from heartwood of Artocarpus heterophyllus Lamk: Material isolated could be used as a direct dye for wool and silk; with antibacterial activity against B. subtilis, B. cereus, S. aureus, E coli, K pneumonia.

ManggaMangifera indica

MANGOMang guo

Properties• Root, diuretic; bark, astringent; seeds, astringent and mifuge; leaves, pectoral.• Considered antiseptic, antibacterial, antiinflammatory, diaphoretic, stomachic, vermifuge, cardiotonic and laxative.• Seed kernel considered antibacterial, antidiarrheal, antioxidant, antiviral against uropathogens.

Parts used and preparationLeaves, kernel, bark and fruit.

UsesNutritionalGood source of iron (deficient in calcium); excellent source of vitamins A, B, and C. Fruit contains citric, tartaric and mallic acids.Food: As fruit or mango-ade.

FolkloricDecoction of root is considered diuretic.Bark and seeds are astringent.Resin is used for aphthous stomatitis.Cough: Drink infusion of young leaves as needed.Diarrhea: Take decoction of bark or kernel as tea.Hot lotion from bark used for rheumatism.Gum resin from bark, mixed with coconut oil, used for scabies and other parasitic skin diseases.Juice of leaves used for dysentery.Tea of leaves with a little honey used for hoarseness and aphonia, 4 glasses daily. Powdered dried leaves, 1 tbsp to a cup of warm water, 4 times daily, used for diabetes.Ashes of burned leaves used for scalds and burns.Infusion of young leaves used in asthma and cough.Tea of powdered dried flowers, 4 times daily for diarrhea, urethritis.Juice of peel of unripe mangoes used for skin diseases.Seed is vermifuge and astringent.Infusion of powdered dried seeds used fir asthma, diarrhea, dysentery, menorrhagia, bleeding piles, round worms.

LangkaArtocarpus heterophyllus Lam .

JACK FRUITBo luo mi

Parts utilized · Leaves.

Medicinal properties· Root: antiasthmatic.· Ripe fruit: demulcent, nutritive, laxative.· Unripe fruit: astringent.· Pulp or flesh surrounding the seed is aromatic, cooling and tonic. · · Bark is considered sedative.

UsesNutritionHigh carbohydrate content. The young fruit is also a vegetable. The pulp (lamukot) surrounding the seeds is sweet and aromatic, rich in vitamin C, eaten fresh or cooked or preserved. The seeds are boiled or roasted. The unripe fruit can be pickled.Folkloric· Skin diseases, ulcers and wounds: Mix the burnt ashes of leaves (preferably fresh) with coconut oil, and as ointment, apply to affected areas.· Diarrhea, fever and asthma: A decoction of the root (preferably chopped into small pieces before boiling) of the tree, three to four cups daily.· Glandular swelling and snake bites: Apply the milky juice of the tree. When mixed with vinegar, it is especially beneficial for glandular swelling and abscesses, promoting absorption and suppuration.· The ripe fruit is laxative; in large quantities, it produces diarrhea.

Studies • Antiinflammatory: Study isolated flavonoids including: 1-cycloartomunin, 2-cyclomorusin, 3- dihydrocycloartomunin, 4- dihydroisocycloartomunin, 5- cudraflavone A, 6- cyclocommunin, 7-artomunoxanthone, 8- cycloheterohyllin, 9- artonin A, 10- artonin-B, 11- artocarpanone, 12- artocarpanone A, 13, 14, 15 -heteroflavanones A, B and C. Many of the compounds exhibited varying degrees of antiinflammatory activities–inhhibitory effects on chemical mediator release from mast cells, neutrophils and macrophages.• Inhibition of Melanin Biosynthesis: (1) Inhibitory Effect of Artocarpanone from Artocarpus heterophyllus on Melanin Biosynthesis: Study showed the extract of AH to be one of the strongest inhibitor of tyrosinase activity. Study isolated Artocarpanone, which inhibited both mushroom tyrosinase activity and melanin production in B16 melanoma cells and presents as a potential as a remedy for hyperpigmentation in human skin. (2) Structure-Activity Relationship of Prenyl-Substituted Polyphenols from Artocarpus heterophyllus as Inhibitors of Melanin Biosynthesis in Cultured Melanoma Cells: Study isolated flavone-based polyphenols which were found to be active inhibitors of the in vivo melanin biosynthesis in B16 melanoma cells.

MayanaColeus scutellarioides PAINTED NETTLE

Parts used and preparationSeeds, bark, and wood.

UsesFolkloric • Bruises and sprains: Crush or pound 10-12 leaves and apply over the ankles, wrists or affected areas for 30 minutes, three times daily. Use a bandage to hold the poultice in place.• Carminative: Take decoctions of leaves.• Headache: Pound leaves and apply over temples and nape.• Mild bleeding of wounds: Wash the young leaves; crush and extract the juice. Drop a few drops of the juice directly on the wound. Apply the crushed leaves as poultice.• Sinusitis: Heat 10-12 fresh leaves over a fire; apply while still hote over the forehead for the frontal sinues or over the cheeks for the maxillary sinuses, twice daily.• Dyspepsia: Decoction, taken internally. • Eyedrops for eye inflammation.• Reported use in Asian traditional medicine for asthma, angina, bronchitis, epilepsy, insomnia, skin rashes and various digestive problems.• In India, fresh juice of leaf and stem is mixed withh the juice of raw Citrus fruits and applied over the skin during scorpion bite. source

Studies • Antimicrobial / Diterpenes: Diastereomeric Diterpenes from Coleus blume: Study yielded a new abietane type diterpene that whowed antimicrobial activity against B subtilis, P aeruginosa and C albicans.• Antioxidant: Antioxidant Activity of Coleus Blumei, Orthosiphon Stamineus, Ocimum basilicum and Mentha arvensis from Lamiaceae Family: Study showed all methanol samples exhibited antioxidant activity and suggested that Lamiaceae plants has pharmaceutical potential for its antioxidant properties.• Forskolin / Erectile Dysfunction: Study has shown forskolin may enhance smooth muscle relaxation. Studies are needed to assess the use of coleus in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.• Anthelmintic: Leaf extract showed high efficacy against Hymenolepsis nana (mice).• Analgesic / Anti-Inflammatory / Antimicrobial: Study isolated a mixture of sterols and triterpenes from the leaves of Coleus blumei. The isolates exhibited analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. The study also isolated capesterol, a-amyrin and b-amyrin.