Edible Plants That Cure Common Diseases

Go generic or go herbal. Whichever way you choose, you end up saving money for keeping yourself physically fit and healthy. But if you want to go natural, there are a good number of medicinal plants in the Philippines that are proven to cure various illnesses.

Here are 10 medicinal plants that can either be taken as medicine for various diseases or simply by drinking its extracts and juices.

Ampalaya (Bitter Melon)

Ampalaya is a very popular plant in the Philippines. The fruit is made into various delicacies while the leaves serve as a major ingredient in cooking meat or fish. The leaves are also made into Ampalaya Tea and most recently it goes into a process that transforms it into a capsule form. This medicinal plant is recommended by medical practitioners for the treatment for Diabetes.

Akapulco

Akapulco Leaves are said to be an effective cure for skin disorders. Extracted juice is applied in affected areas of the skin. You can also boil the leaves and use it to wash affected areas of your skin.

Bayabas (Guava)

Guava Leaves are said to be good for treatment of wounds. diarrhea, toothache, nose bleeds. Some women are using it for virginal wash because of its antiseptic properties. Leaves should be washed thoroughly and chopped into pieces. Boil it for about 15 minutes in low fire. Do not cover. It is also good as a mouthwash when taken or mixed with lukewarm water.

Bawang (Garlic)

Garlic is known the world over as a necessary ingredient in cooking various dishes. In the Philippines, aside from its popularity as a cooking ingredient, garlic is being used as medicine for curing various diseases. It is normally prepared by frying it in small amount of cooking oil. Soak in vinegar for about 30 minutes and blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes. Take 2 or 3 cloves after every meal. It is recommended for the treatment of high blood pressure, ulcer, flu, kidney problems, colds, respiratory ailments, among others.

Lagundi

Like guava leaves, lagundi can also be made into hot tea for drinking. Leaves should be thoroughly washed and chopped into pieces and boil under low fire for about 15 minutes without cover. Lagundi is recommended for the treatment of colds, flu, and asthma, among others.

Sambong

Sambong Leaves can also be made into hot tea. Leaves should be washed thoroughly and boil for about 15 minutes without cover. It is good for treatment of kidney disorders, colds, and hypertension.

Tsang Gubat

Same as the other medicinal plants, Tsaang Gubat leaves should be washed thoroughly and boiled for about 15 minutes without cover. Tsaang Gubat is recommended for treatment of stomach and abdominal pain.

Niyog-Niyogan

Niyog Niyogan is common in the forest of the Philippines, Myanmar and Malaysia. It is used for effective treatment of rheumatism or for alleviating diarrhea. Fruit can be eaten after cleaning and soaking thoroughly in clean tap water.

Ulasimang Bato

The Leaves of Ulasimang Bato is use for the treatment of arthritis and gout. It can also be taken fresh as salad or tea. Leaves should be thoroughly washed and boiled for about 15 minutes.

Yerba Buena

Yerba Buena preparations come in tablets, capsule and tea. This medicinal plant is said to be good for the treatment of headache, toothache, arthritis. When made into powder or ointment it is recommended for the treatment of insect bites.

Some of these medicinal plants can also be found in other parts of the world under a different name. In the Philippines, these medicinal plants have been subjected to various tests or scientific studies for their medicinal properties and value.

Most plants particularly the leaves are processed or converted into capsules, tablets and powder forms. They are available in most drugstores and clinics.

These 10 medicinal Plants have been endorsed by the Department of Health of the Philippines for relief and treatment of various ailments.

Other Medicinal Plants found in the Philippines that are said to have medicinal value are as follows:

• Banaba
• Luya (Ginger)
• Oregano
• Sabila (Aloe Vera)
• Silymarin
• Virgin Coconut Oil