INTRODUCTION
H
o
erbal medicine has been used for many years and its history dates back much further than that of modern day pharmaceuticals. It
plays a major role in alternate medicine and it is useful in preventing and treating common ailments. Medical herbs possess medicinal properties that recommends guidance and knowledge. With this, everyone will be given the ability to use herbs to ease discomfort and promote healing. Growing up in Manchester, Jamaica as a child, I remember seeing my mother using medical herbs to ease any discomfort my brother and I would experience. This has led to my appreciation for its usefulness as an adult and my interest to create a herbal booklet so others can benefit from its healing properties.This booklet will provide information on the uses, benefits and treatment of the selected plants. This booklet allows you to take your health in your own hands, but if you have a prolonged medical issue, please seek a doctor. It is safe to say that herbal medicine provides a way to avoid the dangers of over the counter medicines. Whether it be common colds, menstrual cramps or migraine headaches it is likely that plant based medicine can help. Enjoy!
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
T
o
oday, medicinal herbs are being assessed for their healing qualities and as knowledge grows, individuals are better able to care for themselves. Times are changing! And so I am happy to be given the opportunity to create a booklet that could be vital in helping individuals in treating themselves for minor ailments. I could not have done this without God who gave me the spirit of perseverance to complete this project, my technical support and friend, Tanique Francis, my sponsor moral support, Sadraine Thompson and my academic supervisor, Mr. Andrew Smith.
THE AUTHOR
T
o
he author, Danelle Reid is a final year student at
the University of Technology, Jamaica. Reid, who hails from the parish of Manchester aspires to become an entrepreneur in the near future. She enjoys travelling, listening to music and reading literature. During her leisure time, Reid enjoys volunteering. The UTech, Ja Job Fair, Tag Drive for Charity and the Mentorship programme just to name a few. She lives by the mantra, “God helps those who help themselves�.
C O N T E NT o P E P P E R M I N T .......................................................................... 2 C E R A S E E ................................................................................... 4 S O R R E L ...................................................................................... 6 R A S P B E R R Y ............................................................................ 8 A L O E V E R A .............................................................................. 10 R O S E M A R Y .............................................................................. 12 G I N G E R ...................................................................................... 14 L E A F O F L I F E......................................................................... 16 I N S I G H T S ................................................................................. 18 I N S I G H T S ................................................................................. 20 D I S C L A I M E R ......................................................................... 22 H E A L T H R E G U L A T I O N S .............................................. 23 P R O C E S S E D H E R B S ....................................................... 25 G L O S S A R Y ............................................................................. 27 R E F E R E N C E .......................................................................... 28
1
PEPPERMINT
Peppermint Mentha piperita
T
his is a popular herb that is recommended for stomach aches, congestion, headaches and nausea. Its oil has antifungal
properties that can be used to reduce the chances of fungal nail infection. The peppermint oil can be also used for skin care purposes because it contains menthol which is a cooling sensation that help to relax the muscles. 2
It is also useful for removing dandruff and lice from the the hair and give relatively healthy hair a shiny look. Peppermint is highly known for its scent and it is one of the easiest way to identify it. This plant is known to be found in candies, candles, soaps, toothpastes and even body scrubs for its aroma and flavor. Did you know? Nausea is sometimes caused by a variety of illnesses and peppermint is known to offer quick relief that settles the stomach. PEPPERMINT TEA Ingredients 1 cup boiled water a generous amount of pepper mint leaves 1 teaspoon of sugar Directions Pour boiling water into a mug, allow the tea to steep for 5-8 minutes. Precautions Too much usage of peppermint oil or tea can trigger an allergic reaction causing heart burn.
3
CERASEE
Cerasee
Momordica charantia
T
his is a popular herb that is recommended for relieving abdominal pains, menstrual cramps, constipation, fever and cold in children.
It is a very bitter herb that contains detoxifying properties and it is often used as a wash out to purge the body. The yellow fruit that it produces, better known as bitter guard or bell can be eaten raw.
4
The cerasee plant is also used to make bush bath to treat skin problems and insect bites. It is known to be rich in vitamin A and C, phosphorus and iron. Did you know? Abdominal pain is one of the main symptoms of constipation. Luckily, cerasee is said to give fast relief along with fiber intake, drinking sufficient water and increase physical activity. CERASEE TEA Ingredients cup of hot boiled water a generous amount of cerasee leaves 1 teaspoon of sugar Directions Pour boiling water into a mug, allow the tea to steep for 5-8 minutes. Precautions It is speculated that much usage of cerasee tea can result in liver damage
5
SORREL
Sorrel
Rumex acetosa
T
his plant is popularly used to make a refreshing beverage during the Christmas season in Jamaica and is
recommended to be used to boost the immune system. The plant contains vitamins and minerals namely vitamin C, niacin, calcium and a group of compounds called flavonoids. Flavonoid is known to give the fruit its red colour which acts a powerful antitoxin against diseases.
6
Did you know? The immune system’s main role is to protect the body against infections and diseases and sorrel helps to boost this function. SORREL TEA Ingredients 1 cup of hot boiled water a clove of ginger generous amount of sorrel Directions Place sorrel and a clove of ginger into boiling water. Boil for 2 minutes, turn heat off. Cover and allow to steep for 5-8 minutes Strain and sweeten to taste
7
RASPBERRY
Raspberry
Rubus idaeus, Rubus strigosus
T
his tasty fruit can be a delicious addition to a healthy natural diet and so can its leaves. Its leaves are packed with antioxidants and
anti-inflammatory properties that is ideal to soothe fever and headaches. It also contains vitamins B, C, E, potassium, iron, magnesium, making it suitable to treat cold and flu symptoms, menstrual discomfort, constipation and boosting the immune system.
8
The raspberry leaves can be used to make a tea that is considered to be low in calories because it has metabolism stimulating properties that aids in weight loss. Did you know? The raspberry tea can also be enjoyed throughout pregnancy as it serves as a uterine tonic for easy delivery. RASPBERRY TEA Ingredients 1 cup of hot boiled water 2 tea spoon dried raspberry leaves. Directions Place raspberry in boiling water. Boil for 2 minutes and turn off heat. Cover and allow steep for 5-8 minutes. Strain and sweeten to taste Precautions: Green Raspberry leaves can cause nausea, ensure that leaves are dried before use.
9
ALOE VERA
Aloe Vera
Aloe barbadensis
T
his plant is one that is commonly known for the spikes on its leaves. These leaves are filled with rich gel useful for treating
burns, cuts and scrapes due its antibacterial compounds. It is rich in vitamin B, C, E, copper, magnesium and potassium which makes it ideal in relieving inflammation, stimulating digestion, boosting immunity and detoxifying the body.
10
The aloe vera juice is used to relieve constipation and helps to keep the body hydrated. It also stimulates urination which aids in relieving the body of excess toxins, fats and salts. It is also good for nourishing the skin as it plumps up thirsty cells causing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to be reduced. Did you know? Aloe Vera and coconut oil can be used together to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines? ALOE VERA FACE MASK Ingredients 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel 1 teaspoon coconut oil Directions Apply the aloe vera gel to freshly washed face. Wait for it absorb, then apply coconut oil. Rinse face with lukewarm water to remove excess coconut oil. Precautions Do not intake aloe vera internally if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Overuse can result in diahorrea. 11
ROSEMARY
Rosemary
Rosmarinus Officinalis
T
his plant is known for its use in the kitchen to add flavor to pots rather than to be used as a form of medicine. Rosemary has
anti-inflammatory, antifungal and anti-carcinogenic properties that is useful for treating colds, indesgestion, migraine and detoxifying the body. Its oil is excellent for skin and haircare due its anti- aging properties that is good for improving quality of skin and healing blemishes.
12
Did you know? Rosemary can be used to relieve migraine pains just by smelling its aroma. ROSEMARY CONDITIONER Ingredients 1 cup natural unscented herbal conditioner 40 drops rosemary essential Directions In a bowl, combine the conditioner with the essential and blend well. After shampooing, apply a reasonable amount to scalp, using a little more or less as needed to cover it completely. Wait 2 to 5 minutes then rinse the conditioner out with cool water. Use daily for best results. Precautions: Do not use rosemary if you have epilepsy. Over use of rosemary may result in nausea, vomiting and inflammation of the gut.
13
GINGER
Ginger
Zingiber officinale
T
he ginger plant root is useful for adding flavor to dishes and for treating ailments. It has anti-flammatory,
anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-pasmodic and hypotensive properties. This means that it is excellent in preventing stomach spasms and gas that leads to diahorrea. Ginger is useful in regulating high sugar levels that disrupts the digestion process and soothes the stomach.
14
It also helps to reduce the level of prostaglandins which are hormones that causes cramps and fevers in the body. Ginger is an ideal cure for nausea and motion sickness. It is a natural blood thinner that can be used to lower cholesterol and its ability to purge toxins makes it ideal for treating cold and flu.Ginger can be found in wines, sodas, sweets and soaps. Did you know? Ginger oil can be used to soothe sore throats. GINGER OIL Ingredients Ginger Olive oil Directions Rinse 1 cup of fresh ginger (chopped) and let it dry for 1-2 hours. Add 2 cups of olive oil to an oven-safe bowl and grate the dry ginger into the oil. Stir the mixture and place the bowl in the oven for 2 hours at low heat (170 degrees Fahrenheit).
15
LEAF OF LIFE
Leaf Of Life Bryophyllum pinnta
T
he leaf of life plant is very common in Jamaica and can be found in gardens and nearby bushes. It is popularly known as ‘love bush’
and is good for treating respirationary conditions, coughs, colds and menstrual cramps. The leaves contain antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antimicrobial properties that makes it ideal for treating insect bites, viruses, fever and relieving pain.
16
Did you know? The Leaf of Life plant originated from Madagascar, Africa?
LEAF OF LIFE Ingredients 1 cup of hot boiled water generous amount of leaf of life Directions Place leaves in boiling water. Boil for 2 minutes and turn off heat. Cover and allow steep for 5-8 minutes. Strain and sweeten to taste
17
INSIGHTS
o
M
r.Headley Reid is a traditional
herbalist that hails from Balvenie Heights, Manchester. Reid, who is fanscinated with plants, first developed his passion from an accident. During this unfortunate period he utilized herbal medicine in which aided in his speedy recovery. According to Reid, “over the years herbal medicine as played an integral role in treating pain and continues to very relevant today�.
18
INSIGHTS
o
M
r. Reid shared some insights on some common herbs that he is familar with when used as a treatment.
ALOE VERA “very useful for healing cuts and good for washing the body from toxins”. CERASEE “good for diahorrea and belly ache”. PEPPERMINT “helps belly pain and menstrual cramps; good for gas too”. ROSEMARY “good for the hair” SORREL “good for circulation” 19
INSIGHTS
o
D
r. V . Robinson Fowler is a Iridologist,
herbologist, doctor of Philosophy in Natural Health and operator of Choose Life Nutrition Herbal Research Center Ltd in Jamaica. Dr. Robinsion Fowler is of the view that medical herbs are beneficial to the body simply because herbs are plants, “the body is organic, the body respond to plants which is food quicker than it does to chemicals”. However, though these herbs have rich benefits to the body she advises that persons should seek knowledge and do research before opting to use it as an alternate treatment. She also recommends that in the initial stages of using herbal medicine persons should start with small dosages, “ if you don’t know it one leaf can’t hurt you but a whole bunch can”.
20
INSIGHTS
o
D
r. V. Robinson Fowler provided some insights on the healing properties of some plants that she has studied.
ALOE VERA “a blood cleanser, cleans the colon, works good with diabetes, helps with digestion, tightens the skin , good for the hair”. CERASEE “ blood cleanser”. GINGER “is for gas, circulatory” LEAF OF LIFE “removes mucus from the lungs” RASPBERRY “that’s a female herb, balances the menopausal and menstual cycles” ROSEMARY “ helps gas, inflammation, indegestion, yeast infection, makes your hair looks beautiful”. SORREL “ good for the heart, it is a cardiotonic”
21
D I S C LAI M E R
o
T
he information presented within this booklet is for informational and awareness purposes. It wishes not be interpreted as a
substitute for diagnosis and treatment given by a healthcare professional for pharmaceutical drugs. Though the information within this booklet is based from material gained from a herbalist and the source can be deemed as reliable, the booklet does not give medical advice. It is adviced that persons who wishes to use this information should share it with his or her medical practitioner before utilizing it. It will be also recommended to discuss any alternative or natural remedy with a medical practitioner or health care provider before attempting to use any form of herbal medicine.
22
H EALT H R E G U LAT I O N S AN D GUIDELINES FOR MEDICAL HERBS
T
o
he Ministry of Health currently does not have any legislation that regulates the distribution of herbal medicine. In fact, the ministry
identifies common authentic Jamaican medical herbs by their genetic name and are distributed in that manner.However, the only law that has been amended is the one that governs cannabis.
23
PROCESSED HERBS
o
The Raspberry plant otherwise known as the female plant is popular for its tasteful fruits. R A S P B E R R Y T E A
C E R A S E E T E A
The Cerasee plant commonly known as “bittas or bitta bush”, is ridiculed as every child’s nightmare.
24
PROCESSED HERBS
o
The Sorrel plant is a popular in Jamaica that is sought and made during the festive season. It is said that once the plant blossoms then Christmas is near. S O R R E L J U I C E
The Peppermint plant is quite popular in Jamaica. It is widely known to ease gas pains.
P E P P E R M I N T TEA
25
GLOSSARY
o
Antibacterial
“Active against bacteria”.
Anti-carcinogenic
“Having to do with preventing or delaying the development of cancer”
Antifungal
“Used to prevent fungal growth; active against fungi”.
Anti- inflammatory
“Used to reduce inflammation”
Antimicrobial “destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic microorganisms”
Antioxidants “A substance such as vitamin C or E that removes potentially damaging oxidizing agents in a living organism”
Anti-pasmodic
“Used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle”.
Cardiotonic “tending to increase the tonus of heart muscle” Detox “A process or period of time in which one abstains from or rids the body of toxic or unhealthy substances; detoxification”.
26
GLOSSARY
o Hypotensive
“lowering the blood pressure.”
Niacin “A vitamin of the B complex which is widely distributed in foods such as milk, wheat germ, and meat, and can be synthesized in the body from tryptophan. Its deficiency causes pellagra”.
Respirationary “Relating to or affecting respiration or the organs of respiration”. Toxin “A poison of plant or animal origin, especially one produced by or derived from microorganisms and acting as an antigen in the body”.
27
REFERENCE
o Bryan, R. (2011, April 29). Sorrel Research Deepens. The Gleaner. Retrieved from: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110429/news/news6.html Caribbean & Co. (2018). Sorrel, A festive Caribbean Drink. Caribbean & Co. Retrieved from: https://www.caribbeanandco.com/sorrel-festive-caribbean-drink/ Barnes, J, Anderson, L & Phillipson, J.(2007) Herbal Medicine. Third Edition. Pharmacetical Press -London. Retrieved by: http://naturalingredient.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/ HerbalMedicines,Thirdedition-JoanneBarnesJ. DavidPhillipsonLindaA.Anderson.pdf Grant, D. (2016). Cerasee Benefits. The Jamaica Observer. Retrieved from: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/magazines/allwoman/Ceraseebenefits_57058 Healthy Herbs and Spice. (2018). Cerasee. Healthy Herbs and Spice. Retrieved from: http://www.healthy-herbs-and-spices.com/cerasee.html Medicalherbs- 4 U.com. The medicinal leaves of leaf of life herb may be tied to the forehead to allievate headache Medicalherbs- 4 U.com. Retrieved from: https://www.medicinalherbs-4u.com/leaf-of-life.html
REFERENCE
o Organic Facts. (2018). 21 Benefits of Aloe Vera. Organic Facts. Retrieved from: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/healthbenefits-of-aloe-vera.html Organic Facts. (2018). 7 Incredible Benefits of Ginger Essential Oil. Organic Facts. Retrieved from: https://www.organicfacts.net/ginger-essential-oil.html Organic Facts. (2018). 8 Amazing Benefits Of Raspberry Leaf Tea. Organic Facts. Retrieved from: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/raspberryleaf-tea.html Organic Facts. (2018). 9 Amazing Benefits Of .Peppermint Tea Organic Facts.Retrieved from: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/beverage/peppermint-tea. html Organic Facts. (2018). 9 Surprising Sorrel Benefits. Organic Facts. Retrieved from: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/sorrel.html