Filipino ingenuity, practicality and curiosity have paved the way to discoveries of medicinal alternatives. Instead of using synthetic drugs that can be bought in pharmacies, the Department of Health (DOH) is convincing people to use traditional herbal medicine. They attest that it is cheaper, accessible, and have little or no side effects.  After series of studies and and painstaking experiments, the DOH has already scientifically approved ten herbal medicines in the Philippines.

1. Akapulko (Cassia alata)

This medicinal herb contains chrysophanic acid and fungicide that can help treat people suffering from scabies, ringworm, eczema, and intestinal parasite

1. Ampalaya (Momordica charantia)

It has the capacity to regulate sugar levels in the body. As a result, it may be used for the treatment and maintenance of Diabetes Mellitus type 2 or the so called non insulin dependent diabetes.

1. Bawang (Allium sativum)

It is very popular for its natural antibacterial effects. Crushed garlic may be directly applied on wound to prevent infection. Best of all, it has been proven to reduce cholesterol level thereby lowering high blood pressure.

1. Bayabas (Psidium guajava)

Bayabas/Guava can be used as an antiseptic. It’s boiled leaves can be used as a mouth cleanser thereby treating mouth or any gum infections. Traditionally, parents usually use this to cleanse the genitals of their newly circumcised child.

1. Lagundi (Vitex negundo)

This herb can effectively treat cough and asthma. This herb has become popular not only in the Philippines but also around the world. There have been capsules developed from this herb as well.

1. Niyog-Niyogan (Quisqualis indica L.)

The dried full-grown seeds of this vine are very helpful in eliminating intestinal worms. Preferably, ingest the seeds two hours after meals for higher efficacy. If ineffective, you may do it again after a week.

1. Sambong (Blumea balsamifera)

This herb has a diuretic property. When ingested, it may help excrete excess water and sodium in the body. It is very helpful for people suffering from kidney stones.

1. Tsaang Gubat(Ehretia microphylla Lam)

This shrub is well known to relieve abdominal spasm and gastroenteritis. It also has high fluoride content which makes it a good mouth gargle to prevent teeth and gum problems.

1. Ulasimang Bato (Peperomia pellucida)

The leaves of this herb can be ingested thereby decreasing uric acid level. It may help people who are suffering from gout and arthritis. It also contains many vitamins and minerals necessary for our daily nutrition.

1. Yerba Buena(Clinopodium douglasii)

By pounding the leaves and applying it to an area with pain, it may serve as a topical analgesic. It may also be taken orally by making a tea out of it thereby relieving pain as well.

Aside from these approved herbal plants with medicinal values, Filipinos also use several other herbs for treatment of different diseases. Tawa-tawa, for example, is said to help people suffering from dengue. Some people claim that this herb may help restore normal blood platelet.

Tawa-tawa

In addition, the Malunggay or Moringa in English, although not approved by DOH, has already been proven to have great medicinal properties. It can be an antiseptic to wounds and has some antibacterial effects as well. It is also packed with vitamins and minerals essential for a person’s nutrition. The Filipinos have become used to using the malunggay leaf as an ingredient in soups and other cuisines. Not only that it adds great taste, but it may also add to the food’s nutritional value.

Health and Nutrition have always been at the forefront of the Filipino’s priorities. Knowing how to make the best use of these medicinal alternatives, it is imperative for each and every one of us to utilize these available resources to stay fit and healthy. You may take a look at your backyard and realize that the answer to your health problem is just that obscure plant in your garden that you have been ignoring for a long time.  . 

MC Pitt- Editor

BJ Geronimo