Herbs with medicinal or health-giving properties

A reader asked if I had photographs of the herbs mentioned last week. Unfortunately, I don’t. Later, I will give the scientific names of the plants so readers can Google them if they want to know how they look.

In the meantime, here are other herbs with medicinal or health-promoting uses as identified by chef Roberto G. Clemeña, who once headed the Herb Society of the Philippines.

As tea, lemon grass or tanglad (Cymbopogon citrates) relieves fever, irregular menstruation, hot flashes and rheumatic pains. A paste with neem tree leaves heals wounds more quickly. Rubbing lemon grass on skin improves circulation.

The juice of katmon fruit (Dillenia philippinensis), with sugar, relieves cough. Katmon juice may also be used to wash the hair.

Kalumpit (Terminalia edulis blanco) is reputed to be an effective eyewash. The leaves of libas are used in Bicol provinces to flavor meat but its fruit reportedly contains vitamin C.

Limonsito (Triphasia trifolia [Burm f.] P. Wils.) flowers are made into an infusion to relieve diarrhea. The fragrant malvarosa or geranium, a decorative plant, has been traditionally regarded as a source of oil for women, a powerful healer and an insect repellant. The oil, extracted from leaves, stalks and flowers, can be used in massage to relieve premenstrual pain and tension. The scent, somewhat similar to citronella’s, repels insects.

Native oregano (Coleas ambonicus), which is not really native as it came from Mexico and not really oregano, is not for cooking as it will give food a bitter taste. It is primarily a medicinal plant—a cure for colds, fever and cough—when used as an infusion. A poultice of leaves, applied on the forehead and temples, can relieve headaches. Rubbing leaves on the skin will also keep mosquitoes away.

Sinamomo (Lawsonia inervis) is, Clemeña says, known internationally, particularly in Africa and India, as henn. The black dye from the leaves is used in shampoos for smooth, black, brilliant hair.

Turmeric or luyang dilaw has a place of honor in Ayurvedic or Indian traditional medicine, according to Clemeña. It is believed to be the cleanser of all body systems. Roots are used to relieve indigestion, poor circulation, cough, pharyngitis and skin disorders. Turmeric is used in massage oil, facial cream, lotions and compresses, or as spice.

Clemeña warns, however, that people with hepatitis and pregnant women should not use the herb.

The essential oil from the roots of vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides) is called the “oil of tranquility,” exuding a deep, smoky and earthy aroma that relaxes the senses. A clump of the roots is very refreshing and relaxing when used as a bath scrub, stimulating circulation and rejuvenating the skin.

Wild ginger is a bit blackish, hence called luyang itim, Clemeña says. Expensive and not always available, the ginger is said to stimulate appetite, aid in digestion and prevent nausea, and is reputed to be a cure for jet lag.

Here are the scientific names of the herbs mentioned last week: basil, Ocimum basilicum; lemon balm, Melissa officinalis; marjoram,  Origanum majorana; mugwort, Artemisia vulgaris; oregano, Origanum vulgare; parsley, Petroselinum crispum; rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis; tarragon, Artemisia dracunculus; annatto or achuete,  Bixa orellana; balimbing, Averrhoa carambola L.; bayasong, Citrus aurantifolia; chives, Allium tuberosum; cinnamon,  Cinnamomum mercadoi; galangal, Alipinia galangal; and gotu kola, Centella asiatica.

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