As a gardening and landscaping expert, I am thrilled to share with you a list of 10 medicinal plants that have been approved by the Department of Health in the Philippines. These plants have been recognized for their therapeutic properties and can be grown in your own garden or even in pots if you have limited space.
1. Garlic (Allium sativum): Garlic, also known as Bawang, is not only a popular culinary ingredient but also a powerful medicinal plant. It is known for its antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. Consuming garlic regularly may help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve cardiovascular health.
2. Nagal Camphor (Blumea balsamifera): Locally known as Sambong, this plant is commonly used in traditional medicine for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. Sambong leaves are often brewed into tea and used to treat urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and even hypertension.
3. Ringworm Bush (Cassia alata): Akapulko, or Cassia alata, is a shrub known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. Its leaves and bark are commonly used to make poultices or ointments to treat various skin conditions such as ringworm, eczema, and fungal infections.
4. Mint (Clinopodium douglasii): Yerba Buena, as it is commonly called in the Philippines, is a refreshing herb that is known for its soothing properties. It is often used as a natural remedy for indigestion, headaches, and even respiratory problems like coughs and colds.
5. Scorpion Bush (Ehretia microphylla): Tsaang Gubat, or Scorpion Bush, is a small tree with medicinal leaves that are traditionally used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Tsaang Gubat tea is often consumed to relieve stomachaches, diarrhea, and even skin irritations.
6. Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia): Bitter Melon, also known as Ampalaya, is a popular vegetable in the Philippines. It is renowned for its hypoglycemic properties and is often used to help manage diabetes. Bitter Melon is also believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
7. Lagundi (Vitex negundo): Lagundi is a shrub that is widely used in traditional medicine for its expectorant and antitussive properties. Its leaves are often boiled to make a decoction that can help relieve coughs, asthma, and even bronchitis.
8. Guava (Psidium guajava): The Guava tree, locally known as Bayabas, is not only famous for its delicious fruits but also for its medicinal properties. Guava leaves are known to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects and are often used to treat wounds, diarrhea, and even dental issues like gum infections.
9. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis): Aloe Vera is a succulent plant that is well-known for its soothing and healing properties. The gel found in its leaves is often used topically to treat burns, wounds, and various skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
10. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Ginger, or Luya, is a versatile spice that is widely used in culinary preparations. It is also valued for its medicinal properties, including its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Ginger is often used to alleviate nausea, aid digestion, and even reduce muscle pain.
By incorporating these 10 medicinal plants into your garden or home, you can have easy access to natural remedies for various health conditions. It is important to note that while these plants have been traditionally used for their therapeutic properties, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using them for medicinal purposes.
