Green Leaf

Thursday, March 9, 2017

HEALTH BENEFITS OF LEMONGRASS

Lemongrass is best consumed as tea. It is a refreshing beverage after meal.

Top 10 health benefits of lemongrass are as follows:

1. Aids Digestion
2. Controls Cholesterol Levels
3. Reduces Arthritis Pain
4. Cleanses and Detoxifies
5. Fights Cancer 8. Reduces Body Odor
6. Heals Colds and Flu 9. Benefits New Mother
7. Keeps Skin Healthy 10. Fights Depression

1. Aids Digestion. Lemongrass promotes healthy digestion. It has antiseptic compounds that effectively kill bad bacteria and parasites in the digestive tract and repopulate the good bacteria in the colon. This in turn helps treat digestive health problems like indigestion, constipation, heartburn, diarrhea, bloating, flatulence, stomach spasms, vomiting and cramps. Plus, lemongrass has antimicrobial properties that help relieve gastroenteritis. For a healthy digestive tract, drink lemongrass tea on regular basis. Lemongrass tea, however, is not recommended for small children.

2. Controls Cholesterol Levels. The anti-cholesterol and anti-atherosclerosis action of lemongrass helps reduce the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine. Plus, it helps in the oxidation of LDL-cholesterol in the blood, which in turn helps prevent atherosclerotic plaque buildup. A University of Wisconsin study in 1989 found that people with high cholesterol who took 140-milligram capsules of lemongrass oil daily noticed reduction in cholesterol levels. They also experienced a significant decrease in blood fats. The high potassium content in lemongrass also helps lower and regulate blood pressure. Simply drink a cup of lemongrass tea everyday to help lower your cholesterol level and reduce blood pressure. You can also take this herb in supplement form after consulting your doctor.

3. Cleanses and Detoxifies. Regular consumption of lemongrass tea helps cleanse and detoxify the body. The diuretic nature of lemongrass helps remove toxins, uric acid and bad cholesterol from the body by increasing the frequency and quantity of urination. Urination also helps clean out the kidneys. Plus, the cleansing properties of this herbal tea help purify the liver, kidneys, bladder and pancreas. It also plays a key role in increasing blood circulation, which is important for overall health. Drink lemongrass tea on a regular basis to help your body get rid of harmful elements.

4. Heals Colds and Flu. Lemongrass has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help your body cope with coughs, fever and other cold and flu symptoms. Plus, it is loaded with vitamin C that boosts your immune system to fight the infection. You can use lemongrass oil to relieve pain in muscles and joints, as well as headaches resulting from a cold or the flu. Plus, lemongrass can be effective in breaking down mucus and phlegm buildup, which can alleviate problems with breathing. This is mainly beneficial when suffering from bronchitis or asthma. You can make the following medicinal drink with lemongrass. Boil a few fresh strands of lemongrass, two or three cloves, a small piece of cinnamon stick, one teaspoon of turmeric powder in one cup of milk. Strain and drink it when it cools down. Drink this once a day for a few days.

5. Fights Cancer. Research at Ben Gurion University in Israel has shown that lemongrass tea can help fight cancer. A component called citral found in lemongrass causes apoptosis in cancer cells without damaging healthy cells. Simply put, it causes the cancer cells to commit suicide. In fact, to help the healing process, cancer patients in Israel are encouraged to take fresh lemongrass tea while undergoing radiation or chemotherapy treatments. Another study published in 2009 in the journal Fundamentals of Clinical Pharmacology found that citral in lemongrass slows the growth of breast cancer cells in the laboratory. Plus, there are several antioxidant properties in lemongrass that help lower your risk of cancer by fighting free radicals.

6. Reduces Arthritis Pain. Due to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, lemongrass helps treat arthritis, rheumatism, osteoarthritis, gout and other types of joint pain. Its anti-inflammatory properties help suppress the activity of cyclooxygenase-2, an enzyme involved in inflammation that causes pain, especially in joints. Plus, lemongrass helps to alleviate muscle spasms or sprains by relaxing the muscles, which in turn reduces the pain-related symptoms. You can mix lemongrass oil with coconut oil in a 1:2 ratio and rub it over the affected area. Leave it on for a few hours before rinsing it off. Do this daily for a few weeks. You can also drink lemongrass tea twice daily for best results.

7. Benefits For New Mothers. New Lemongrass is highly beneficial for new mothers who are breastfeeding their babies. It has galactogogue properties that help increase breast milk production. Its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties also help the babies remain healthy and free from infections. Lactating mothers can drink one to two cups of lemongrass tea daily. Note: Lemongrass should be avoided during pregnancy.

8. Fights Depression The antidepressant properties of lemongrass help treat depression. The herb also activates the release of serotonin, a chemical in the brain that combats depression. Lemongrass relieves anxiety, boosts self esteem, uplifts spirits, gives confidence and improves mental strength. Lemongrass also contains citronella, which is well known for its calming effect on the mind and body. It also helps you to sleep better. Drink a cup of lemongrass tea, whenever you feel depressed or have a low mood. The tea will help you keep calm and cool.

9. Reduces Body Odor Lemongrass oil in a diluted form works as an effective deodorant. In fact, beauty experts find lemongrass oil more effective than many of the synthetic deodorants available in the market. The main chemical component found in lemongrass is citral, which is aromatic. Plus, it has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that help control excessive sweating and destroy or inhibit microorganisms that cause body odor. In addition, lemongrass will not cause skin irritation or exacerbate skin allergies.

10. Keeps Skin Healthy. Lemongrass is also beneficial for your skin. It can help alleviate various skin issues, from large pores to fungal Due to its antibacterial, antiseptic and antifungal properties, lemongrass helps limit bacterial or microbial growth on the skin. This in turn helps keep your skin free of infections as well as lessen issues caused by bacterial or fungal infections. Plus, its acts as an astringent, helps minimize pores, limits the secretions of oil and makes the skin firm. Dilute lemongrass oil with water or another base, such as olive oil, before use. Mix one-half cup of freshly sliced lemongrass in one cup of olive oil and heat it for five minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to cool before applying on skin.

To sum up, to enjoy these health benefits of lemongrass, drink one to two cups of lemongrass tea daily. However, do not consume it if you are pregnant or taking any medications.

Today, where there is a renewed and still growing interest in herbs and herb teas, lemongrass tea would be one of the best choice instead of coffee.

Health Benefits of GUYABANO,
Health Benefits of GYNURA PROCUMBENS
Health Benefits of MALUNGGAY,
Health Benefits of SAMBONG (Alimhon)
Health Benefits of BANABA
Health Benefits of BASIL,

Health Benefits of BLUE TERNATEA
Health Benefits of ARATILES

Resources: https://www.thieme-connect.com/DOI/DOI?10.1055/s-2005-864146 http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/enhanced/doi/10.1111/j.1472-8206.2009.00738.x/ http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf0479766 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2586227

LEMONGRASS

We call this plant "Tanglad".

Lemongrass is a plant with thin, long leaves that is commonly grown in Asian countries such as the Philippines. As the name implies,lemongrass smells like lemon, but it tastes milder and sweeter. This herb is used in various Asian cuisines as a flavoring agent due to its potent flavor.

Lemongrass is usually added to"Tinolang Manok", a refreshing, chicken soup with bone chicken, papaya, pepper leaves. Hence, when one smells lemongrass, one couldn't help to think of the chicken soup.

Lemongrass is a good source of calcium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, iron, copper, zinc, magnesium, folic acid, folate as well as vitamins A and C and some vitamin B.

Lemongrass is also considered best remedy for various ailments. It has many beneficial medicinal properties including analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antipyretic, antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, astringent, carminative, diuretic, febrifuge, galactogogue, insecticidal, sedative, and anti-cancer properties. The leaves, stems and bulb of lemongrass are used in various treatments.

Fresh and dried lemongrass are readily available in the market. You can also get lemongrass essential oil and supplements.

Lemongrass tea is most often used in home remedies for various health issues. Dried lemongrass is brewed for 10 minutes in a cup of hot water and added with desired sweetener.

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Health Benefits of Lemongrass

Health Benefits of Malunggay

Health Benefits of Gynura Procumbens

Health Benefits of Sambong

Health Benefits of Guyabano

Health Benefits of Banaba

Saturday, April 18, 2015

HOW TO MAKE PESTO

Using my smoothie maker, I made my own Pesto.

Wash each leaves carefully in running water.

Dry the leaves.

You can make your own way to dry it. For me, it dries quicker this way.

Slice the leaves for easier and faster blending.

One third part of extra-virgin olive oil in the bottle below is enough for these leaves. Add 1 clove of finely chopped garlic. Push the leaves down with spoon before turning the blender on.

Combine grated cheese and tuna for a nice sandwich spread

In a food processor, you can combine all these ingredients before blending.

Saturday, March 28, 2015

Banaba

Banaba is a popular medicine plant and is used in treatment of diabetes mellitus. It is high in corosolic acid which is used in many treatments for diabetes. It is a natural plant insulin, can be taken orally, and has no side effects, according to Japanese research.

There has been much research done on Banaba leaves and their ability to reduce blood sugar, and its "insulin-like principle."

Banaba has been used as a folk medicine among people with diabetes in the Philippines. Folkloric use also includes diuretic and purgative action from leaf decoctions and the use of root parts for stomach ailments. The plant is being studied for its application in the treatment of diabetes.

Active ingredients that are found in Banaba are corsolic acid and tannins, including lagerstroemin. These ingredients are thought to stimulate glucose uptake and have insulin-like activity. The latter activity is thought to be secondary to activation of the insulin receptor tyrosine kinase or the inhibition of tyrosine phosphatase.

Banaba is a variety of crepe myrtle that grows in the Philippines, India, Malaysia and Australia. It is a deciduous, tropical, flowering tree that can grow to 18 m in height, with a 9 to 12 m spread. The large, oblong, dark-green, leathery leaves measure 5 to 10 cm wide by 12 to 30 cm long. The leaves turn an orange-red color in the fall. The flowers are pink to purple in color, giving way to oval, nut-like fruits. The bark of the tree is thin, mottled, and peeling.

In Japan, Banaba tea has become quite popular. In the US, many weight-loss formulas are now using banaba as a safe, natural component for reducing weight. Information regarding long-term human use is not available.

No adverse effects have been reported with its use.

Related Links

Basil
Gynura Procumbens

GYNURA PROCUMBENS

        It's not Ashitaba. It's Gynura Procumbens.

        My officemate introduced me to this plant. He was eating it raw. He said it was a miracle plant. Cures many kinds of illnesses particularly diabetes and hypertension. It's name was Ashitaba. When I googled it, I found out it's name is Gynura Procumbens.

         Gynura procumbens is believed to be one that possess the ability to lower blood pressure and sugar levels. Locals will recommend you to eat 3 – 7 leaves daily in the raw form. It has been used for the treatment of eruptive fevers, rash and kidney disease.

         Gynura procumbens is an amazing edible herb. It has been used as “FOLK MEDICINE” for hundreds of years. This herb has been found to be an extremely alkalizing and miraculous antiviral, anti-inflammatory edible plant. It is high in antioxidants and offers the possibility of remarkable results when it comes to improving overall health and longevity, and aiding in conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol. It's also been known to significantly support the detoxification process. Easy to grow, your entire family can be eating it in a matter of days. It multiplies quickly so you can share plants with your friends and relatives.

       Wikipedia states, Gynura procumbens (Sabuñgai), sometimes called "longevity spinach," is an edible vine found in the Philippines, the Malay Archipelago, Thailand, and Indo-China. Leaves are ovate-elliptic or lanceolate, 3.5 to 8 centimeters long, and 0.8 to 3.5 centimeters wide. Flowering heads are panicled, narrow, yellow, and 1 to 1.5 centimeters long.

           This plant is an evergreen scrub which is of considerable medicinal value. It has found its way around the world and is widely used as an accepted medicine for diabetes, HTN, and elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.

          The plant is popularly called as Ashitaba in our place. I shared it at home and was glad one day my mother found a plant. Now it has grown wild and my mother eats 3-4 leaves a day while toiling her plants in our small garden. A friend shared she mixes it with her sandwich spread during breakfast. I found an expensive container in an officemates table one day and was surprised to see it has gynura leaves in it. He has diabetes. Now, almost everyone I know in my place knows about it already and have plants in their homes. If you haven't got one yet, and have such illnesses, it's time you should. I eat 4-5 leaves a day, too. We combine it in our mixed vegetables for lunch and dinner.

Related links:

Sambong for kidney disorders or kidney stones.
Guyabano or Soursop a cancer cure.
Moringa Oleifera the miracle tree.
Health Benefits of Basil which is great for Pesto

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Sambong

We call it "alimhon" in our place.

Popularly known as Sambong or Blumea balsamifera, it is used to aid in the treatment of kidney disorders or kidney stones. Sambong leaves can also be used to treat colds and mild hypertension. Since it is a diuretic, this herbal medicine helps dispose of excess water and sodium (salt) in the body. Its expectorant properties make it as a popular recommendation to be taken in as tea to treat colds. Sambong is also a natural cleansing herb. I take a glass of sambong tea to cleanse my lungs of phlegm until it is gone.

Sambong is a native flowering or weed that is endemic in the Philippines and other tropical countries. It is a popular herb especially for its multitude of healing properties including anti-diarrhetic, anti-gastralgic, expectorant, stomachic, and antispasmodic, among others. Leaves can also be used for wounds and cuts.

Aside from these, sambong is also popular for stimulating the blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus. Sambong helps in relieving menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea by stimulating blood flow thereby helping women in releasing the molecular compounds called prostaglandins, which causes the uterus to contract and constrict the blood supply that causes the menstrual cramps.

Since the plant is emmenagogues, drinking the sambong tea is not advisable to pregnant women as well as women who wanted to be pregnant. Moreover, drinking sambong should also be regulated because it also has hallucinogenic effects when excessively consumed.

Sambong is one herbal medicine (of ten) approved by the Philippine Department of Health (DOH) as an alternative medicine in treating particular disorders.

Preaparation or use:

• A decoction (boil in water) of Sambong leaves as like tea and drink a glass 3 or 4 times a day.

• The leaves can also be crushed or pounded and mixed with coconut oil.
• For headaches, apply crushed and pounded leaves on forehead and temples.
• Decoction of leaves is used as sponge bath.
• Decoction of the roots, on the other hand, is to be taken in as cure for fever.

Other Benefits of Sambong

• Good as a diuretic agent
• Effective in the dissolving kidney stones
• Aids in treating hypertension & rheumatism
• Treatment of colds & fever
• Anti-diarrheic properties
• Anti-gastralgic properties
• Helps remove worms, boils
• Relief of stomach pains
• Treats dysentery, sore throat

Saturday, May 26, 2012

How To Make Banaba Capsule

This was how I made my homemade Banaba capsule.

Carefully wash the leaves.

Air drying the leaves


Roast for about 5 minutes. You may tear the leaves into smaller sizes so that more leaves can be powdered at the same time.

Arrange in a blender and blend until leaves turns into powder.

Sift the powder.

Empty gelatin capsules are available in leading drugstores.

In capsuling, proper hygiene must be observed. It is recommended to sanitize hands with alcohol, making sure under nails are clean. Wear mask while packing. You may wear a hair net.