Lagundi (Vitex negundo)

Lagundi (scientific name: Vitex

negundo) is a shrub that grows in
the Philippines. It is one of the ten
herbal medicines endorsed by the
Philippine Department of Health as
an effective herbal medicine with
proven therapeutic value.
Commonly known in the Ilocos
region as dangla, lagundi has been
clinically tested to be effective in
the treatment of colds, flu,
bronchial asthma, chronic
bronchitis, and pharyngitis. Studies
have shown that Lagundi can
prevent the body's production of
leukotrienes, which are released during an asthma attack. Lagundi contains Chrysoplenol D, a
substance with anti-histamine and muscle relaxant properties. Even in Japan, lagundi is
becoming recognized as an effective herbal medicine, especially since researches have shown
that it contains properties that make it an expectorant and it has been reported to function as a
tonic as well. More than that, most of the parts of the lagundi plant have medicinal value.

The roots of this shrub are also used as treatment for rheumatism, dyspepsia, boils, and leprosy.
The leaves, flowers, seeds, and root of Lagundi can all be used as herbal medicine. A decoction
is made by boiling the parts of the plant and taken orally. Today, Lagundi is available in capsule
form and syrup for cough. For its part, the flowers are recommended as a cardiac tonic, as cure
for liver diseases, and other internal disorders such as diarrhea and cholera. The lagundi plant
also has anti-inflammatory functions, and its cooling effects are ideal as treatment for skin
diseases such as leprosy.

Plant Description: The Lagundi plant can grow up to five meters tall. It can be described as a
cross between a shrub and a tree with a single woody stem (trunk). One of Lagundi's distinctive
features is its pointed leaves with five leaflets set like a hand.

Lagundi tablets (300 mg) are available from the Department of Health's Philippine Institute of
Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC) Telephone # (632) 727-6199.






Herbal Benefits of Lagundi:

Relief of asthma & pharyngitis
Recommended relief of rheumatism, dyspepsia, boils, diarrhea
Treatment of cough, colds, fever and flu and other bronchopulmonary disorders
Alleviate symptoms of Chicken Pox
Removal of worms, and boils

Preparation & Use:

Boil half cup of chopped fresh or dried leaves in 2 cups of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink
half cup three times a day.
For skin diseases or disorders, apply the decoction of leaves and roots directly on skin.
The root is specially good for treating dyspepsia, worms, boils, colic and rheumatism.

A decoction (boiling in water) of the roots and leaves of Lagundi are applied to wounds, and
used as aromatic baths for skin diseases. Boiled seeds are eaten in order to prevent the spreading
of toxins and venom from bites of poisonous animals. Juice extracted from the flowers of
Lagundi plant is taken in as an aid for disorders like fever, diarrhea, liver disorders, and even
cholera. While a decoction of the plant leaves is suggested to be taken by individuals to help
increase the flow and production of milk, as well as to induce menstruation.


Luyang Dilaw - Ginger (Zingiber officinale)



Luyang Dilaw, or Ginger Root (scientific
name: Zingiber officinale) belongs to the
family of, as its scientific name
signifies, Zingiberaceae. The rootstocks of
this erect, smooth plant are thick, and have
strong aromatic qualities. Its edible roots,
tops, and even its leaves are found to have
medicinal value. The taste of luyang dilaw
is distinct, brought about by the zingerone
and shogoal substances that it has, giving the plant its pungent properties. As an herbal medicine,
Luyang Dilaw has long been used as a cold, cough, fever, and sore throat remedy.

Ginger helps in the digestion and absorption of food, lowering of cholesterol, alleviating nausea
and vomiting. Luyang dilaw has antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory
properties as well. In the same way, it has been found to contain potent anti-oxidant qualities,
which come from the extract and active constituents of the plant. These uses are separate and
distinct from the nutritional value of luyang dilaw.

The rhizomes of luyang dilaw is mainly associated as the main ingredient in a very popular local
beverage, which is salabat. Recent studies have shown that luyang dilaw had been found with
traces of antiemetic properties. Thus, it is now being recommended to be taken half an hour
before ones travel to avoid being travelsick and experience nausea during the voyage. Pregnant
women should take precautionary measures in taking luyang dilaw for medicinal purposes
although it has been proven that none of the plants substances triggers adverse side effects, even
when it interacts with other drugs. This herbal plant is not recommended for expectant mothers
for the very reason that there is a possibility of inhibition of testosterones that binds the fetus, as
a result of some of the properties that luyang dilaw contains.

In India, ginger is widely used to reduce inflammation and pain with those with arthritis.
Researchers have found that ginger lowers pain-causing prostaglandin levels. They advise taking
500 to 1,000 milligrams a day. The higher the intake of ginger, the greater the relief.

Ginger also helps prevent hair loss. Pound an inch square of ginger and extract the juice.
Massage the fresh ginger juice directly on to the scalp and leave on for at least 15 minutes before
rinsing, but for best results, leave on overnight to better stimulate the hair follicles and induce
hair growth.

Medicinal Benefits of Luyang Dilao (Ginger Root):

Relieves rheumatic pains & muscle pains
Alleviates sore throat, fever and colds
Ease nausea and vomiting
Intestinal disorders and slow digestion
Relief from tympanism and flatulence
Treat intestinal worms
Hinder diarrhea, gas pains
Relieve indigestion (dyspepsia), toothaches
Lower cholesterol levels
Aids treatment of tuberculosis

Preparation & Use:

Boil the ginger root in water and drink. The more concentrated the better.
For sore throat and tooth ache, remove the skin and chew small portions.
For cuts & bruises, apply the juice of luyang-dilao directly to the skin or use dried rhizomes
with 70% alcohol then apply to afflicted areas.
For rheumatism and muscle pains, pound roasted or fresh ginger and apply to painful areas -can
be mixed with oil for easy application.



Malunggay (Moringa oleifera Lam.)

The malunggay plant is known to
different parts of the world under various
names including, but not limited to,
horseradish tree, drumstick tree, and dool
in some regions. It is one of the more
popular and publicized plant that is
acknowledged to have nutritional, as well
as, medicinal value. It is rich in vitamins
A, B & C, minerals such as iron and
amino acids. Fortunately, the plant is
easily accessible as it can be found not
only as part of the wild life, but also in the backyards of many Filipino homes. Malunggay
proves to be a low-maintenance plant to grow, and is able to propagate in almost all kinds of soil.
Most of the parts of the malunggay had been proven to be useful, both for consumption and for
its preparation as a medicinal plant. Its flowers, leaves and young pods are associated and
perceived to be important because of the health benefits that it provides.

The malunggay plant, which belongs to the Moringaceae family, can grow as high as nine
meters. The bark of this tree has a gummy quality in it, and when peered closely, is comprised of
white wood that is soft in nature. It derives one of its names, horseradish, from the taste of its
roots. The malunggay leaves, which are used in certain Filipino viands, have a very distinct
shape that makes it easily recognizable. They are circular, thin sheets that are attached to a main
stalk. The malunggay flowers are white fragrances that produce the pods, which are also used for
medicinal purposes.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF MALUNGGAY

As have been mentioned earlier, there are various parts of the malunggay plant which are being
used for health reasons. For one, the leaves of this plant proved to be a good source of calcium,
iron, ascorbic acid and phosphorus. Its other parts such as the seeds, the young pods, and the
flowers have been established to benefit individuals as far as anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic,
circulatory stimulations, and such other activities that are most beneficial to mankind, are
concerned. There have been claims that malunggay can be used to lower blood pressure, aid in
pains caused by rheumatism, headaches and migraines, as well as its being an anti-tumor plant.
Malunggay is also used for purgative and anti-fungal purposes, as well. All these prove the claim
that this plant is indeed multi-purpose.

There are various ways to derive the benefits from malunggay plant. Aside from the natural and
direct means, wherein one is going to prepare the concoctions at home by picking the necessary
parts from the plant itself, one can also purchase the commercial extractions of malunggay.
There are malunggay capsules that are now available in the market, which contain 250mg dried
young leaves of the malunggay plant. In the same way, there are commercial oil extracts of the
malunggay flowers which are also in the market. Because of the popularity that has been
associated with this plant, commercial establishments have exploited the malunggays
marketable qualities. For simple preparations however, as when the concoction would be used
for uncomplicated ailments like hiccups, as a means to end constipation, or as wound cleanser,
one may eat the cooked leaves of the malunggay plant during his last meals of the day. This
should be accompanied by water, especially when the ailment to be addressed is constipation.
Now, as wound cleanser, the leaves may be crushed and applied to the affected area directly. In
all instances, cleanliness should be observed to avoid complications.


Bayabas or Guava (Psidium guajava)



Bayabas or guava is a tropical plant,
which is locally known for its edible fruit.
In the backyards of Filipino homes in the
country, this plant is commonly seen, and
grown because of its many uses as fruit
and as traditional remedy to treat various
ailments. As shown by many research
studies, almost all of the parts of this
plant have medicinal qualities and value, and thus, making it as one of the most popular
therapeutic plants in the Philippines. Bayabas is a small tree that can grow up to 3 meters tall
with greenish-brownish smooth bark. The round globular bayabas fruit starts as a flower and is
usually harvested and eaten while still green. The fruit turns yellowish-green and soft when ripe.

The bayabas fruit bark and leaves are used as herbal medicine. Its leaves decoction is recognized
for its effectiveness to cure several ailments, including the treatment of uterine hemorrhage,
swollenness of the legs and other parts of the body, of chronic diarrhea, and gastroenteritis,
among others. The most common use of the leaves is for cleaning and disinfecting wounds by
rinsing the afflicted area with a decoction of the leaves. In the same way, such leaves are being
used to aid in the treatment of dysentery and the inflammation of the kidneys. The bark and
leaves can be used as astringent. It can also be used as a wash for uterine and vaginal problems,
and is good for ulcers. The medicinal uses of Bayabas appear infinite, as it is also a suggested
natural cure for fevers, diabetes, epilepsy, worms, and spasms. The fruit, aside from being
delicious, contains nutritional values with a very high concentration of vitamin A and vitamin C.

Uses of Bayabas :

Antiseptic, astringent & anthelminthic
Kills bacteria, fungi and ameba
Used to treat diarrhea, nosebleeding
For Hypertension, diabetes and Asthma
Promotes menstruation

The fresh leaves are used to facilitate the healing of wounds and cuts. A decoction (boiling in
water) or infusion of fresh leaves can be used for wound cleaning to prevent infection. Bayabas
is also effective for toothaches. Note: Bayabas can cause constipation when consumed in excess.

Preparation:

Boil one cup of Bayabas leaves in three cups of water for 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool.
Use decoction as mouthwash, gargle.
Use as wound disinfectant - wash affected areas with the decoction of leaves 2 to 3 times a day.
Fresh leaves may be applied to the wound directly for faster healing.
For toothaches, chew the leaves in your mouth.
For diarrhea, boil the chopped leaves for 15 minutes in water, and strain. Let cool, and drink a
cup every three to four hours.
To stop nosebleed, densely roll Bayabas leaves, then place in the nostril cavities.


Carrot (Daucus carota L.)

Carrot (Karot in Filipino) is an outstanding
trait of this flowering plant, which belongs
to the family ofApiaceae, is that it is self-
fertile. By nature, carrot's flowers have
both male and female organs, and are
usually pollinated primarily by beetles and
flies. In order to facilitate the cultivation of
this plant, it is necessary to place it in an area where it can receive light. It has a strong rate of
survival, because it can withstand strong winds. However, the carrot plant cannot bear to be
exposed to salty water and soil. It is a biennial plant, which means that it usually takes two years
for it to complete its life cycle. However, it is not uncommon for plants of this nature to complete
its biological life cycle in a few months time, especially when subjected to extreme climate
conditions.
Carrot is classified as a root vegetable, which grows as tall as one (1) meter. The wild carrot,
from which the modern carrots cultivation is based, has flowers that are rounded, which are
bright white in color when it is in full bloom. Such flowers have the width of 3 to 7 centimeters,
and the vegetable itself is known to have various colors, such as orange, red, purple, yellow or
white.
Carrots are extremely popular because of its numerous uses, and because of the many vitamins
and minerals that it contains. For instance, its roots are edible, whether cooked or raw, and are
used as an ingredient to soups and salad bowls. It has been found that carrot root juice is very
rich in carotene, which in turn is converted to vitamin A by our liver, and is one of the vitamins
that the body needs. Regular intake of carrot roots, in any manner, though recommended to be
taken in juice form, improves eyesight. Particular substances that are contained in the roots have
been discovered to be anti-cancer. That is the primary reason why carrot juice has become a
popular drink, as it is associated with a wealth of health benefits. The roots of the carrot plant,
when roasted, are also being used as a substitute for coffee. Extractions from the roots, known as
carotene, are also being used commercially as a food dye. The leaves of this plant, which have
high vitamin E content, are also being used as flavorings for soup. From the derived uses of this
plant, it is evident that its roots, seeds, and leaves have particular functions which are known to
be utilized by many.
Carrots have been known to have medicinal properties that allow it to be used as an astringent
and antiseptic substance. Carrot has been used as a cleansing medicine, because of its activities
which basically helps the kidney in the removal of waste in the body. It also aids in the
stimulation of ones menstruation because of the same properties. For children, raw carrot roots
are a safe and recommended treatment for threadworms. In the same manner, regular intake of
cultivated carrot roots allows the stimulation of urine flow. It manifests activities that help the
skin, by virtue of its anti-oxidant contents.
Carrot Health Benefits:
Body cleanser, and is a medication for kidney problems
Treatment for cough and chest pains
Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic function helps solve burns, ulcer and infected wounds
Preparation & Use:
Boil with milk, and drink for cough
Poultice of carrots may be applied to infected wounds and to the chest, in case it is going to be
used to aid in an individuals chest pains
Ground seeds of the plant may be taken as tea, in order to increase urine flow


Gumamela (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn)


ABOUT GUMAMELA
Gumamela is a shrub that grows from one
meter up to 4 meters high. Gumamela is also
known as: Hibiscus, China Rose and
Shoeflower. In the Philippines, gumamela is
cultivated as an ornamental plant. The
gumamela flower comes in many colors: red, yellow, orange, white, purple, pink and other color
combinations.

Gumamela leaves, usually blended with Rose Hip has long been used in the Middle East and
Okinawa as herbal tea. Today, the use of gumamela tea is gaining worldwide popularity -
including Asia. Gumamela (Hibiscus) is associated with longevity.
Gumamela as Herbal Medicine
As herbal medicine, gumamela flower, leaves and roots are used. Gumamela has the following
medicinal characteristics: expectorant, diuretic, emollient, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory,
antipyretic, anodyne and refrigerant.
Preparation & Use of Gumamela:
There are two ways to utilize gumamela as herbal medicine. One is dried and the other is fresh.
For Dried gumamela, collect the flower, leaves and/or roots. Wash, then cut into small pieces
and sun dry. To use as decoction, boil the dried gumamela parts (1/4 cup dried gumamela in 1
glass of water)

To make a decoction from fresh gumamela, Wash gumamela flower and/or leaves, cut into small
pieces and boil (1/3 cup in 1 glass of water), let cool and drink.
Use Gumamela as Poultice:
Poultice is the use or fresh or dried herbs that is mashed, crushed or pounded - often heated
(boiled in water to soften and heat the herb) and applied directly to the skin. A clean cloth or
gauze can be used to help the poultice stay in place.



Gumamela is used for the treatment of:

Bronchitis - as an expectorant
Coughs, sore throat
Fever - as refrigerant drink
Treats dysentery
Urinary tract infection, bladder infections
High blood pressure
Prevention of constipation
Headaches
Boils, swelling & abscesses, mumps
Application & Use of Gumamela:
Decoction is used to treat: Bronchitis, coughs, fever, dysentery, urinary and bladder infections,
high blood pressure and constipation.
Poultice is applied externally on the afflicted area. This is used to treat: headaches (on the
forehead), boils, swelling, abscesses and mumps.
Intake of gumamela (alone or mixed with papaya or papaya seeds) specially in large quantities
can be an abortifacient.







Mabolo (Diospyros blancoi)Velvet Apple

A member of the Ebenaceae family,
mabolo is known for its value as an
ornament, rather than for its fruit. Its
wood is commonly known in the
Philippines as kamagong, and it is the
fruit that goes by the name of mabolo.
It is an evergreen forest tree that is
medium-sized, and has an oval or
conical-shaped crown. Depending on the
way it was planted, a mabolo tree may have long, straight stems or short trunks.
Its leaves are oblong-shaped, which are big and rounded but are pointed and
narrow at the top. The mabolo fruit has a round, velvety outer cover which contains
the seed in a pulp. From green, it becomes light brown and eventually, turns to
magenta as this fruit berry ages and ripens. It is somewhat unpopular because of
the strong cheesy odor that it emits, once the fruit is opened. When eaten, though,
the mobolo fruit has an edible and sweet taste. The concern about its smell may be
remedied by peeling its outside cover, and storing it in the refrigerator for several
hours, so that the smell will already dissipate. Studies have shown that it is worthy
to endure the odor of the fruit, because it has been found to contain several
vitamins and nutrients. It is known to be an ideal source of calcium, vitamin B, iron,
and protein. Thus, several ways of preparing the mabolo fruit has been constantly
discovered. It is served as dessert, by mixing the fruit with lemon juice or lime. It is
also used in salad preparations, by dicing the fruit. In the same manner, it is used
as ingredients in soups, where it changes texture and becomes tough when stewed.
This is ideal especially when served with ham and other meats that have a spicy
quality in it.

Mabolo is grown commercially, but at a small scale only, as it can be found along
the seashores by the locals in the Philippines. There are several uses for the mabolo
plant and fruits, because of its commercial value. It is a very useful plant, in such a
way that not only does it have ornamentation significance; but it also contains
nutritional benefits and medicinal functions as well. The parts that are being utilized
for this purpose are the leaves, bark, and the roots. Its bark is being utilized in
such a manner that it is being decocted and prepared to address skin ailments like
eczema, fever and cough. Now, some of the uses vary depending on the country.
For instance, in countries in the Southeast Asia, diarrhea and dysentery are being
remedied extracting the juice of the unripe mabolo fruit. In Bangladesh,
preparations of the mabolo leaves and bark are being used as cleanser, particularly
as eyewash and also used as an antidote for snakebites. In the Guianas, besides
the already mentioned uses, mabolo preparations also function to address heart
ailment and hypertension. Spider bites, stomach aches and diabetes are also three
of the other health issues that mabolo has been found to help remedy.

Mabolo Health Benefits:
Cough, stomach pains, fever, and skin ailments are treated by preparations of the mobolo
leaves and bark.
Used as medicine for diarrhea, dysentery, heart ailments, hypertension and diabetes.

Preparation & Use:
Decoctions of the bark and leaves of mabolo are used for all the health concerns that have
been listed on the left.


Makabuhay (Tinospora rumphii Boerl)

The makabuhay plant is a clinging vine, and the name
itself suggests the primary purpose of such plant.
Makabuhay is a Filipino translation of the English
term pro-life or to give life. It is commonly known as
the paliahan in the Visayas region. The plant belongs
to the family of Menispermaceae, and can grow, or
rather climb, up to fifteen meters long. The makabuhay
leaves are thin sheets that are heart-shaped, and its
flowers look distinct as they only have three petals.
The makabuhay plant is known for its bitter nature,
and the fruits of this plant are held in clusters, which
can be as long as two centimeters. This plant may be
propagated by planting its stem, which contains a
bitter sap. However, it is important to note that
makabuhay can be found in most forests all over the
Philippines. It grows in tropical areas, and it is of little
wonder why it is abundant in a country like the
Philippines. The fruits of this plant have not been
utilized nor established to have medicinal values. Only the leaves and the stems of makabuhay
have been found to cure particular health concerns. For the stems, both the dried and the fresh
stems are found to be beneficial.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF MAKABUHAY PLANT

The stem of makabuhay plant is a primary ingredient used to concoct preparations that would
prevent spread of malaria, and may be used as cleanser for skin ulcer and skin wounds. Clinical
tests have shown that the decoction of this plant cures diarrhea, indigestion and scabies. Also, it
is an effective ointment for pains caused by rheumatism. However, young children below the age
of three, pregnant women, patients with typhoid fever, those who are suffering from pneumonia,
and people diagnosed with heart problems, should not in any way take decoction that contains
makabuhay, because their weak state will be in conflict with the strong medicinal effects that it
manifests.

Preparation and Use of Makabuhay

It has been mentioned earlier that this plant have several medicinal uses. Thus, the form,
preparation, and manner of intake also vary according to the purpose for which it will be taken.
For instance, when makabuhay is going to be used as an ointment for rheumatism, its preparation
is different in such a manner that the stems have to be chopped. It is suggested that the chopped
stems amount to one-half glass and such stems are supposed to be fried for five minutes in a
glass of coconut oil, under low fire. Then, the stems are to be separated after frying, after which
glass of grated candle wax should be incorporated to it. As soon as the wax have already
dissolved and cooled down, the prepared ointment can already be applied to the body, except for
the face, for three successive nights.

A similar preparation is to be observed when makabuhay is to be used to eradicate intestinal
worms, and cure fever brought about by malaria. However, instead of sauting, the stems are
supposed to be boiled. In preparing this particular decoction, 30 grams of fresh makabuhay
stems, or 25 grams of dried ones, are supposed to be boiled for twenty minutes in three cups of
water. The extracts can be derived by subjecting the boiled preparation in a strainer, therefore
removing the stems from the substance that are necessary to address the health concern
discussed. The preparation should be taken and drank in half a cup, twice a day before the first
and last meals of the day. Like any other medicinal plant preparation, should there be
complications suffered or no marked improvements seen after administering the said preparation,
treatment should be discontinued and a physician is to be consulted.










Niyog-Niyogan (Quisqualis I ndica L.)



Niyog-niyogan or Rangoon Creeper is an
excellent vine for outdoor gardens. This
ligneous plant, scientifically
called Quisqualis indica L. It is also
known as Burma or Rangoon Creeper,
Liane Vermifuge and Chinese
honeysuckle. Niyog-niyogan is perfect
for covered walkways as it grows at least
2.5m long and reaches up to 8m long
when it matures. This active climber, which belongs to the combretaceae family grows best in
tropical areas and demands constant sunlight. Perhaps due to its tropical characterization that it is
found in primary and secondary forests of countries like Africa, China, Taiwan, Malaysia,
Philippines, Vietnam, Papua New Guinea and other Asian regions.

Niyog-niyogan is cultivated in greenhouses and can be naturalized in tropical areas. This vine
starts as a shrub about 3-feet tall with branches growing from all directions. The mother shrub
seizes to grow and dies after six months allowing the creeper to rapidly climb walls, trees, and
the like. The branches of niyog-niyogan are filled with oblong-shaped leaves growing on
opposite sides attached to 6mm to 10mm long petioles. The leaves of niyog-niyogan can grow up
to 15cm long and more than 5cm wide with a pointed tip. Its flowers grow in clusters and it
blossoms year-round. Its flowers open at night with five bright red petals and gives out a distinct
perfume. The young flowers of niyog-niyogan start with white-colored petals that turn pink then
red as it matures. It also bears fruits, which can grow up to 3cm long with five angles on its
sides.

The niyog-niyogan plant grows in haste during the rainy season, hence constant pruning is
especially recommended during this time. It is advised to place this plant in spacious areas to
avoid crowding with a temperature of at least 60F with evenly moistened soil to produce
flowers. Niyog-niyogan can thrive in almost all kinds of soil and can even tolerate moderate
amount of drought in cold seasons.


Benefits & Treatment of Niyog-Niyogan:

Almost all of its parts are used individually, or mixed with other ingredients, as remedy to
different ailments. In the Philippines, these are taken to rid people of parasitic worms. Some also
use these to help alleviate coughs and diarrhea. Medical experts, advice patients to consult their
doctors as improper dosing may cause hiccups. Niyog-niyogans leaves are used to cure body
pains by placing them on specific problematic areas of the body. Compound decoctions of the
leaves of niyog-niyogan are used in India to alleviate flatulence.

Preparation & Use:

Seeds of niyog-niyogan can be taken as an anthelmintic. These are eaten raw two hours before
the patients last meal of the day. Adults may take 10 seeds while children 4 to 7 years of age
may eat up to four seeds only. Children from ages 8 to 9 may take six seeds and seven seeds may
be eaten by children 10 to 12 years old.

Decoctions of its roots are also sometimes used as a remedy for rheumatism while its fruits are
used as an effective way to relieve toothaches.



Ampalaya
BITTER GOURD / BITTER MELON

Ampalaya is a climbing vine, nearly or quite
smooth, annual vine. Tendrils are simple, up
to 20 centimeters long. Leaves are 2.5 to 10
centimeters in diameter, cut nearly to the
base into 5 to 7 lobes, oblong-ovate, variously
toothed, and heart-shaped at the base. Male
flower is about 12 millimeters long, and is
peduncled, with a rounded, green, and about
1 centimeter long bract approximately at the
middle. Female flower is yellow flower, about
15 millimeters long, long-stalked with pair of
small leaflike bracts at middle or toward base
of stalk. Fruit, in cultivated form, is green,
fleshy, oblong, cylindric, 15 to 25 centimeters
long, pointed at both ends, ribbed and
wrinkled, bursting when mature to release seeds; in wild forms, ovoid, about 2
to 4 centimeters long. Seeds are oblong, compressed 10 to 13 millimeters
long, and corrugated on the margins.

Uses
Edibility / Nutritional
- Both wild and cultivated forms are edible.
- Fruit of wild form usually roasted over fire and eaten with salt or "heko."
- The leaves and fruit - used as vegetables - are excellent sources of Vit B,
iron, calcium, and phosphorus. It has twice the amount of beta carotene in
broccoli and twice the calcium content of spinach. Characteristically bitter-
tasting, slight soaking in salty water before cooking removes some of the bitter
taste of the fruit.
- In India, fruit eaten in curries.
Folkloric
- In the Philippines, juice expressed from the green fruit is given for chronic
colitis: also used for bacillary dysentery.
- Astringent powdered leaves or root decoction can be applied to
hemorrhoids.
- Leaf juice for cough and as a purgative and anthelminthic to expel intestinal
parasites, and for healing wounds.
- Seeds also used to expel worms.
- The vine or the juice of leaves used as mild purgative for children.
- In large doses, the fresh juice is a drastic purgative.
- Decoction of roots and seeds used for urethral discharges.
- Juice of leaves used for chronic coughs.
- Leaves and shoots used as vulnerary.
- Sap of leaves used as parasiticide.
- Fruit macerated in oil used as vulnerary.
- Fruit considered tonic and stomachic; used in rheumatism, gout, and
diseases of the spleen and liver.
- Pounded leaves used for scalds.
- Infusion of leaves or leaf juice used for fevers.
- Used for chronic stomach ulcers.
- Root sometimes used as ingredient in aphrodisiac preparations.
- Decoction of root used as abortifacient.

Philippine News: Diabetes Mellitus
A Philippine herb that has recently gained international recognition for its
possible benefits in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Despite its bitter taste,
it has also become a popular nutritional drink for a boost of vim and vigor. In
fact, the more bitter, the better, as it is believed that the bitterness is
proportionate to its potency.
Studies have suggested that ampalaya contains a hypoglycemic
polypeptide, a plant insulin responsible for its blood sugar lowering effect.
Other benefits suggested were body detoxification (including removal of
nicotine), strengthening of the immune system and fertility regulation.
It is increasingly recommended as an adjunct or supplement to traditional
therapeutic regimens for diabetes mellitus.


Bawang/GARLIC
Bawang is a low herb, 30 to 60 centimeters high. True stem is much reduced. Bulbs are broadly
ovoid, 2 to 4 centimeters in diameter, consisting of several, densely crowded, angular and
truncated tubers. Leaves are linear and flat. Umbels are globose, many flowered. Sepals are
oblong, greenish white, slightly tinged with purple. Stamens are not exerted from the perianth.

Distribution
- Extensively grown in Batangas, Nueva Ecija, Ilocos Norte, Mindoro, and Cotobato.
- A native of southern Europe.
- Now widely cultivated in most parts of the world.
Properties
Antibacterial, antihelminthic, antimycotic, antiviral, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, expectorant,
fibrinolytic, hypotensive, promoting leucocytosis, lipid lowering and platelet aggregation
inhibition.
Uses
Edibility / Culinary
- Widely used by Filipinos for flavoring dishes.
Folkloric
- In the Philippines, bulbs used for hypertension. Also used as diuretic, and eaten fresh or burned
for coughs in children.
- Arthritis, rheumatism, toothaches: Crush several cloves and rub on affected areas.
- Crush clove applied to both temples as poultice for headache.
- Crush garlic or cut clove crosswise and rub directly to areas of insect bites.
- Decoction of leaves and bulbs for fever and as hypotensive, carminative, expectorant, and
antihelmintic.
- Juice from freshly crushed garlic used for colds, cough, sore throat, hoarseness, asthma and
bronchitis.
- Decoction use for tonsillitis.
- Steam inhalation of chopped garlic and a teaspoon of vinegar in boiling water used for nasal
congestion.
- Fresh garlic has been used as a complement to INH therapy for tuberculosis. In Mexico, fresh
bulb is eaten as a preventive for tuberculosis.
- In India, garlic juice diluted in water, applied externally to prevent hair from turning grey.
- Diluted juice used for earaches and deafness.
- In the Antilles, used as vermifuge.
- Also used for menstrual cramps.
- Used for digestive problems and gastrointestinal spasms.
- Infusion of a peeled broiled clove used for gas pains.
- Juice of bulb with common salt applied to bruises and sprains; also used for neuralgia and
earache.
- Rubbed over ringworm for soothing effect.
- In WWI, fresh raw juice was used as antiseptic for control of wound suppuration.

Studies
Antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic: Topically, ajoene 0.4% cream, has been found 70%
effective in certain dermatologic fungal infections. A 0.6% gel was effective in tinea corporis
and tinea cruris.
Anticandidal: Study on the mode of action of aqueous garlic extract (AGE) against Candida
albicans showed garlic treatment affected the structure and integrity of the outer surface of the
yeast cells. Growth was affected in a number of ways: decreased total lipid content, higher
phosphatidylserines and lower phosphatidylcholines, and decrease oxygen consumption of AGE-
treated C. albicans. AGE exerts its effect by oxidation of thiol groups causing enzyme
inactivation and subsequent microbial growth inhibition.
Hypertension: Studies suggest a beneficial antihypertensive effect but blood-lowering effects
probably not dramatic. Other studies show a vascular benefit through improvement of aortic
elasticity and possible slowing of the rate of atherosclerosis progression.
Anti-cancer / Chemoprotective: (1) Possible anticarcinogenic properties, specifically colon,
stomach and prostate cancers. In stomach cancers, probably through its inhibitory effect on H.
pylori. In epidemiologic studies on stomach and colorectal cancer prevention, the garlic use was
3.5 grams to 30 grams of fresh or cooked garlic per week. (2) Study showed garlic may have an
adjuvant effect on various defense mechanisms against DMBA-induced carcinogenesis in sub-
maxillary salivary glands of rat through increased availability or utilization of beta-carotene.
Hepatoprotective / Hematologic Effects: Study results on female Wistar rats suggest garlic
and vitamin C have some hepatoprotective and hematological effects.
Antidiabetic: Study results of ethanolic extracts of AS in normal and streptozotocin-induced
diabetic rats suggest that A. sativum can be considered an excellent candidate for future studies
on diabetes mellitus.

Yerba Buena / MINT, PEPPER MINT

Hierba buena is a prostrate, smooth , much-
branched, usually purplish, strongly aromatic
herb, with stems growing up to 40
centimeters long, with ultimate ascending
terminal branches. Leaves are elliptic to
oblong-ovate, 1.5 to 4 centimeters long,
short-stalked with toothed margins, and
rounded or blunt tipped. Flowers are hairy
and purplish to bluish, borne in axillary
headlike whorls. Calyx teeth are triangular or
lanceolate and hairy; the corolla is also hairy.

Distribution
- Native of Europe.
- Introduced by the Spaniards.
- Widely cultivation to some extent in all
parts of the Philippines.
- Thrives well at high elevations; rarely
flowers in lowlands.

Constituents
- Plant yields a volatile oil (0.22%) containing pulegone, menthol, menthene, menthenone and
limonene.
- Study showed the shoot leaf gave the highest yield of oil, 0.62%; while the stems had
negligible yield. Menthol was the major component of all the oils. Other oils identified were: B-
caryophyllene oxide, a-phellandrene, terpinolene, limonene, menthone and pulegone.
- Phytochemical screening of powdered plant samples (root, stem, and leaves) yielded alkaloids,
polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, cardiac glycosides, and diterpenes.
Properties
- Carminative, stimulant, stomachic, aromatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, sudorific,
emmenagogue.
- Oil is rubefacient and stimulant.
- Tops and leaves are carminative.

Parts utilized
Leaves and stems.
Uses
Nutritional
- Cultivated as a spice for cooking.
- Leaves used for tea.
- Used in salads to provide flavor.
- Used as a flavoring in confections and dentrifices.
Folkloric
- One of the oldest household remedies known.
- In the Philippines, tops and leaves are considered carminative; when bruised used as antidote to
stings of poisonous insects.
- Mint is used in neuralgic affections, renal and vesical calculus.
- Used for stomach weakness and diarrhea.
- Decoction and infusion of leaves and stems used for fever, stomach aches, dysmenorrhea, and
diuresis.
- Pounded leaves for insect bites, fevers, toothaches, headaches.
- Crushed fresh plants or leaves are sniffed for dizziness.
- Powdered dried plant as dentrifice.
- Crushed leaves are applied on the forehead and temples for headaches.
- For toothaches: (1) Wet a small piece of cotton with juice expressed from crushed leaves; apply
this impregnated cotton bud to the tooth. (2) Boil 6 tbsp. of leaves in two glasses of water for 15
minutes; strain and cool. Divide the decoction into 2 parts and take every 3 to 4 hours.
- For flatulence: Boil 4 tbsp of chopped leaves in 1 cup water for five minutes; strain. Drink the
decoction while lukewarm. Facilitates expulsion of flatus.
- Alcohol or ether extract used as local anesthetic for affections of the nose, pharynx, and larynx.
- Used for obstinate vomiting of pregnancy.
- An alcoholic solution of menthol has been used as inhalation for asthma. Menthol is also used
as local anesthesia for headache and facial neuralgia.
- Decoction or vapor from menthol used with lemon grass as febrifuge. Also used in hiccups.
- Plant used as emmenagogue; also used in jaundice.
- Dried plant used as dentrifice.
- Leaves and stems used as carminative, antispasmodic, and sudorific.
- Infusion of leaves used for indigestion, rheumatic pans, arthritis and inflamed joints.
- For coughs, boil 6 tbsp of chopped leaves in 2 glasses of water for 15 mins; cool and strain.
Divide the decoction into three parts; take 1 part 3 times a day.
- Diluted essential oil used as wash for skin irritations, burns, pruritus, scabies, ringworm and as
mosquito repellent.
- For arthritis, warm fresh leaves over low flame; then pound. Apply pounded leaves while warm
on the painful joints or muscles.
- As mouthwash, soak 2 tbsp chopped leaves in 1 glass of hot water for 30 minutes; strain. Use
the infusion as mouthwash.


Sambong / BLUMEA CAMPHOR

Sambong is a half woody, strongly
aromatic shrub, densely and softly
hairy, 1 to 4 meters high. Stems grow
up to 2.5 centimeters in diameter.
Leaves are simple, alternate, elliptic- to
oblong-lanceolate, 7 to 20 centimeters
long, toothed at the margins, pointed or
blunt at the tip, narrowing to a short
petiole which are often auricled or
appendaged. Flowering heads are
stalked, yellow and numerous, 6 to 7
millimeters long, and borne on
branches of a terminal, spreading or
pyramidal leafy panicle. Discoid
flowers are of two types: peripheral
ones tiny, more numerous, with tubular
corolla; central flowers few, large with
campanulate corolla. Involucral bracts
are green, narrow and hairy. Anther
cells tailed at base. Fruits are achenes,
dry, 1-seeded, 10-ribbed, hairy at top.



Distribution
- Common in open fields, grasslands and waste areas at low and medium altitudes.
- Flowering from February to April.
- Propagation by cuttings and layering.
- Also occurs in China, Hainan, Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand,
Vietnam.
Constituents
Volatile oil, 0.1 - 0.4% - l-borneol, 25%, l-camphor, 75%, limonene, saponins, sesquiterpene
and limonene, tannins, sesquiterpene alcohol; palmitin; myristic acid.
Yields flavonoids, terpenes (borneol, limonene, camphor, a-pinene, b-pinene, 3-carene,
sesquiterpenes, monoterpenes, triteroenes, and cryptomeridiol), lactones (blumealactone A, B,
C).
- Fractionation of ethylacetate extract of leaves isolated nine flavonoids.
- Main essential oil components are 1,8-cineole (20.98%), borneol (11.99%), -caryophyllene
(10.38%), camphor (8.06%), 4-terpineol (6.49%), -terpineol (5.91%), and caryophyllene oxide
(5.35%).
Properties
- Considered anthelmintic, antidiarrheal, antigastralgic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative,
emmenagogue, expectorant, stomachic, and vulnerary.
Parts utilized
Leaves (fresh or dried) and young roots before flowering.
Mature, healthy, fully expanded leaves are harvested while senescent leaves are discarded. Air-
dry until they crumble when crushed with the fingers. Store in amber colored bottles in a cool,
dry place.
Uses
Edibility
- Leaves used a flavoring ingredient.
Folkloric
- Leaves as poultice for abscesses.
- Decoction of roots and leaves for fevers, kidney stones, and cystitis.
- Decoction of leaves used to induced diuresis for purpose of treating kidney stones.
- Sitz-bath of boiled leaves, 500 gms to a gallon of water, for rheumatic pains of waist and back.
- Used in upper and lower respiratory tract affections like sinusitis, asthmatic bronchitis,
influenza.
- Applied while hot over the sinuses. Used for wounds and cuts.
Fresh juice of leaves to wounds and cuts.
- Poultice of leaves applied to the forehead for relief of headaches.
- Tea is used for colds and as an expectorant; likewise, has antispasmodic and antidiarrheal
benefits.
Postpartum baths.
Others
- Pesticide: Roots and leaves used as natural pesticides against storage pests and leaf hoppers in
rice.

Preparations
Fever: decoction of roots; boil 2 - 4 handfuls of the leaves. Use the lukewarm decoction as a
sponge bath.
Headaches: apply pounded leaves on the forehead and temples. Hold in place with a clean piece
of cloth.
Gas distention: boil 2 tsp of the chopped leaves in 1 cup of water for 5 minutes. Drink the
decoction while warm. Also used for upset stomach.
Postpartum, for mothers' bath after childbirth.
Boils: Apply pounded leaves as poultice daily.
Diuretic: Boil 2 tbsp chopped leaves in 2 glasses of water for 15 minutes. Take 1/2 of the
decoction after every meal, 3 times a day.

Studies
Sesquiterpenoids and Plasmin-Inhibitory Flavonoids: Study yielded two new
sesquiterpenoid esters 1 and 2. Compound 2 showed to be slightly cytotoxic. Nine known
flavonoids were also isolated, two of which showed plasmin-inhibitory activity. (2)
Anticancer / Hepatoma: Study of methanolic extract of BB suggest a possible therapeutic
potential in hepatoma cancer patients. (1)
Anticancer / Growth Inhibitory Effect / Hepatoma: Study of B balsamifera extract induced
growth-inhibitory activity in rat and human hepatocellular carcinoma cells without cytotoxicity.
Findings suggest a possible therapeutic role for the B balsamifera methanol extract in treatment
of hepatoma cancer patients. (6)
Urolithiasis / Calcium Stones: Study shows sambong to be a promising chemolytic agent for
calcium stones. (3)
Antispasmodic / Cryptomeridiol: Study isolated cryptomeridio from the dried leaves. Results
showed antispasmodic activity from various plant parts.
Antifungal / Antibacterial: Phytochemical study of leaves yielded icthyothereol acetate,
cyptomeridiol, lutein and -carotene. Antimicrobial tests showed activity against A niger, T
mentagrophytes and C albicans. Results also showed activity against P aeruginosa, S aureus, B
subtilis and E coli. (7)
Dihydroflavonol / Abrogation of TRAIL Resistance in Leukemia Cells: Study shows
combined treatment with a dihydroflavonol extracted from Blumea balsamifera exhibited the
most striking synergism with TRAIL (tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-related apoptosis-inducing
ligand) and suggests a new strategy for cancer therapy. (8)
Antibacterial: Study of 12 crude alcoholic and aqueous extracts from 5 medicinal plants,
including B balsamifera, showed potential antibacterial effect against S aureus.
Radical Scavenging: Study of Blumea balsamifera extracts and flavonoids showed the
methanol extract exhibiting higher radical scavenging activity than the chloroform extract.








Makopa / MALAY APPLE, TERSANA ROSE APPLE

Makopa is a tree reaching a height of 10 meters. Leaves are pinkish when young. Older
leaves are large, drooping, elliptic-oblong to broadly oblong-lanceolate, 15 to 30 centimeters
long, 7 to 15 centimeters wide, narrowed and pointed at both ends. Flowers are large, showy,
crimson, 5 to 6 centimeters in diameter, borne on the branches below the leaves, clustered on
short, few-flowered racemes, 6 centimeters long or less. Fruit is shiny, oblong or pear-shaped, 5
to 7.5 centimeters long, either white splashed, striped with pink, or wholly crimson to purplish,
and slightly shiny, seedless or one-seeded. Flesh is white, pithy, juicy. Although rather tasteless,
some varieties have a pleasant flavor.
Distribution
- Cultivated for its edible fruit.
- Nowhere naturalized.
- Also occurs in Indo-Malaya.
- Now planted in most tropical countries.
Parts used and preparation
Leaves.
Constituents
Leaf oil largely composed of monoterpenes (30% sesquiterpenes, 9 % caryophyllene).
Properties
- Considered diuretic, emmenagogue, abortifacient, febrifuge.


Uses
Nutrition / Culinary
Fruit is eaten raw but may be prepared with flavoring.
In Puerto Rico, used for making of table wines.
In Indonesia, flowers eaten in salads. Young shoots and leaves eaten, raw or cooked.
Folkloric
- Not known in the Philippines for its medicinal properties.
- In the Moluccas, the astringent bark is used for making a mouthwash for thrush (dapulak).
- A root-bark decoction used for dysentery and amenorrhea.
- Malays applies the dried, powdered leaves for cracked tongues.
- Root applied to itches.
- For sore throat, the inner bark is scraped or the whole bark is decocted.
- Root-bark used as abortifacient; also for amenorrhea and dysentery.
- In Hawaii, juice of salted pounded bark used for wounds.
- In Molucca, decoction of bark used for thrush.
Malayans use powdered dried leaves for cracked tongues. Root preparations for itching.
- In Cambodia, decoction of fruit, leaves and seeds used for fever. Juice of leaves used for baths
and lotions. The root is considered diuretic.
- In Brazil, used for diabetes, cough, headaches, constipation.
- In Malaysian Borneo, Malaysian Borneo, decoction of stem and bark for diarrhea.
Others
Wood is used for construction, bowls and boards.

Studies
Antiinflammatory: Flavan-3-ols isolated from some medicinal plants inhibiting COX-1 and
COX-2 catalyzed prostaglandin biosynthesis: S malaccense was one of four plants tested that
were traditionally used for inflammatory conditions. (2)
Antioxidant: Study of 58 underutilized Malaysian fruits of 32 different species, showed fruits
from some genera, including Syzygium, had higher antioxidant capacity compared to other
genera. (3)
Leaf Oil Analysis: Study of hydrodistilled essential oil from the fresh leaves of SM grown in
Nigeria showed the oil to be largely composed of monoterpenes (61.1%) characterized mainly by
a-pinene, b-pinene, p-cymene and a-terpineol. The sesquiterpenes constituted 30.8% of the oil
with b-caryophyllene as the major component.(4)
Essential Oils / Non-Ichthyotoxic: Study yielded three compounds ursolic acid, B-sitosterol,
and sitos-4-en-3-one. None of the compounds gave any significant ichthyotoxicity. (6)
Aldose Reductase Inhibition / Cataract Prevention:Cataractogenesis is a common
complication in diabetes, and aldose reductase in a lens enzyme involved in its development. In a
study, S malaccense was one of the best four plant extract inhibitors with a preventive effect on
cataract formation. (7)
Hypoglycemic / Antidiabetic: Study of SM aqueous and alcoholic bark extracts in STZ-
induced diabetic rats showed reduction of blood sugar and improvement in hyperlipidemia and
liver glycogen depletion. The alcohol extract was more effective than the aqueous extract and
equivalent to that of glibenclamide.

Atis / SUGAR APPLE

Atis is a small tree 3 to 5 meters in
height. Leaves are somewhat
hairy when young, oblong, 8 to 15
centimeters long, with a petiole 1
to 1.5 centimeters long. Flowers
occur singly in the axils of the
leaves, about 2.5 centimeters
long, pendulous, hairy, three-
angled, light green to yellow. Fruit
is large, somewhat heart-shaped,
6 to 9 centimeters long, the
outside marked with knobby
polygonal tubercles. When ripe,
the fruit is light yellowish-green.
Flesh is white, sweet, soft, and
juicy, with a mild and very
agreeable flavor.



Distribution
- Cultivated throughout the Philippines; occasionally spontaneous.
- Introduced from tropical America by the Spaniards.
- Now pantropic.

Constituents
- The leaves yield an alkaloid, chloroplatinate.
- Anonaine, an alkaloid, is found in the bark, leaves and seeds.
- Seed yields an alkaloid, neutral resin, fixed oil.
- Seed contains a yellow, non-drying oil and an irritant which kills lice.
Properties
- The leaves, fruit and seeds are vermicidal and insecticidal.
- The unripe fruit is astringent, used for diarrhea and dysentery and
dyspepsia.
- The bark is astringent and tonic.
- Roots make a drastic purgative.
- Leaves are emmenagogue, febrifuge, tonic
- Insecticide, antiovulatory, abortifacient.
Parts used
Leaves, fruit and seeds.

Uses
Folkloric
Salted bruised leaves used to hasten suppuration.
Bark decoction is used as tonic and to stop diarrhea.
Root has purgative action.
Leaf decoction used for rheumatic baths to alleviate pain.
For fainting and hysteria, crush fresh leaves and place over nose.
For infected insect bites, pound and extract the juice from one unripe fruit and
apply the juice directly to the affected areas, 3 times daily.
For lice infestation of the head, atis has a herbal treatment regimen:
(1) Shampoo hair with gugo bark or any commercial shampoo daily for one
week; with "suyod" combing twice daily.
(2) For lice eggs (nits), apply hot vinegar for half an hour after shampooing;
then "suyod" (fine combing) thoroughly.
(3) Bedtime, pound 1/2 cup of atis seeds and mix with 1/4 cup of oil. Apply
mixture thoroughly to the scalp and hair. Wrap the hair and head overnight.
Shampoo in the morning and follow with fine tooth combing. Do daily for 3-5
days.
(4) Paste of the crushed seeds in water, applied to the scalp. The same used
as abortifacient applied to the os uteri.
In Northern India, young leaves used for diabetes.
In Malaysia, used for skin infections, diarrhea, dysentery and UTIs.
Nutrition
Eaten raw or makes a delicious ice cream.
The fermented fruit used to make cider.
Others
The blackened aborted atis fruit is a preferred by some healers as an
ingredient in the making of the "unton," used for bales.

Studies
Anti-Inflammatory / Cyclic Peptides: Study yielded two new cyclic
peptides, cyclosquamosin H and I, together with six known cyclic peptides,
squamin A, squamin B, cyclosquamosin A, D E and cherimolacyclopeptide B
from the seeds. Compound 7 showed an inhibitory effect on the production of
pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Cytotoxicity / Anticancer: Extracts of A squamosa fruit pericarp was tested
for cytotoxic activity against Dalton's lymphoma cells and HeLa cells. The
chloroform extract was found cytotoxic to the different cell lines tested and
suggests the potential for AS fruit pericarp for the development of treatment
for cancers.
Antidiabetic: (1) Beneficial effects of Annona squamosa extract in
streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats: Study results showed that A. squamosa
extract has an antihyperglycemic effect and alleviated liver and renal damage
associated with STZ-induced diabetes mellitus in rats. (2) Study of aqueous
leaf extracts were investigated on STZ-nicotinamide induced diabetic rats.
The diabetic groups treated with aqueous leaf extract were compared with
standard glibenclamide.
Anti-Cancer / Squadiolins: Mono-tetrahydrofuran Annonaceous
Acetogenins from Annona squamosa as Cytotoxic Agents and Calcium Ion
Chelators: Squadiolins A and B showed potency against human Hep G2 and
3B hepatoma and MCF-y breast cancer cells.


Niyog / COCONUT

Coconut is one of the most useful plants
in the world, providing a multitude of
uses, from arrack to food staple, sugar
to vinegar, fibers and fodder, thatching
and lumber, and virgin coconut oil
among many others. In addition, it yield
3 to 4 tons of copra (nut meat) per
hectare and over two tons of oil.Coconut
is an unarmed, erect, tall palm reaching
a height of 25 meters. Trunk is stout, 30
to 50 centimeters in diameter, thickened
at the base; marked with annular scars.
Leaves are crowded at the apex of the
trunk, 3.5 to 6 meters long, with a stout
petiole, 1 meter or more in length.
Leaflets are bright green, numerous,
linear-lanceolate, flaccid, 60 to 100
centimeters long. Spadix is about 1
meter long, erect, drooping, straw-
colored, simply branched. Male flowers are small and yellowish with small,
ovate, valvate sepals and oblong, valvate petals. Female flowers are much
larger, rounded, with imbricate sepals and shorter convolute petals. Fruit is
variable in size, shape and color, obovoid to subglobose, often obscurely 3-
angled, 15 to 25 centimeters long. Endosperm forms a thick white layer of
fleshy fibrous substance adherent to the membranous testa which is adherent
to the stony-black shell. The shell is covered by a fibrous husk. The embryo is
opposite one pore.

Distribution
- Extensively cultivated in the Philippines, especially in regions where the dry
season is not too prolonged.
- Native of Polynesia.
- Pantropic in cultivation.
- Introduced during prehistoric times.

Constituents
Fixed oil, 57.5 - 71%; volatile oil, wax containing the myricyl ester of cerotic
acid.
Coconut oil is composed mostly of triglycerides of saturated fatty acids -
Lauric (dodecanoic acid, 40 to 55%) and myristic acid (tetradecanoic acid, 15
to 20%), and other fatty acids at concentrations of 5 to 10 %.
High-grade coconut oil is nearly colorless, bland tasting, with a peculiar odor
of coconuts, consisting largely of glyceyl ester of lauric and myristic acids, and
glyceryl ester of other fatty acids as caproic, capryllic, capric, and oleic.
Meat: protein, 6.3%; vitamins A, B, and C; nonyl alcohol; methyl heptyl
ketone; methyl undecyl ketone; capronic, decylic, caprylic, lauric and myristic
acids; lecithin; stigmasterin, phytosterin; choline; globulin; galactoaraban;
galactomannan.
Water, 93%; protein, 0.5%; ash, 1%; saccharose; oxidase; catalase,
diastase.
Phytochemical screening of constituents of endosperm showed the presence
of terpenoids, alkaloids, resins, glycosides and steroids. Macronutrient
analyses yielded carbohydrates, proteins, reducing sugar, fats and oil.
Coconut water vs coconut milk: Coconut water is the aqueous part of the
coconut endosperm; coconut milkgata in the Philippines, santan in Malaysia
and Indonesiais the liquid product obtained by grating the solid endosperm,
with or without the addition of water. Coconut water is mainly water (about
94%) while coconut milk yields about 50% water, fat and protein. (31)

Coconut Water:
- Coconut water contains sugar, fiber, proteins, antioxidants, vitamins and
minerals with an isotonic electrolyte balance.

Properties
- Considered antitumor, antidotal, antiseptic, aperient, aphrodisiac, astringent,
bactericidal, depurative, diuretic, pediculicide, refrigerant, stomachic, styptic,
suppurative, vermifuge.
- Roots considered antiscorbutic, astringent, and diuretic.
- Fresh coconut water considered astringent and possibly vermifuge. Also
considered demulcent, and aperient in large doses.
- Endosperm cocomilk is considered refrigerant, nutrient, aperient, diuretic
and anthelmintic.

Parts used
Roots, bark, "bloom" of the leaf, the cabbage, flowers, and the fruit (husk,
shell, water, endosperm, oil.)

Uses
Edibility / Culinary / Nutrition
- Use oil for cooking; take meat and/or gata (cream) as food.
- The ubod part is a delicacy used in a variety of preparations: lumpia, achara,
salads.
- A good source of iron and calcium.
- The cocomilk, the juice expressed from the grated endosperm was a popular
substitute for cow's milk during World War II.
- Fresh coconut juice is considered astringent; allowed to stand, it loses
astringency.
- The endosperm is eaten in its various stages of development: (1) malauhog -
the early mucoid stage (2)tagop - the stage
between malauhog and malakanin (3)malakanin, a consistency best used for
salads. (Alagan is the mature stage of the endosperm, not suitable for
culinary use.) The coconut water of malauhog is mildly sweet, becoming
increasingly acidic as the coconut matures.
Folkloric
- Myriads of use in the traditional systems worldwide: abscesses, asthma,
baldness, burns and bruises,, cough and colds, kidney stones, scabies,
ulcers, among many others.
- Constipation: Take 1 to 2 tablespoons of gata (cream).
- Dandruff: Massage oil on scalp, leave overnight, and wash hair.
- Diarrhea and/or vomiting: Drink water of young fruit, as tolerated. Water from
the young coconut has been used as a substitute for dextrose infusion in
emergent situations during World War II.
- Dry skin: Apply oil and massage into affected area.
- Young roots astringent for sore throats.
Studies
Analgesic / Antioxidant: Antinociceptive and free radical scavenging activities of
Cocos nucifera L. (Palmae) husk fiber aqueous extract: The study
demonstrated the analgesic and radical scavenging properties of CN aqueous
extract from the husk fiber. Topical treatment of rabbits with the extract did not
induce significant dermic or ocular irritation. (1)
Antioxidant: In vitro evaluation of antioxidant properties of Cocos nucifera
Linn. water: The antioxidant activity as most significant in fresh samples of
coconut water, diminishing with heat. Maturity also drastically decreased the
scavenging ability. The scavenging ability may be partly attributed to the
ascorbic acid, an important constituent of coconut water. (3)
Hypertension: The control of hypertension by use of coconut water and
mauby: two tropical food drinks provided significant decreases, approximately
double the largest values seen with single interventions. (5)
Anti-neoplastic / Husk Fiber: Study of aqueous extracts of the husk showed
antitumoral activity against a leukemia cell line. Study suggests a very
inexpensive source of new antineoplastic and anti-multidrug resistant
drugs. (6)
Burn Wound Healing Property: Study concluded that the oil of Cocos nucifera is
an effective burn wound healing agent. There was significant improvement in
burn wound contraction in the group treated with the combination of CN and
silver sulfadiazine. It suggests C nocifera can be a cheap and effective
adjuvant to other topical agents. (8)
Anti-Ulcerogenic: A study of warm water crude extract of coconut milk and a
coconut water dispersion showed that coconut milk and water had protective
effects on ulcerated gastric mucosa. The coconut milk provided stronger
protection on indomethacin-induced ulceration than coconut water in rats. (9)
Anthelminthic: A study of the liquid extracted from the bark of the green
coconut and butanol extract on mice showed that the Cocos nucifera extracts
may be useful in the control of intestinal nematodes. (10)
Protein Content: Study showed native coconut proteins consisted of four major
polypeptides. The proteins had a relatively high level of glutamic acid, arginine
and aspartic acid.



Apatot / INDIAN MULBERRY



Apatot is an erect, smooth shrub or
small tree, 3 to 10 meters high.
Leaves are broadly elliptic to
oblong, 12 to 25 centimeters long,
with pointed or blunted tips.
Peduncles are leaf-opposed,
solitary, 1 to 3 centimeters long.
Flowers are not bracteolate, and
form dense, ovoid or rounded
heads, and are 1 to 1.5
centimeters. Calyx is truncate.
Corolla is white, 1 centimeter long;
limb is 5-lobed, 1 centimeter in diameter. Fruit is fleshy, white or greenish
white, ovoid, 3 to 10 centimeters long, with the odor of decaying cheese.

Distribution
- Found chiefly along or near the seashore throughout the Philippines.
- Also occurs in India to Polynesia.
Constituents
- Fruit contains phytochemicals: lignans, polysaccharides, flavonoids, iridoids,
nonisides, scopoletin, catechin and epicatechin, damnacanthal, alkaloids.
- Root bark contains a crystal glucoside, morindine (C27H10O15), and a
coloring matter, morindine.
- Fruit yields a volatile oil, morinda oil.
- Studies have yielded scopoletin, octoanoic acid, potassium, vitamin C,
terpenoids, alkaloids, anthroquinones, sitosterol, -carotene, vitamin A,
flavone glycosides and linoleic acid.
- Leaves yield flavanol glycosides, beta-carotene and iridoid glycosides.
- Study of methanol extracts of leaves, stems, and fruits yielded 22
constituents. Eight were new compounds: morinaphthalenone, morindafurone,
morinaphthalene, morindicone, morinthone, morindicinone, morindicininone,
and 5-benzofuran carboxylic acid -6-formyl methyl ester, with 14 known
constituents.
- Ethanolic extract of leaves and fruit juice yielded eighteen and fifteen
compounds respectively. Among them were octanoic acid, cyclopropyl,
hexanoic acid, n-decanoic acid, allantoin, sorbitol, mannitol, glycerin and
gamma tocopherol. (32)
Properties
- Fruit is emmenagogue.
- Root is cathartic.
- Bark, because of morindine, is febrifuge
- Tonic.
- Leaves considered vulnerary.
- Studies have suggested anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal,
anthelmintic, analgesic, hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, and immune-
enhancing effects.

Parts utilized:
Roots, bark, leaves.

Uses
Edible
- Fruit is edible, which smells like decaying cheese and not great tasting, is
eaten raw or cooked, salted or curried.
- In Indo-China, fruit eaten with salt.
- Fruit occasionally used as pig feed.
- In Java, young leaves eaten as vegetable.
- Tonic drink is prepared from decoction of pounded leaves and stem bark.
Folkloric
- In the Philippines, fruit is used as emmenagogue.
- Leaves, when fresh, applied to ulcers, facilitates healing.
- In Malaysia, heated leave applied to the chest and abdomen for coughs,
nausea, colic, enlarged spleen, and fever.
- In Indo-China, leaves used as deobstruent and emmenagogue.
- In Bombay leaves applied externally for wound healing, and internally, as
tonic and febrifuge.
- Decoction of charred leaves with mustard for infantile diarrhea.
- Juice of over-ripe fruit used for diabetes.
- Over-ripe fruit used as poultice and for treating kidney diseases.




Akapulko / RINGWORM BUSH

Akapulko is a coarse, erect, branched shrub, 1.5 to 3 meters high. Leaves are
pinnate and 40 to 60 centimeters long, with orange rachis on stout branches.
Each leaf has 16 to 28 leaflets, 5 to 15 centimeters in length, broad and
rounded at the apex, with a small point at the tip. Leaflets gradually increase
in size from the base towards the tip of the leaf. Inflorescences are terminal
and at the axils of the leaves, in simple or panicled racemes, and 10 to 50
centimeters long. Flowers are yellow, about 4 centimeters inn diameter, at the
axils of thin, yellow, oblong, concave bracts which are 2.5 to 3 centimeters
long. Pod is rather straight, dark brown or nearly black, about 15 centimeters
long and 15 millimeters wide. On both sides of the pods there is a wing that
runs the length of the pod. Pod contains 50 to 60 flattened, triangular seeds.
Distribution
- Abundant throughout the Philippines in settled areas at low and medium altitudes.
- Occasionally planted as ornamental or for its medicinal properties.
- Introduced from tropical America; now pantropic.


Additional botanical info
Propagated rapidly by seeds (dispersed by waters) or stem cuttings. Basal
stem may produce coppices (suckers).
Seeds from mature pods can be collected during the season and
immediately planted or stored for six months.
Constituents
Chrysophanic acid (chrysophanol); oxymethyl anthraquinone, 2.2%; aloe-
emodin; rhein; cassiaxanthone; tannins; saponins; alkaloids.
Study of chemical constituents yielded 12 compounds: chrysoeriol,
kaempferol, quercetin, 5,7,4'-trihydroflavanone, kaempferol-3-O-beta-D-
glucopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranoside, 17-hydrotetratriacontane, n-
dotriacontanol, n-triacontanol, palmitic acid ceryl ester, stearic acid, palmitic
acid.
Phytochemical studies of crude extract of stem bark yielded important
secondary metabolites - tannins, steroids, alkaloids, anthraquinones,
terpenes, carbohydrates and saponins.
Phytochemical study of leaves yielded 12 compounds viz. chrysoeriol,
kaempferol, quercetin, 5,7,4'-trihydroflavanone, kaempferol-3-O-beta-D-
glucopyranoside, kaempferol-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-
glucopyranoside, 17-hydrotetratriacontane, n-dotriacontanol, n-triacontanol,
palmitic acid ceryl ester, stearic acid, palmitic acid. (29)
Properties
Saponin acts as a laxative and expels intestinal parasites.
Its fungicide property derives from chrysophanic acid.
Plant considered alterative, abortifacient, aperient, purgative, sudorific,
hydragogue, diuretic, vermifuge.


Parts utilized
Leaves, seeds, and flowers.
Uses
Folkloric
- The seeds used for intestinal parasitism.
- Tincture from leaves reported to be purgative.
- Decoction of leaves and flowers for cough and as expectorant in bronchitis
and asthma. Also used as astringent.
- Crushed leaves and juice extract used for ringworm, scabies, eczema, tinea
infections, itches, insect bites, herpes.
- Preparation: Pound enough fresh leaves; express (squeeze out) the juice
and apply on the affected skin morning and evening. Improvement should be
noticed after 2 - 3 weeks of treatment.
- Decoction of leaves and flowers used as mouthwash in stomatitis.
- In Africa, the boiled leaves are used for hypertension.
- In South American, used for skin diseases, stomach problems, fever,
asthma, snake bites and venereal disease.
- In Thailand, leaves are boiled and drunk to hasten delivery.
- As laxative, boil 10-15 dried leaves in water, taken in the morning and
bedtime.
- For wound treatment, leaves are boiled and simmered to one-third volume,
then applied to affected areas twice daily.
- In India, plant used as cure for poisonous bites and for venereal eruptions.
- In Nigeria locally used for treatment of ringworm and parasitic skin diseases.
- In the Antilles, Reunion, and Indo-China, plant is used as hydrogogue,
sudorific, and diuretic.
- Decoction of roots used for tympanites.
- Wood used as alterative.
- Sap of leaves used as antiherpetic.
- Leaf tincture or extract used as purgative.
- Juice of leaves mixed with lime-juice for ringworm.
- Leaves taken internally to relieve constipation.
- Strong decoction of leaves and flowers used as wash for eczema.
- Infusion of leaves and flowers used for asthma and bronchitis.
- Strong decoction of leaves used as abortifacient.
- Seeds used as vermifuge.
Ointment preparation
(1) Wash fresh leaves thoroughly and cut in small pieces.
(2) Add one glass of cooking oil or coconut oil to one glass of cut fresh leaves.
(3) Fry until crispy.
(4) Remove from the heat; strain.
(5) Cut 2 white candles (Esperma No. 5) into small pieces.
(6) In a cooking pot, pour the strained oil together with the candle pieces; stir
until the candle has melted.
(7) Pour the mixture into a clean container; cover when cool.
(8) Apply the ointment to affected areas twice daily.
(Source: <www.doh.gov.ph/pitahc>)


Studies
Antifungal: (1) Crude ethanol and aqueous extract of Cassia
alata (GELENGGANG BESAR) leaves and bark were tested for antifungal
activity in vitro against three fungi Aspergillus fumigatus,Microsporum
canis and Candida albicans. The study showed the C. alata to be effective
against C. albicans, confirming its potential as a natural source of antifungal
remedy. (2) Ethanolic extract of leaves showed potent activity against
dermatophytes without effect on C albicans, A fumigatus or non-
dermatophytes. (3) Study yielded an anthraquinone high-yielding Senna alata
leaf extract with antifungal activity against dermatophytes Tricophyton
rubrum, T mentagrophytes and Microsporum gypseum. (3) Study of ethanolic
extract of CA leaves showed high activity against various species of
dermatophytic fungi but low activity against non-dermatophytic fungi. (4) In a
study using methanolic, ethanolic and petroleum ether extracts to screen for
phytochemicals, antibacterial and antifungal activities, the methanolic extract
showed the highest activity.
Analgesic: (1) Ethanol and hexane extract of Senna alata leaves showed
analgesic effect in mice. (2) Study of leaf extract of C. alata in mice showed
analgesic activity. Fifty milligrams of kaempferol 3-O-sophoroside was
equivalent to 100 mg of the extract.

Kalamansi / CHINESE ORANGE

Kalamansi is a smooth and slightly spiny plant,
growing to a height of 3 to 5 meters. Leaflets
are elliptic to oblong-elliptic, 4 to 8 centimeters
long. Petioles are very narrowly or scarcely
winged, about 1 centimeter long. Flowers are
axillary, solitary, rarely in pairs, white, and
short-stalked. Fruit is yellow when ripe, nearly
spherical, 2 to 3.5 centimeters diameter, 6- to 7-
celled, and thin-skinned. The skin or peel is
green to yellowish green or yellow, loosely
adhering to the flesh. The flesh contains a few
light orange seeds.

Distribution
- Widely cultivated in the Philippines.
- The species is native to the Philippines.
Constituents
- Leaves yield volatile oil, 0.9 to 1.06%.
- Rind yields aldehydes; sesquiterpenes; beta-pinene; linalool; linelyl acetate; tannin; glucoside;
cyanogenetic substances.
Properties
Aromatic, antiseptic, antiphlogistic, carminative, deodorant, refrigerant.

Parts used
Fruit, leaves, roots.

Uses
Culinary and nutrition
- It is fairly sour and is a popular seasoning for many local food.
- Served with iced-tea, seafoods and meats.
- Also used for making juice and marmalade.
- Kalamnsi-ade is a rich source of vitamin C
- Condiment: Use rind and fruit.
Folkloric
- Aromatic bath: Mix juice with gogo.
- Cough, colds and sore throat: Drink warm kalamansi-ade.
- Nausea and fainting: Squeeze rind near nostril to inhale.
- Applied externally for itching.
- Higaonon tribe of Mindanao use decoction of leaves to lower hypertension. Juice from partly
roasted fruits used for coughs and colds. (10)
- Fruits crushed with bark of Entada phaseoloides used as hair shampoo, for itching and to
stimulate hair growth.
- Juice of fruit used for Acne vulgaris and Pruritis vulvae.
- In Malaysia, used as an antidote for poison.
- Poultice of pandanus leaves, mixed with salt and juice of citrus microcarpa, for abscesses.
- In Malaya, combined with pepper to help expel phlegm.
- Root used at childbirth.
- Leaf oil used as carminative, with a effect stronger than peppermint oil.
Others
- Bleaching agent: Cut fruit and apply directly on freckles.
- Stain Remover / Shampoo: Juice is used to remove ink stains from clothes and washing
women's hair. Also used for bleaching freckles.
- Fruits crushed with bark of Entada phaseoloides used as hair shampoo, for itching and to
stimulate hair growth.


Studies
Antimicrobial: Antimicrobial properties of tropical plants against 12 pathogenic bacteria
isolated from aquatic organisms: A study on the antibacterial activity of 9 tropical plants against
12 clinical and pathogenic bacterial strains including Vibrio cholera, Escherichia coli, Vibro
parahemolytics, Salmonella and Streptococcus sp. showed activity against one or more species of
bacteria. Citrus microcarpa was one of the most active. (1)
Antimicrobial: Paper described the potential of A. sativum and Citrus microcarpa extracts as
alternative antimicrobial agents for local edible frog culture industry.
Antimicrobial / Aquaculture: Study isolated 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid from
the crude extract of C microcarpa. The study results suggest that both the crude extract and its
bioactive component might have potential as an antimicrobial in aquaculture use. (2)
Antianxiety / Antidepressive: Study provides evidence that the smelling of essential oils of C
hystrix and C microcarpa confer anxiolytic effect. It concludes that essential oils of the Citrus
family may affect behavior. (3)
Hepatoprotective: Kalamansi peel extract exhibited hepatoprotective activity against
Acetaminophen-induced liver disease in male SD rats, comparable to commercially available
silymarin preparations. (5)
Expectorant / Seeds: Seeds yield alkaloid, carbohydrates and protein. An alkaloidal extractive
was incorporated to the formula of the final product which is an expectorant syrup was based on
the ipecac syrup. (7)
D-Limonene / Seeds: Study tested the effectiveness of citrus oil d-limonene extracted from
calamansi(Citrus microcarpa) rind in dissolving expanded polystyrene foam. (9)
Musk Lime Seeds / Oil: Study showed musk lime seeds are a rich source of oil, unusual in
having linoleic, ol3ci and palmitic acids dominating the fatty acid composition. The oil is
relatively stable to thermal oxidation due to its high concentration of unsaturated fatty acids. (8)
Citrus Antioxidants: Study showed C. microcarpa contained a high amount of phloretin-3,5-
di-C-glucopyranoside that was shown to possess a high Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Ratio
(TEAR) value due to its 2,4,6-trihydroxyacetophenone structure. Essential oils obtained from all
citrus fruits showed very high radical-scavenging activity against the DPPH radical, well in
excess that in leaves






Palmira / PALMIRA PALM

Palmira is a robust palm that can live up to 100 years, growing to a height of
20 to 30 meters, growing slowly at the beginning and accelerating as it ages.
Trunk is large and straight, ringed with leaf scars.Canopy of green-bluish
leaves has several dozen fronds spreading 3 meters across. Fruit measures 4
to 7 inches in diameter, has a black husk, and borne in clusters. When cut, the
top part of the fruit reveal three sweet, translucent, pale-white jelly seed
sockets containing water fluid inside.
Distribution
- Native to South and Southeast Asia.
Constituents
- Plant considered a rich source of phytoconstituents: gums, saponins, glycosides,
carbohydrates, albuminoids, fats, vitamins A, B, and C.
- Male inflorescence yields spirostane-type steroid saponins (Borassosides and
dioscin).
- Yielded flabelliferrins, a bitter compound of steroidal saponins. Spirosterol is a
dominant aglycone in odiyal flour and palmyra inflorescence.
- Ungerminated seed embryos was found to be a good source of carbohydrates, fiber,
fat, amino acids, protein.
Properties
Restorative, anthelminthic, and diuretic.
Parts used
Roots, leaves, and flowering stalks.
Uses
Edibility
Ripened fibrous outer layer of the palm fruit can be eaten raw, boiled, or roasted.
The fruit's yellow viscous fluid is made into various sweet dishes.
Folkloric
Decoction used for gonorrhea and respiratory ailments.
Leaf juice used for hiccups, gastric ailments.
Bloom on base of leaves used as styptic for external wounds.
Juice from flowering stalks used for diabetes.
Used with rice as a poultice, fermented, and used for gangrenous and indolent ulcers
and abscesses.
In Indonesia, the sap is taken as laxative.
Others
Arrack: Toddy, the sugary sap is obtained from young inflorescences which can be
fermented to make an arrack beverage or a concentrated crude sugar called jaggery.
Thatching / Basketry: Leaves are used for thatching, for making mats, baskets, fans,
hats and umbrellas.
Paper: In Indonesia, leaves used in the ancient culture of paper making, known as
"lontar."
Rope / Fences: In Indonesia, stems of leaves nailed together to make fences, and the
skin of stems peeled off and used as rope. Stalks also used for making fences and
cordage.
Wood: Black timber is hard and highly valued for construction.

Studies
Antiinflammatory: Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of ethanolic extract of
Borassus flabellifer L. male flowers (inflorescences) in experimental animals: Extract
showed dose-dependent antiinflammatory activity and supports it folkloric use as an
antiinflammatory agent.
Diabetes: New Spirostane-Type Steroid Saponins with Antidiabetogenic Activity from
Borassus flabellifer: Methanolic extract studied yielded 6 new steroid saponins:
borassosides A-F. Results showed inhibition of increase of serum glucose in sucrose-
loaded rats.
Neurotoxic Effect: Study on the neurotoxic effect of palmyrah shoot flour on Wistar
rats showed a neurotoxic effect that appears to be a tissue non-specific damage
reflected at a subclinical level. Neurotoxic effect was eliminated by heating
detoxicification. The nutritional status of the diet influenced the manifestation of the toxic
effect.
Aeroallergen: Study investigated the aerobiologic and allergenic significance of the
pollen of palmyra palm (Borassus flabellifer). Pollen grains were found present in the air
from February to May and June, comprising 7% of total airborne pollen of the study
area. The pollen is a dominant aeroallergen that can cause respiratory problems. The
pollen extract isolated a 90-kD component, one of the major allergens.
Antioxidant: Study showed the leaves and roots to possess antioxidant activity. The
antioxidant potential of leaves to be greater than the roots. The activity was attributed to
flavonoids, saponins, tannins and phenolic compounds in the leaf.
Cytotoxic / Flabelliferin: Palmyrah flour (Odiyal) is known to yield a number of toxins
with mutagenic, clastogenic, immunosuppressive, and mosquito larvicidal effects. A
pressure liquid chromatography separation for dengue mosquito larvicide yielded a
white amorphous solid. Study on a melanoma cell line showed cytotoxic activity on
differentiating cancer lines.
Antibacterial: Study of antibacterial activity of a methanol extract of seed coat against
Gram-positive bacteria (Staph aureus, Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative bacteria
(Klebsiella pneumonia and Serratia marcescens) showed consistent inhibitory activity
on different bacterial species tested.
Anticancer / Apoptosis of Human Colon Cancer Ht-29 Cells: An apolar extract
from male inflorescence was studied on colon cancer HT29 cells. Phytochemical
analysis yielded sterols triterpenes, and saponosids. The extract significantly inhibited
cell proliferation by blocking cell population in G0/G1 phase. Results indicated anti-
proliferative and pro-apoptotic activities.