Akapulko (scientific name: Cassia alata) - a
It is a succulent plant used to treat
shrub known to be a diuretic, sudorific and
purgative. The medicinal uses of akapulko are
to treat fungal infection of the skin and for the
treatment of ringworms. English name:
ringworm bush.
Banaba (scientific name: Lagerstroemia
speciosa) - a tree found throughout the
Philippines. The leaves, roots, fruit and flowers
all have medicinal uses. It is used in the
treatment of diabetes and other ailments. It is a
purgative and a diuretic.
Gumamela (scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-
sinensis Linn) - called China rose or Hibiscus
in the West, it is a common ornamental plant in
the Philippines. As a medicinal herb, it is used
as an expectorant for coughs, cold, sore throat,
fever and bronchitis.
and febrifuge.
Niyog-niyogan (scientific name: Quisqualis
indica L.) - is a vine that is an effective in the
elimination of intestinal worms, particularly
the Trichina and Ascaris by ingesting its
matured dried seeds. Chew (5 to 7 dried seeds
for children or 8 to 10 seeds for adults) two
hours after eating. Repeat treatment after a
week if necessary. Roasted leaves are also used
for fever and diarrhea while pounded leaves
are used for skin diseases. English name:
Chinese honey suckle.
Pansit-Pansitan (scientific name: Peperomia
pellucida Linn.) - an herb used to treat arthritis,
gout, skin disorders, abdominal pains and
kidney problems. It is applied to the skin as
poultice or as a decoction when taken
internally.
Sabila (Aloe barbadensis miller liquid) - one
of the most common medicinal plants in the
Philippines that can be found in many Filipino
homes.
burns, cuts, eczema and other disorders. Aloe
vera has antiviral, antifungal, antibiotic,
antioxidant and antiparasitic properties.
Sambong (scientific name: Blumea
balsamifera) - a Philippine medicinal plant
used to treat kidney disorders, colds, fever,
rheumatism, hypertension and other ailments.
As a diuretic, it helps in the excretion of
urinary stones. A decoction of leaves is taken
internally for treatment. It can also be used as
an edema. English name: Blumea Camphora.
Tsaang Gubat (scientific name: Ehretia
microphylla Lam.) - a shrub prepared like tea,
it is now commercially available in tablets,
capsules and tea bags. This medicinal herb is
effective in treating diarrhea, dysentery,
gastroenteritis and other stomach ailments. It
has high fluoride concentration making it a
good mouth wash for the prevention of tooth
decay. English name: Wild Tea.
Ulasimang Bato (scientific name: Peperomia
pellucida) - an annual herb also known as
"pansit-pansitan". It is a medicinal herb that is
effective in treating gout, arthritis and prevents
uric acid build up. A decoction of the plant is
taken internally or the leaves and stem can be
eaten fresh as salad. To make a decoction, boil
a cup of washed chopped leaves in 2 cups of
water, simmer for about 15 minutes, strain, let
cool. Drink a cup 2 times a day after meals.
Yerba Buena (scientific name: Clinopodium
douglasii) - a vine of the mint family,
popularly known as Peppermint. Its analgesic
properties make it an ideal pain reliever to
alleviate the body's aches and pains. A
decoction of clean leaves is taken internally or
externally as a poultice by pounding the leaves
mixed with a little water then applied directly
on the afflicted area.