Lagundi 

(scientific name: Vitex negundo) is a large native shrub that grows in Asia and
Southeast Asia such as the Philippines and India and has been traditionally used as herbal
medicine and is an important medicinal plant in Ayurvedic and Unani systems of medicine.
The extracts from its leaves and roots are mostly considered to provide the most health
benefits. The Philippine Department of Health has conducted research and study for Lagundi
and has suggested that the lagundi plant has a number of verifiable therapeutic value and
health benefits to man.

Lagundi or Vitex negundo has been traditionally used as herbal medicine by Philippine
and Indian folks. It’s main health benefit is to ease respiratory complaints. Lagundi is
generally used for the treatment of coughs, asthma symptoms, and other respiratory
problems.

Lagundi is also known for its analgesic effect that helps alleviate pain and discomfort.

traditional health benefits that are derived from the use of Lagundi are as follows:

 Lagundi is used to prevent and treat worm infestation

 Lagundi is also used treat skin diseases such as eczema, ring worm, etc.
 Used to wash wounds to promote healing,
 Lagundi has an analgesic function to treat  rheumatism, muscle pain and
inflammation of joints
 Lagunid is used for anorexia,
 Used to treat Stomach problems such as colic, spasms and indisgeston,
 Lagundi has claimed health benefits against high cholesterol.
 Lagundi is also used as a carminative herb
 Lagundi is believed to promote good memory and eye sight,
 Lagundi tea is taken to relieve anxiety and to promote relaxation.

For cough, asthma and fever, lagundi leaves—either dried or fresh—

are boiled in two glasses of water for at least 15 minutes. This boiled
mixture is called among experts as “decoction.”
To stop coughing, take ½ glass of decoction three times a day. In
addition, drink at least eight glasses of water a day to further help
loosen phlegm.

If you’re suffering from asthma, take 1/3 glass of decoction three times
a day. However, if your asthma does not improve after one dose of the
decoction or when the attack is severe, consult your physician right
away.

For fever, take ½ glass of decoction every three hours, or as needed.

To relieve headache, heat enough fresh lagundi leaves over a fire until
slightly wilted. Then crush the leaves and apply on forehead and
temples. Bandage the leaves in place. Change the dressing every four
hours when needed.