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Ginger, Health Benefits of Ginger

19 Nov

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What is Ginger? Ginger has been in use as a popular spice, preservative and herbal medicine for thousands of years. It is one of the most popular household spices used today and is highly sought after in Jamaica. Ginger is a thick, knotted underground stem known as a rhizome and not as a root as it is often mistakenly called. The stem grows upwards from the ginger rhizome to a height of about 12 inches above the surface. It is native to South Asia but it has become heavily cultivated in other parts of the world including the Caribbean. Ginger is known to contain a number of volatile oils and mixture of terpenoids which causes the popular spice to have that characteristic aroma. The non-volatile oils present in ginger are responsible for its pungent nature and warm sensation when placed in the mouth. How to use Ginger? Ginger is widely used in Jamaica as a spice when cooking to add flavor to a wide range of dishes, meat, baked goods and juices. When treating illnesses, the most popular way to prepare ginger is as a herbal tea. Ginger tea is made by cleaning and stripping a sufficient piece of the stem or by using it in its powdered form. The piece of ginger is then allowed to steep in hot water for a few minutes before being sweetened with honey. The ginger may also be mixed with other herbs such as cinnamon to make an even more potent roots tea. Ginger can be used daily for health benefits but it is recommended by the University of Maryland Medical Center that you do not use more than 4 grams daily. Health Benefits of Ginger Ginger has been used in traditional medicine to treat a large number of illnesses such as the cold, migraines, heart diseases and chronic fatigue. Ginger also contains a host of medicinal properties. Some of the properties are antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antiemetic. Those are however only a few of the medicinal properties that the herb possesses hence one can see why ginger is used to treat so many different ailments. The combination of ginger and honey has traditionally been used to treat respiratory problems. Other illnesses and conditions that ginger is used to treat here in Jamaica are diarrhea, sore throat, diabetes, menstrual problems and motion sickness. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make ginger effective in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism.

Categories: Jamaican Herbs

Medicinal Herbs Is the Best Choice to Treat Health Issues

18 Nov

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It is true that there are many treatments today that are offered to the people in curing their health issues. However, some of them don’t contain helpful ingredients that can really treat several health issues. There are times that it makes the condition of the sick person in a very critical condition. These are some of the reasons why most of the people around the world are choosing medicinal herbs. The presence of medicinal herbs is a great help to them primarily for individuals who are suffering from serious health issues. Medicinal herbs are very safe and efficient to use because they don’t contain certain ingredients like chemicals. They can only found in healthy forest and in some places that cannot visit by the people. There are times that you can see them in your garden or in any areas near your house. This only means that medicinal herbs grow in different place that’s why you can easily found it. These helpful herbs are already used by the people in the early and present years. Most doctors and elders are utilizing these medicines because they are very effective in treating different kinds of health issues. Aside from treating health issues, they can also improve the condition of the immune system, heal skin allergies and boost the resistance of the body from infections, as well as renew and raise the vitality of the body. Due to the health benefits that it provides, you must use these medicines in keeping your body healthy and strong. In addition, medicinal herbs are available in several markets. In this case, you can easily look and purchase them.

Categories: Jamaican Herbs

Natural Herbs Will Help You In Your Health Issues

17 Nov

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Natural herbs are the best choice in treating serious health issues. Most elders who live in the early years are utilizing this rather than the medicines from pharmacies. Due to the word “natural”, you will have the assurance that it will keep your body healthy and block the development of illnesses in your body. When you use it regularly, you will gain more benefits as it can keep your body in its good and safe condition. Herbs are the use in various categories of utilization. But, most people use this in treating different illnesses that can easily bring your life into danger. It actually contains substances that can provide lots of health benefits. These substances are with full strength that can easily remove potential health issues. Aside from that, it can also boost the function of your body so if you are suffering from serious signs and symptoms, you must use natural herbs. Nowadays, natural herbs are also used and combined with foods and drinks. With the impressive and creative ideas of chef’s, they make these herbs more useful and helpful. These are usually put in vegetarian foods and drinks that make it more delicious and nutritious. One of the natural herbs these herbs is the green tea. Green tea can give refresh the body and it can also deliver health advantages. There are some beauty products that include natural herbs to ensure women that their face will still look younger and youthful. If you are interest to purchase natural herbs, you will no longer have worry about the price of it because it is offered in a reasonable rate.

Categories: Jamaican Herbs

Cannabis (Indica, Cannabis, Sativa Ruberlis)

17 Nov

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CANNABIS (Indica, Cannabis, Sativa Ruberlis) Some common names for this popular herb are marijuana, weed, reefer, pot and ganja. Medicinal and other uses: a.Cannabis is used as a liniment for sprains, arthritic pains, asthma, bronchitis and migraine headaches. b.A poultice can be made for sores, external ulcers, sprains, gout, boils, arthritis, infections and to kill pain. c.Fresh leaves can be crushed, lightly heated and applied to sores, ulcers, boils, sweetings, sprains and pains. d.Cannabis will stimulate hair growth and get rid of dandruff and other scalp problems. It can be used as a final rinse or tea rubbed into the scalp. e.Can be as a seasoning as the seeds contain a very nutritious oil and can be sprinkled in soups and other dishes. Credit: LMH Dictionary of Jamaican Herbs L. mike Henry/k.Sean Harris

Categories: Jamaican Herbs

Jamaican Ackee, Blighia Sapida

17 Nov

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Ackee is edible, and in Jamaica it is consumed with salt fish as the national dish. However, the fruit must be allowed to ripen on the tree, otherwise it could be poisonous. Medicinal and other uses: a.The leaves are used to make a tea for colds, flu, asthma and mucus congestion. b.The tea can also be mixed with salt and used as a mouthwash for pyorrhea and gum problems. c.Leaves hung in bunches on porches and around the house will keep away flies and other insects. d.The skin of the ackee can be beaten to a pulp and used as a kind of soap to cloth.

Categories: Jamaican Herbs

Breadfruit Leaves (Artocarpus Altilis)

17 Nov

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Popularly known as the Breadfruit, the Artocarpus altilis is a flowering tree species that falls under the Jackfruit and mulberry family. It is native to the South Pacific and has over time spread to the rest of Oceania. The tree basically grows up to 82ft above the ground and it has some pretty large and rather thick leaves. The breadfruit is a well-recognized plant that is popular to quite a number of people, probably due to the amazing taste of the fruit. Over the past few years however, the plant is gaining more popularity, and this time, for a very different reason. It has been studied that the leaves of the breadfruit have got some pretty amazing health benefits. The procedure of preparing the breadfruit leaves to be taken for their medical benefits is somewhat easy and straight forward. It is important to note that for the best results, one should use leaves that are still hanging on the tree. Take about 2 of the leaves and chop them up into fine pieces. You should then proceed to air the chopped leaves in the sun until they are completely dry. The leaves should then be boiled on a stainless steel pot in 2 liters of water until half the water evaporates. It is noteworthy that boiling the leaves in an aluminum pot is not advisable as the two are known to react with each other. After the water is half the initial amount, add more water to bring it back to two litters and allow to boil for a few more minutes. The resulting tea should be allowed to cool. It is generally red in color and really bitter. To make it a little bit more drinkable, you can consider adding honey into it. One of the benefits of the breadfruit leaves is that they help in boosting the health of the heart. It achieves this by lowering blood pressure. It is also effective in the healing of a number of cardiovascular illnesses. The tea has also proven to have some anti-inflammatory which is vital both in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. For its cardiovascular benefits, you will need to take one cup of the tea daily. A cup of the breadfruit leaves’ tea is also essential in lowering cholesterol. This feature makes an important element in promoting better health. A number of kidney diseases can also be controlled through the use of the tea. Due to its anti-inflammatory effect, the Breadfruit leaves have also been studied to have the capacity to prevent cancer or reduce its spreading. It can also treat or prevent inflammation of the liver. Another medical benefit of the breadfruit tea is on the general health of the skin. Drinking one cup daily helps in minimizing minor skin irritations as well as resolving itching and skin rashes. It is also beneficial to the liver and works effectively in prevention of gout due to its diuretic characteristics which makes it an amazing way of expelling uric acid from the body. The breadfruit tree has a wide range of uses. The fruit is edible and may be prepared in a number of ways, and the leaves and the sap which runs from the tree can used for various ailments. Medicinal and other uses: a.A tea of breadfruit leaves, which contain camphoral, is used to lower blood pressure and treat diabetes. b.In Jamaica, the sap is applied to contagious skin aliments to prevent their spreading and promote healing. c.The sap can also be boiled to form a rubbery substance that is used to dress wounds. This Herb can be special order from Island Herb and spices through our contact us form

Categories: Jamaican Herbs

Jamaican Spices And Herbs

17 Nov

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Spices and herbs are being described as a part of plant that is usually used in cooking, pleasure, and medicines in different countries. These kinds of plants come from a group or family of helpful plants that can really help individuals in keeping their body healthy. Herbs are the leafy and green parts of plants and they are the most flavorsome and effective to use for various purposes. However, spices are drawn from any parts of the plants such as cloves, cinnamon, ginger, peppercorns, and cumin. These two are getting more popular in different industries primarily in business. Businessmen are utilizing them as the main ingredient in their products so that they can guarantee their customers that their products are safe and effective to use. For chefs, they always use these ingredients in the foods that usually eat by most vegetarians. Aside from that, they also put herbs in the drinks to give the body a refreshing feeling. With spices and herbs, people can will no longer use unhelpful medicines and unhealthy foods that can give them lots of health issues. This kind of plant will give them the assurance that they can keep their body free from illnesses. Aside from that, they will no longer have to worry in your immune system because it can also improve its condition. If you want to gain these benefits, purchase spices and herbs in the market and make sure that you use it in a proper way to avoid issues.

Categories: Jamaican Herbs

Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss)

17 Nov

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Irish Moss What is Irish Moss? The name Irish Moss can be a bit misleading to those who are unfamiliar with this popular herb. Irish Moss is in fact a seaweed whose formal name is Chondrus Crispus and which is a species of red algae. Irish Moss is also known in other parts of the world as Carrageen Moss and is a part of the Gigartinaceae family. The seaweed is primarily found growing on rocks along the Atlantic coast of Europe; it was originally found near Ireland hence the name. The Irish people consumed the seaweed during Irelands period of famine in the 19th century and ever since its popularity has increased exponentially. Irish Moss grows on rocks on Jamaica’s coastline and its popularity on the island grew when the Irish brought their traditional use of the seaweed to the island. How to use Irish Moss? In Jamaica, the seaweed is primarily used as the main ingredient in the making of the Irish Moss drink. The drink is made by placing a batch of clean Irish Moss in a container of water and allowing it to soak overnight. Other ingredients are then added to the mixture before it is boiled for around 45 minutes after which the mixture is strained and the boiled seaweed is discarded. The final batch of ingredients is then added before being boiled for another 10 minutes. The mixture is then allowed to cool and sometimes sweetened before it is consumed.The Irish Moss can also be consumed raw to ease digestive ailments. The seaweed is also used as a topical treatment to soothe skin conditions such as chapped skin and eczema. Health Benefits of Irish Moss Irish Moss is believed to contain at least 15 essential elements that are key components of the human body. Some of the elements found in the seaweed in impressive amounts are calcium, potassium, iodine and Vitamins such as A, D and E, amongst others. Irish Moss also eases heartburn, nausea, indigestion and constipation and possesses antiviral properties that can help in the fight against the flu and even mumps disease. The Irish Moss drink is also popular among Jamaican men as many believe it gives them vigor, boots energy and increases their ability to perform sexually.

Categories: Jamaican Herbs

Spanish Needle (bidens pilosa)

17 Nov

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What is Spanish Needle? Spanish Needle, scientifically known as BidensPilosa, is a medical herb that forms part of the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to South America but has become common in many tropical and subtropical areas of the world. The annual plant grows to about 2 metres in height and grows aggressively, often times becoming weedy. The Spanish Needle’s leaves are oppositely arranged and the plant may flower at any time of the year. The plant grows freely in Jamaica and is also known by names such as Black Jack, Needle Grass, Broomstick, Beggars Tick and Demon Spike Grass. How to use Spanish Needle? Spanish Needle may be used in a number of ways in order to reap the plant’s health benefits. The leaves may be eaten raw like green vegetables or used as a potherb. Spanish Needle may also be boiled and prepared with dishes such as callaloo and cabbage to create a tasty and healthy meal that is loaded with a number of health benefits. The sap obtained from the crushed leaves of the plant can also be used on fresh cutsto aid in speeding up the blood clotting. Spanish Needle is also used in Jamaica and in many other parts of the word to make herbal tea. The herbal tea prepared from the plant is commonly used as a general beverage or as a treatment for worms and flatulence. Health Benefits of Spanish Needle The root, leaves and seed of the Spanish Needle have been known to possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiseptic, antimicrobial and antidysenteric properties. Spanish Needle also serves as a diuretic and contains antimalarial properties, making extracts from the plant a treatment for malaria in certain cultures. Due to the plant’s antiseptic properties, plant extract may also be used as a natural mouthwash to combat odor causing germs along with sore gums and mouth. The herb is also beneficial in treating joint discomfort, swellings, colic, stomach ailments along with the cold and flu.

Categories: Jamaican Herbs

Prickly Pear OpuntiaFicus-indica(Tuna)

17 Nov

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What is Prickly pear? Prickly Pear is a cactus that is widely believed to be native to Mexico. The plant is a species of cactus and scientifically known as Opuntia Ficus-indica. Prickly bear has long been a domesticated crop plant and is quite frequently found at most plant shops. The plant is of the Cactaceae family and can be found growing naturally all over the island. Prickly Pear is also known in Jamaica as Tuna or Tuna Plant and they are able to thrive almost anywhere and are very hard to die.The plant also produces a large, sweet fruit called tuna that is highly cultivated in other parts of the world. How to use Prickly Pear? One of the ways in which the plant is used locally is by slicing the leaves into smaller pieces then completely opening them apart. The sliced leaves are then allowed to soak for an extended period of time, sometimes overnight, with plain water or coconut water and then drink as you would regular water. Some persons also use the juice they obtain from the sliced leaves to serve as an ingredient in various alcoholic and non-alcoholic juices, dishes and baked goods. Tuna tea is also made using the juice extracted from the Prickly Pear plant. Health benefits of Prickly Pear

Prickly Pear is believed to offer a number of health benefits. The juice from the leaves is used to make drinks that are said to clean out the intestines. Tuna tea is also used to combat chest aches, fevers and help improve digestion. The plant also possesses binding properties, is used as an astringent and helps in reducing bleeding. One of the plants interesting properties is that it works well for weight loss and weight management due to its ability to bind fat. This means that the Prickly Pear molecules bind themself to fat molecules that a person has consumed and prevents the body from absorbing the fat. Its fat binding properties also help in reducing cholesterol levels in the blood. The plant is also used to bring relief from backaches, constipation and excessive menstruation.

Categories: Jamaican Herbs

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