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The Fabulous 5: In the search for safe and affordable cures, many of us have forgotten this quintet of medicinal plants right under our noses. Attracted by the curing power, and lack of side effects of medicinal plants, more and more people are shifting to natural remedies. While the spotlight is often on new discoveries from remote places of the globe, there are actually several potent yet common and often overlooked plants that we can grow in our own backyards. 1. Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) Part used: fruit Known as fukwa in China, karela in India, ngai uri in Japan, bitter melon in the U.S., and ampalaya in the Philippines, this fruit is a potent home remedy for diabetes, constipation, high cholesterol, hypertension, and kidney and liver problems. In fact, several studies have shown that this fruit can actually increase the production of beta cells by the pancreas. This improves the body's ability to produce insulin. 2. Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Part used: bulb Garlic has been used as antiseptic for a long time. During World War I, garlic juice diluted in water was used to prevent infection and help seal wounds. Garlic juice is also used as a home remedy for asthma, coughs, hoarseness and other lung disorders. In Super Anti-Oxidants, author Dr. James Balch names garlic as one of the many amazing sources of antioxidants. He says garlic lowers blood pressure, boosts the immune system, balances blood sugar, prevents heart disease, assists in fat metabolism, and also aids in cancer prevention. 3. Carrot (Daucus carota L.) Part used: root The oft-overlooked carrot is a root crop that can help relieve constipation, asthma, poor complexion, poor teeth, insomnia, and high blood pressure. They can even improve the eyesight, end painful urination, increase menstrual flow, and keep the skin healthy. The best way to enjoy the benefits of carrots is by eating them raw; carrot juice is easily made with today's food processors. 4. Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) Part used: root Ginger juice is a common household remedy for colds and flu that is safe for children even if taken in large amounts. It is also effective in treating morning sickness, nausea, vomiting, migraines, cough, fever, viral infections, flatulence, and cramping. But it does not stop there. Japanese studies suggest that taking ginger can make the heart contract stronger, while lowering heart rate and blood pressure by 10 to 15 mmHg. Indian researchers, on the other hand, have discovered that ginger can remove cholesterol from both blood and liver. 5. Chilli pepper or cayenne pepper (Capiscum frutescens L.) Part used: fruit Cayenne pepper, the main ingredient of Tabasco sauce, is one of the hottest peppers. It has been shown to help treat high blood pressure and digestion disorders and is an excellent cleanser of the digestive system. It is also a hemostat, a substance that can stop blood flow from cuts or wounds in seconds, an antiseptic, and a counterirritant. Noted medical herbalist Dr. Richard Schulze, says cayenne is also a cardiac tonic, a pure stimulant that increases the pulse that, to some extent, helps the delivery of blood to all parts of the body, without narcotic side effects. |
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