Category: Healing Herbs

This website is not intended to provide medical cures, but simply to provide available information on natural, Caribbean herbs; Caribbean Healing Plants; Other Natural foods found in the Caribbean and Lifestyle changes to help create a healthier people.

Caribbean Herbs: Here we provide a list of natural herbs found in this region and their healing properties. You can also join us for our weekly podcasts.

If you have a medical condition please visit your local physician.

Wonder of The World/Leaf of Life Plant – The Wonder Healer

How many of us from the Caribbean remember as children putting a ‘Wonder of The World/Leaf of Life’ leaf in our school book and watching over time as it sprouts roots? It is a plant of wonder to many of us, but we are mostly unaware of its excellent curative powers of the plant.

Wonder Of The World – The Miracle Plant

The ‘Wonder of The World’ (Kalanchoe pinnata) plant, also known as Miracle Leaf, Leaf of Life, Life Plant, Goethe Plant, Mexican Love Plant, Resurrection, Soanzo Leaf is much celebrated for its curing capabilities.  This miracle plant is native to Madagascar. It has also become naturalized in Asia, the Pacific, and all over the Caribbean.

Wonder of The World the healing plant

A recent study has revealed that the amazing Leaf of Life plant is a rich source of T-Cell suppressive flavonoids. What this means is that it has cancer-fighting properties.

Some Of The Other Constituents Of The Leaf Of Life Plant Are…

  1. Bryophillin A (anti-tumor)
  2. C- anticarcinogenic this means that it inhibits or prevents the activity of a carcinogen or the development of cancer
  3. Beta carotene.  Beta carotene is converted by the body into vitamin A (retinol). We need vitamin A for healthy skin and mucous membranes and the immune system. Beta carotene is also important in promoting eye health and vision. 

Internal Uses Of The Leaf of Life Plant Are…

  • Cancer.

  • Depression

  • Headaches.

  • Diabetes

“Diabetes is a major risk for cardiovascular diseases such as stroke, and heart attack which affects the majority of the global population. Goyal et al., (2013) reported that the ethanolic extract of K. pinnata decreased the blood glucose level of rats affected by diabetes. Thus, decreasing the serum glucose level and increasing glucose tolerance. The plant extract also increased the pancreatic secretion of insulin… after 24-hour continuous observation, the glucose levels subsided to normal baseline levels indicating the  antidiabetic potential of the plant” [A]

  • Sinuses and other respiratory illnesses.

  • Blood Cloths 

“A study was carried out by Sharker et al., (2012). Certain bioactive compounds present in the plant can even dissolve blood clots in the blood vessels. These thrombolytic agents are useful in treating myocardial infarction, thrombo-embolic strokes, deep-vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism to clear a blocked artery and avoid permanent damage to the perfused tissues.” [A]

  • Colds and flues.

  • The root of this plant is believed to protect the liver and proved useful for the treatment of hepatitis.

  • It is used as a remedy for piles (Hemorrhoids).

  • The fresh juice can be used to treat jaundice.

  • It is the natural treatment for kidney and gallbladder stones.

    “Fresh juice extracted from the leaves of K. pinnata was administered to patients having stones in
    their body based on medical prophylaxis. Regular intake of the juice effectively dissolved the stones regardless of its position, nature, and previous treatments. There was an increase in the quantity of urine excreted, thus showing the diuretic nature of the juice” [A]

  • Most significant of all, it is helpful in treating Hypertension (high blood pressure)

External Uses Of Wonder of The World

  • Arthritis

Externally it is used for among other things – arthritis. To do this, the leaf is heated and placed on the affected area.

  • Cataracts

In treating cataracts and styes (hordeolum). Begin by boiling some of the leaves in hot water. Let it cool and then squeeze the juice in the affected area. 

  • Cuts/Bruises/External Ulcers

It is also used for cuts and bruises and external ulcers. For sore, tired feet soak in a solution made by setting the leaves in warm water. Apply twice a day, morning and night, or as often as needed.

How To Use The Plant Internally

The best way to use the Wonder of The World/Leaf of Life plant is to make tea which can be taken once or twice a day as needed.  

To make the tea put some water to boil. Once the water is boiling add the leaves of the plant. Let it simmer for a few minutes and then drink the tea without sugar added. Store the unused portion in a refrigerator and use it as needed.

NB: All extracts marked [A] are taken from the publication below

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Cinnamon – The Taste Enhancer & Healing Bark

There Are Two Main Types of Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a common household spice that is used around the world in both cooking, and as a flavoring in drinks. It comes from a Greek word that means sweet wood. There are primarily two types of cinnamon. The first is the darker-colored ‘cassia’ which is grown in southeastern Asia. Then there is the more expensive (and more powerful) ‘Ceylon’ cinnamon, also known as ‘true cinnamon’. This type grows in Sri Lanka and is made from the bark of the Cinnamomum Zeylanicum plant.

The ancient Egyptians used cinnamon. It was so valued that it was once monetary currency. And also considered a suitable gift for kings.

cinnamon the healer

Its most potent component is cinnamaldehyde. Foods like tomatoes, citrus, and chocolate contain large amounts of cinnamaldehyde.  However, the amount found in cinnamon is far greater than that found in any of those other foods. Six (6) grams contains from 42 to 189 mg of cinnamaldehyde.

The Antioxidants Properties of Cinnamon

Cinnamon is full of antioxidants. These antioxidants are found in the form of polyphenols.

The Power of Polyphenols?

Polyphenols are micronutrients that we get through plants. They’re crammed with antioxidants and have potential health benefits, including:

  • Fighting cancer.
  • Hormonal Imbalance
  • Promotes a healthy heart.
  • Lowers blood sugar levels (type 2 diabetes).
  • Obesity.
  •  In Ayurvedic medicine, cinnamon extracts are used for ailments such as arthritis, diarrhea, and menstrual irregularities.
  • Metabolic syndrome.
  • Insulin resistance.
  • Prevents blood clots.
  • Hyperlipidaemia.
  • Its prebiotic properties promote healthy gut bacteria, thereby aiding in the digestion process.
  • It also promotes healthy brain activity, thereby aiding in concentration and memory.
  • Prevents Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Prevents multiple sclerosis.
  • A 2000 study found that cinnamon protects against HIV. Scientists tested 69 extracts in a laboratory. The bark, and the shoot and fruit, are most effective in reducing HIV activity. A  2016 study further revealed that the extract has an anti-HIV effect.

Not only is cinnamon packed with large amounts of polyphenols, but these are also easily absorbed by the body. It also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties. Antioxidants help protect against harmful “free radicals” that damage cells.

Studies on The Effect of Cinnamon on Diabetes

The WHO has indicated that there are 347 million people with diabetes worldwide in 2015. Studies show that the compliance levels of diabetic patients, who use current conventional treatments,  are poor (). Diabetic patients are 1.6 times more likely than non-diabetics to use complementary and alternative medicines(CAM) for a number of reasons.

The increasing use of CAM is attributed to the complex treatment regimes, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar, a fall in blood sugar to levels below normal. Resulting in a variety of symptoms, including clumsiness, trouble talking, confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, or death), patient beliefs, and the side effects of medications have resulted in limited compliance with conventional treatments.

The Nutritional Value of Cinnamon

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a teaspoon of ground cinnamon weighing 2.6 g contains:

  • Energy: 6.42 calories.
  • Carbohydrates: 2.1 g.
  • Calcium: 26.1 milligrams (mg).
  • Iron: 0.21 mg.
  • Magnesium: 1.56 mg.
  • Phosphorus: 1.66 mg.
  • Potassium: 11.2 mg.
  • Vitamin A: 0.39 micrograms.

It also contains traces of vitamins B and K and the antioxidants choline, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin.

Did You know Thyme Quickly & Effectively Heals Breast Cancer & Acne?

Thyme which is known for its aromatic and healing properties is a member of the genus Thymus family. Thymes are relatives of the oregano herb.

As far back as ancient Egypt, it was used as an embalming fluid. In Greece, it was commonly used as an incense in temples and added to their baths. Hippocrates, the famed Greek physician, recommended thyme for respiratory diseases and conditions.

In ancient Rome, it was used as a flavoring for cheese and alcoholic beverages. Today it is used as a seasoning in many stews and other dishes.

During the Black Death Plague of the 1340s, people wore thyme as a means of protection.

Did You know Thyme Quickly & Effectively Heals Cancer & Acne?

Thyme Contains These Key Elements

  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin C
  • Copper
  • Fiber
  • Iron
  • Manganese

The Healing Effect of Thyme

1. Reduce High Blood Pressure

Studies have shown that extract was able to significantly reduce heart rate in rats with high blood pressure, and it was also able to lower their cholesterol.

2. Kills Breast Cancer Cells

Breast cancer affects 122.2 women per 100,000 in the U.S. Research has shown that the essential oil inhibits growth and potentially cause the death of many cancer cell types including breast cancer.

In one of the studies done, after only 24 hours a 20% decrease in cell viability was observed. It has been shown that though thyme kills the cancerous cells it has no effect on the wholesome cells.

Thyme has also been effective in killing lung and prostate cancer cells.

3. Kills Yeast Infections

As a tea, it is used to help in your fight against fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, yeast infections, and ringworm.

4. Most Powerful Acne Cure

Scientists from England tested the effects of thyme on Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), the bacterium that causes acne. They found that it is quite effective in treating acne.

Its antibacterial properties are much stronger than that of benzoyl peroxide, the active ingredient in most acne creams and washes.

Benzoyl peroxide also causes irritation to the skin, this means that thyme is possibly the best solution to acne.

5 Amazing Things You Did Not Know About Stinging Nettle Plant

Many of us consider it nothing but a nuisance. An irritant that we just want to get out of our yard before it grows too big. Yet the very weed we are most anxious to get rid of is a healer. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica – meaning to burn) is one of the wonder herbs on the planet. The prickly bush has curative powers in the leaves; the stem and the roots.

The Nutritional Benefits of The Nettle Plant

  • Vitamins: Vitamins A, C and K, as well as several B vitamins
  • Minerals: Calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium
  • Fats: Linoleic acid, linolenic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and oleic acid
  • Amino acids: All of the essential amino acids
  • Polyphenols: Kaempferol, quercetin, caffeic acid, coumarins and other flavonoids
  • Pigments: Beta-carotene, lutein, luteoxanthin and other carotenoids
Stinging Nettle

The Benefits Of Stinging Nettle

1. Flushes The Kidneys

Susun Weed in her book, “Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year”, Tells the story of a woman who was due to be put on dialysis. Using nettles tea she was able to completely rebuild her kidneys.  Any accumulation of minerals in the kidneys, such as gravel and stones, is gently loosened, dissolved and eliminated by the consistent use of Nettle infusions.”

When used with large amounts of fluids in “irrigation therapy” it helps in healing urinary tract infections (UTI), urinary tract inflammation, and kidney stones (nephrolithiasis). 

2. Nettle Heals The Prostate

3. Helps In The Healing of Diabetics

4. Regulates High Blood Pressure

5. Helps With Arthritis

Stinging Nettle was used as far back as the ancient Egyptians to treat arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation tells us this about the nettle plant:

“The antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic and anti-ulcer properties of stinging nettle have been studied in Germany and Turkey. Stinging nettle is high in potassium, calcium, and magnesium and may be helpful for gout.”

Don’t Use Nettle When It Is In Bloom

When the nettle begins to flower it signifies a change in the plant. A change that benefits butterflies and moths, but is dangerous to humans. As John Wright tells us (in his Hedgerow book):

‘At the first sign of flowers you must stop picking. The plant will now start producing cystoliths – microscopic rods of calium carbonate – which can be absorbed by  the body where they will mechanically interfere with kidney function.’

How To Use Nettle Leaf

To prepare Nettle tea, add a tablespoon of nettle leaves to a cup of hot water. Cover the cup and let it steep for five (5) minutes before straining it. Drink a few cups of nettle tea during the day. You can also add nettle to your salads and meals. Once the leaves are cut small they will not irritate when ingesting. Irritation occurs when the leaves touch the lips. 

 

Lemongrass – Its 7 Most Potent Healing Benefits

Lemongrass is a plant that is popular in both Asia and Africa for hundreds, possibly thousands, of years. It is also known as ‘fever grass’ or ‘citronella’, Generally known for its aromatic properties, it is commonly used as an insect repellent. However, Lemongrass has many curative properties and assists in the fight against some of our most common and dangerous lifestyle diseases.

It is also generally known that Lemongrass is helpful in healing fevers, coughs, and colds. However, it is able to do much more. Below are seven (7) of the healing benefits of Lemongrass.

7  Healing Benefits Of Lemongrass

Lemongrass and its healing power

  • 1. High Blood Pressure

In a 2012 study, 72 male volunteers were given either lemongrass tea or green tea to drink. Those who drank the lemongrass tea experienced a moderate drop in blood pressure. They also had a significantly lower heart rate. Researchers caution though, that men with heart and blood pressure problems should use lemongrass in moderation.

  • 2. PMS 

 Drinking one or two cups of tea made from the grass help with menstrual cramps, bloating, and hot flashes.

  • 3. Insomnia

Suffering from insomnia? Then be sure to drink a cup of tea just before bedtime, it helps restore restful sleep.

  • 4. Constipation

It also keeps the bowels moving properly. As a result, it eliminates constipation.

  • 5. Acne

Drinking the tea on a regular basis helps in clearing acne and other skin issues.

  • 6. Antiseptic and Astringent

     

Its properties make it ideal for not only skin and hair care. But also in the fight against body odors. You should add it to your shampoos; conditioners and deodorants.

  • 7. Detoxifier

 The tea has been used as a detoxifier. It is used to detoxify the digestive tract, kidneys, liver, bladder, and pancreas.  

Most Importantly Lemongrass Kills Cancer Cells

The big breakthrough, however, came when scientists in Israel discovered that it helps in the fight against cancer. Researchers discovered that the plant has cancer-curing properties. Placing the fragrant herb in a petri-dish with both the cancerous and the healthy cells. The scientists discovered, to their amazement, that the healthy cells were not negatively impacted, while the cancerous cells died.

The active ingredient which is responsible for such remarkable results is citral. Just one (1) gram. of the herb has enough citral in it to cause the cancer cells to commit suicide, without damaging the healthy cells.

It Contains These Vitamins & Minerals

  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin C
  • Folate
  • Folic Acid
  • Magnesium
  • Copper
  • Iron
  • Manganese
  • Potassium
  • Phosphorus

Growing Lemongrass

To grow Lemongrass is quite a simple project, simply separate a portion of the stalk and replant. In a short while, you shall begin to see the plant sprouting new leaves. It can also be grown through seeds.

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