Believe
it or not, eating veggies and fruit is truly good. In fact, several studies made
by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources point
to the value of some veggies and fruits as medicine. Here's a list of some of
the most useful that can easily grow in most gardens.
Garlic.
Has been proven to be good for cough, asthma, hoarseness, neuralgia and earache.
It is also considered very good for high-blood pressure. In fact, eating half a
clove or garlic a day is said to be good for inducing the body's ability to
dissolve blood clots to help prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Malunggay.
Otherwise
known as the "mustard tree," the leaves of the malunggay is a good
source of vitamin A and is an effective cure for scabies.
Tomato.
Some people think that drinking tomato juice everyday is better than drinking
other juices. The reason? It has lycopene which is known for its cancer-fighting
and preventing qualities. Lycopene is also believed to be good for protecting
human cells from nitrogen oxide given off by tobacco smoke and diesel fumes.
Banana.
Yes, the banana's leaves can be used to treat mild bleeding. Just pound the
leaves until soft and apply the juice on the wounds. Also, the fruit is good for
alleviating stomach disorders. However, don't eat too much of the fruit as
well. The fruit has serotonin which could elevate blood pressure and which might
contribute to some heart conditions.
Tsitsirika
or Chichirica.
This flowering shrub can easily be found in the country as it is a very hardy
plant and is said to be good for diabetes. How to use it? Just put some of its
leaves in a cup and pour boiling water over it to make tea. Cover for a few
minutes to let cool and drink.