Attribute it to enlightenment. Just weeks ago, the Department of Health (DOH) issued a circular that made ampalaya (Momordica charantia) a scientifically validated herbal medicinal plant. Indeed, the lowly ampalaya had the last laugh, as some medical authorities ate humble pie with regards to this proven herbal remedy for diabetes and other ailments.

Actually, the amapalaya wasn't the only herbal plant that received a boost. As of last count, 10 medicinal plants (the ampalaya included) are now being promoted by the government because of the high cost of synthetic medicines. Here's a rundown of the said plants and the method of preparing them as medicine.

LAGUNDI OR FIVE-LEAFED CHASTE TREE
(Vitex negundo) For cough, asthma and fever

To prepare the decoction: Wash the leaves and chop into pieces. Measure 2 glasses of water for every glass of chopped leaves. Boil over low heat for 15 minutes (without cover); set aside. Allow to cool then strain. The decoction is ready for drinking. For cough and asthma, take 1/3 glass thrice a day; for fever, take 1/3 glass for every 4 hours.

BAYABAS OR GUAVA
(Psidium guajava) For mouth and skin infections

Wash the leaves thoroughly and chop into pieces. Measure 4 glasses of water for every 2 glasses of chopped leaves. Boil for 15 minutes over low heat; set aside. Allow to cool then strain. For wounds, wash the wound twice a day with the decoction. For mouthwash, rinse the mouth with a lukewarm decoction of the guava leaves.

BAWANG OR GARLIC
(Allium sativum) For high cholesterol level

Fry the garlic in a small pan (without oil), then broil. Soak the garlic in vinegar for 30 minutes then blanch for 5 minutes more. Eat 2 to 3 cloves after every meal.

TSAANG GUBAT OR WILD TEA
(Carmona retusa) For diarrhea

To prepare the decoction: Wash the leaves thoroughly and chop into pieces. Measure 2 glasses of water for every glass of chopped leaves. Boil over low heat for 15 minutes (without cover); set aside. Allow to cool then strain. The decoction is ready for drinking. For diarrhea, take ½ glass of decoction every 4 hours.

Did you know that&orchard tree growers prefer Tamarind trees that bear sour fruit? Indeed, one would think that Tamarind trees bearing sweet fruits would be preferred but the opposite it seems is the norm. The reason for this is practical and simple. Sweet fruits tend to be eaten first by ants and other insects making the produce virtually worthless for selling to the local market, as well as manufacturers of sinigang mix powder.