I have chosen fresh herbs to perform my task for the week. I have more of fresh herbs than the dry ones now.
Respiratory: Write three different herbs for the support of respiratory health other than discussed in this lecture. Include their benefits and reasons why they help in respiratory health. (2 Marks) |
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 Basil leaf(scent leaf |  GANGRONEMA latifolium |  piper guineense |
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Uziza leaves, known as piper guineense or West African pepper, are aromatic green leaves primarily found in West Africa, especially in Nigeria and Cameroon. They are a key ingredient in traditional West African dishes and are valued for their unique flavor and possible health benefits.
The plant usually grows as a vine or shrub, with the leaves being the main edible part used in cooking and herbal treatments.
Uziza leaves have a peppery taste and are also referred to as Ashanti pepper, Benin pepper, Guinea pepper, Iyere, Sorowisa, and West African pepper.
They can help ease stomach issues, lessen bloating, and promote healthy digestion thanks to their fiber content. These leaves are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and phytonutrients such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which fight free radicals and oxidative stress, possibly lowering the risk of chronic illnesses.
Many people use them to help with headaches and joint pain. The vitamins and antioxidants found in uziza leaves, including vitamin C and vitamin A, can strengthen the immune system, helping it better fight off infections.
They also provide calcium, vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Eating them regularly may support overall bone health.
Scent leaves, also called basil leaves or ‘efirin’ in Nigeria, are not just flavorful additions to food; they also offer many health benefits. They are commonly used in traditional medicine in various cultures, especially in Nigeria.
• Boosting Immunity
These leaves are packed with antioxidants like vitamins A and C, which are essential for improving immune health. These antioxidants fight free radicals, strengthening the body’s defense against infections, inflammation, and chronic diseases. Eating them regularly can enhance the immune system, lower the chances of getting sick, and support a longer life.
• Aid for Digestion
The essential oils in these leaves have carminative effects, which support digestion and relieve stomach discomfort. Whether made into a calming tea or added to dishes, these leaves can help reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion. They also have antimicrobial properties that may help eliminate harmful bacteria in the gut, promoting better digestive health.
• Respiratory Health
The essential oils in scent leaves have expectorant qualities, which can help clear up respiratory congestion and support easier breathing. Breathing in steam with scent leaf oil can ease symptoms of colds, coughs, and sinus issues. Additionally, the antimicrobial effects of scent leaves may assist in fighting respiratory infections, offering symptom relief and aiding recovery.
• Blood Sugar Regulation
For those with diabetes or at risk of it, adding scent leaves to their meals might be helpful. Studies indicate that compounds in scent leaves, like polyphenols and flavonoids, can help manage blood sugar levels.
GANGRONEMA latifolium, commonly known as utazi, is a climbing shrub with wide, heart-shaped leaves. It has a unique taste that is sharp, bitter, and slightly sweet, especially when fresh.
Bitter herbs like utazi are often used as tonics for digestion. They help increase bile flow and appetite, support pancreatic function, regulate blood sugar, and aid liver detoxification.
Utazi can help lower blood sugar and high blood pressure in people with diabetes and hypertension. It may also cleanse the womb and relieve abdominal pain after childbirth, prevent liver damage from alcohol and viral hepatitis, and assist in treating malaria. Additionally, it can help relieve coughs, wheezing, and asthma attacks.
Infused utazi leaves serve as a home remedy for dysentery and intestinal worms. Chewing the leaves raw or steeping them in hot water can provide quick relief for catarrh, chest congestion, runny nose, and cough.
Iron Deficiency: Write about three herbs which help in the iron deficiency. Make a herbal remedy which can boost the iron level in the body. Please explain how it works in the body? (3 Marks) |
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 pawpaw leaf |  ginger |  cassava leaf |
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Cassava leaves are rich in fiber, which helps grow good bacteria in the gut and strengthens the immune system. Fiber also helps relieve constipation.
They are a source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help prevent heart disease, strokes, and cancer. They also provide B Vitamins that support mood, energy, and metabolism. Additionally, cassava leaves contain Beta Carotene, which protects against cancer and helps repair DNA. They are rich in potassium for heart health, phosphorus and calcium for strong bones, iron and copper to combat anemia, zinc for a robust immune system, and magnesium and manganese for bone strength and enzyme function. They are high in protein and low in calories.
Papaya leaf is commonly used in Mexican traditional medicine as a natural way to help manage diabetes and enhance blood sugar levels. Teas and extracts made from papaya leaves are popular as a natural remedy for digestive issues like gas, bloating, and heartburn.
Papaya leaf is packed with nutrients and plant compounds that may help reduce inflammation, including papain, flavonoids, and vitamin E. Applying papaya leaf masks and juices can promote better hair growth and scalp health. People often consume papaya leaf or use it on their skin to keep it soft, clear, and youthful. It has also been part of traditional medicine for preventing and treating certain cancers.
Ginger contains a lot of natural polyphenols and is seen as a functional food. It has been used to help with tiredness and weakness. Additionally, consuming ginger can increase iron levels in our body.
Ginger can enhance how well the body absorbs iron, which can make taking iron supplements work better. Ginger may help balance iron levels and counteract the negative effects of too much iron. The polyphenols in ginger can support gut health and lessen the side effects of iron pills. Ginger can help lower oxidative stress linked to iron supplements. Ginger can boost ferritin levels in the body. Ginger can encourage the creation of red blood cells.
Preparation of herbal remedy which can boost the iron level in the body
I chose pawpaw leaf and ginger.
 | wash pawpaw leaf and slice with ginger. Add into a blender to blend |
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| pour into a bowl, and add water. Allow to settle for few minutes |  |
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 | sieve out the water and pour into a cup |
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Blood Pressure: Write three herbs for the control of the high blood pressure and three to control the low blood pressure. Explain how the patients can use them in daily life to maintain and regulate their blood pressure. Make your preferred remedy for the control of blood pressure. (3 Marks) |
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Three herbs for the control of the high blood pressure
Guava leaf tea might help control blood sugar levels and ease symptoms for those with type 2 diabetes. In various regions, guava leaf tea is used as a natural treatment for diarrhea. Drinking this tea may also assist in combating the flu. Guava leaf extract might aid in reducing high blood pressure. Some animal studies indicate that guava leaf extract could be helpful for individuals with osteoarthritis. There is potential for guava leaf extract to contribute to cancer treatment in the future.
Moringa oleifera is a plant that may provide health advantages, such as lowering the risk of certain conditions like high blood pressure. This tree, which is quite large, is originally from North India and is known by various names, including drumstick tree, horseradish tree, and ben oil tree. Almost every part of the tree is consumed or used in traditional herbal remedies. The leaves of Moringa oleifera contain several antioxidant compounds.
Moringa leaf extract can also serve as a food preservative, extending the shelf life of meat by minimizing oxidation. It has been studied for its potential to lower high blood pressure and reduce inflammation.
Research indicates that Moringa oleifera may result in slight decreases in blood sugar and cholesterol. It may also possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and offer protection against arsenic toxicity.
Moringa leaves are very nutritious and can be especially helpful for individuals who lack essential nutrients.
Lemons are bright yellow citrus fruits known for their sour taste and fresh aroma, thanks to their high citric acid content. Their unique flavor makes them a favorite in drinks, desserts, and various dishes. Almost every part of a lemon can be utilized in cooking.
Lemons are packed with vitamins, fiber, and plant compounds that contribute to a healthy diet. While most people don’t eat fresh lemons due to their sourness, they can be enjoyed with different foods or in preserved forms.
These fruits offer several health benefits, including: Vitamin C, weight management, prevention of anemia, kidney stone prevention, improved skin appearance, and a lower risk of heart disease.
Consuming lemons may also reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease. The flavonoids found in citrus fruits can help lower the risk of ischemic stroke, particularly in those assigned female at birth.
The vitamin C in lemons aids in collagen production, which is essential for skin support. Additionally, the vitamins and minerals in lemons can help improve issues like acne, oily skin, blackheads, and dandruff.
Vitamin C acts as a strong antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by oxidative stress, which can benefit skin health. You can enjoy these advantages by eating lemons or applying lemon juice to your skin.
Lemons also enhance iron absorption from plant-based foods, helping to maintain healthy iron levels and prevent anemia, which is characterized by a lower-than-normal number of red blood cells often due to iron deficiency.
Three herbs for the control of the low blood pressure
Garlic is a popular ingredient in cooking and offers many health advantages. It can help manage cholesterol, improve heart health, strengthen the immune system, and protect against colds, among other benefits. Recent studies suggest that garlic may effectively lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Some of its key benefits are:
• Strengthens the immune system
• Reduces cholesterol
• Aids in detoxification
• Enhances bone health
• Prevents and treats colds
• Eliminates parasites
• Supports heart health, etc.
Tulsi leaves, also called basil or scent leaf, are a great choice for managing low blood pressure at home. They are rich in minerals like potassium and magnesium, which can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Health benefits has been mentioned above.
Onions are very nutritious vegetables that offer many benefits, such as better heart health, improved blood sugar control, and stronger bones. They are tasty, adaptable, and affordable, packed with various healthy vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds.
Being nutrient-dense, onions are low in calories but rich in vitamins, fiber, and minerals.
They contain a lot of vitamin C, which can support your immune system, help produce collagen, and improve iron absorption. This vitamin also acts as a strong antioxidant, protecting your cells from harmful molecules known as free radicals.
Onions are also high in B vitamins like folate and vitamin B6, which are important for metabolism, making red blood cells, and supporting nerve function. They may help lower oxidative stress, increase antioxidant levels, and reduce bone loss, potentially preventing osteoporosis and enhancing bone density. Additionally, onions provide fiber and prebiotics, which are essential for good gut health.
As a fresh and versatile ingredient, onions are a common part of cuisines worldwide. Consuming onions may help manage blood sugar levels, which is important for those with diabetes or prediabetes.
Finally, onions are a good source of potassium.
My remedy for blood pressure
Guava leaf and scent leaf
 | wash the leaves with salt and slice with a knife |
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| Boil hot water and add to the leaves and cover for 30 minutes |  |
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 | sieve into a cup. final result |
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A patient can use these herbs as tea, to cook, half-done boil, or chew them raw. It works well either way and best taken 30 minutes before meal.
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