MenuSPICES,FRUITS,ROOTS,PLANTS IN JAMAICA
The FLORA of JAMAICA
It is quite rich and diverse, with 3218 distinc species and varieties of seed plants. And at least 334 species growing in Jamaica have been identified as medicinal plants.
With knowledge to know and to choose the good from the bad one , plants can heal or poison , depending on the species, its chemical components, preparation, and dosage used.
Humanity has benefited greatly from them, here we look at some of the best known and used both in the kitchen, in herbal medicine, also as decoration in many cases; always with the aim of reaping the benefits.
SCOTCH BONNET, also known as Bonney Peppers, or Caribbean Peppers
These peppers are used to flavour many different dishes and cuisines worldwide and are often used in HOT SAUCES and condiments. The Scotch bonnet has a sweeter flavour and stouter shape, distinct , gives to JERK ( pork/chicken/fish) and other Caribbean dishes an UNIQUE TASTE .
ALLSPICE, also known as Jamaica Pepper, Myrtle Pepper, Pimenta, or Pimento
Is the dried unripe berry of Pimenta dioica, a midcanopy tree native to the Greater Antilles, southern Mexico, and Central America, now cultivated in many warm parts of the world. The name “allspice” was coined as early as 1621 by the English, who valued it as a spice that combined the flavour of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
Flavour, aroma, and taste of CINNAMON
GINGER is among the healthiest (and most delicious) spices on the planet
Ginger belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, can be used fresh, dried, powdered, or as an oil or juice, and is sometimes added to processed foods and cosmetics. It is a very common ingredient in recipes.
It is loaded with nutrients and bioactive compounds that have powerful benefits for your body and brain.
The unique fragrance and flavor of ginger come from its natural oils, the most important of which is gingerol.
Gingerol is the main bioactive compound in ginger, responsible for much of its medicinal properties. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
- It can reduce your risk of diabetes
- It’s a natural way to relieve period pain
- It’s an anti-inflammatory
- It can settle an upset stomach
- Helps also curb morning sickness
- It helps help prevent heart disease
- It may lower your risk of cancer
MORINGA, the plant of LIFE
MORINGA oleifera (horse radish tree) POWDER
MORINGA contain 15-20% protein and 50% nitrogen-free extract (dry weight) and are rich in micronutrients and vitamins including carotene and ascorbic acid.
Used for shakes, fruit juices, porridge, can be sprinkled on foods , vegetable, with a taste resembling watercress, are sometimes eaten as a salad or in soups.
MORINGA promotes the production of glutathione—the “detoxantioxidant” that counters free radicals causing stress to your liver.
The Zinc in Moringa Stimulates Hair Growth. It is known that iron and vitamin C play an important role in boosting the immune system.
It has a growing use as a cosmetic ; also the commercialisation of M. oleifera has also been proposed on a large scale for biofuel production and as a flocculant
Because of the improved circulation and the healing antioxidants that are buzzing through your body when consumed moringa is known to improve the sexual function of both men and women. For men, however, moringa can help combat sexual dysfunction by suppressing hormones and neurochemicals that lead to dysfunction.
Excellent source of vitamins A, B, C & E and minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron, zinc , MORINGA LEAVES should be incorporated in daily diet to improve the immune sy.
Moringa oleifera is a plant that has been praised for its health benefits for thousands of years
Traditional Uses of MEDINA as a Medicinal Herb
The leaves of the Medina plant are used to make herbal tea which is believed to greatly improve the stamina of men who consume it.
The tea is made by gathering sufficient Medina leaves and boiling them for a few minutes before straining it and then sweetening the tea to taste.
Although Medina Herb (Alysicarpus vaginalis) , is well known for its traditional use as a sexual enhancer, Medina is one of the most popular of all Afro Caribbean herbs, especially so in Jamaica where it is commonly used to combat a variety of ailments but it is probably best known of all as an aphrodisiac and as a booster for male virility.
Strong back has been shown to boost the body’s energy, stamina, and also help to reduce impotence.
It is also used in Jamaican culture in a proper dose as remedy for the common cold and fevers, back and joint pain and in order to combat fatigue.
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