11. Rat ears (Saliva Serotina (Micrantha)
Rat ears or joy weed is a native plant to Brazil. It grows
on in the tropical and sub-tropical countries across the world. It is found on
banks and rough pasture lands and is a low growing bushy herb used as a cover
or bedding plant. There are about 10 varieties in Jamaica and they are used
here as tea that aids in whooping cough. In the Far East the stems are eaten,
cooked with fish and rice. In Jamaica it used for biliousness and colic. When
boiled with 'garden bitters' and a little salt added, it is good for
constipation. As a tea it is good for fever. The Maroons called it Ò‰Ïmy
medicine', good for almost everything. It is often recommended for constipation
and use the clear juice squeezed out after applying salt to rub the chest. The
leaves may be rubbed to the skin to control eczema. Boiled with wild mint, it
is said to be good for the blood and is one of the most common medicines to
clear the system.
12. Bissy (kola nut)
Bissy is the local name for kola nut. Since 1680 after it
was brought to Jamaica on a slave ship, it became a popular drink, especially
among people in rural parishes. Bissy was formerly an ingredient in cola bottle
drinks. It is widely regarded for its medicinal properties because of its
effect as an antidote for poisons. It relieves menstrual cramps, headache,
gout, rheumatism, jaundice, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. Bissy is further
used in birth control preparations, aids in the control of diabetes, and
overweight. The drink comes from the seed that is grated and brewed. It can be
sweetened with sugar or honey. Some people say they drink it when they are ill
but some say they just drink it as a tea for the great flavour.
Other teas:
1. Cocoa: Good with a little milk and a dash of vanilla.
2. Chocolate: Old-time chocolate tea is made from grated
chocolate, boiled with milk, cinnamon leaves, vanilla, orange rind. Best had
with a bit of hard dough bread and from an enamel mug.
3. Milo: Loved by the younger children.
4. Cucumber leaf: Good for jaundice.
5. Susumber leaf: Cold reliever.
6. Rice and pea bush: Good for congestion and colds.
7. Noni: Lowers high blood pressure.
10. Thyme leaf: Aids in delivery
11. Medina: Good for cold, fever and male virility.
12. Search-mi-heart: As the name suggests, it is good for
the heart.
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