Tag: Traditional use

Garlic has been valued for its medicinal properties for thousands of years, with the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates prescribing it to treat various ailments. Modern science confirms that many of garlic's health benefits are derived from sulfur compounds like allicin, which is released when the clove is crushed or chewed.

For over 20,000 years, the San people have inhabited the challenging environments of Southern Africa, relying on extensive plant knowledge for survival. A key part of this knowledge answers the question: **What did the San people use hoodia for?** They used it to suppress hunger and thirst during strenuous hunting expeditions across the harsh Kalahari Desert.

For thousands of years, the coca leaf has held profound cultural and historical significance for the indigenous peoples of the Andes [1]. It is deeply interwoven into their traditions, rituals, and daily life, representing much more than a simple plant [1, 2].

Globally, ginger is celebrated for its warming spice and therapeutic uses. Jamaican ginger is often regarded as having a particularly potent flavor profile and potentially higher levels of beneficial compounds, making its tea a sought-after natural remedy.

In traditional Hawaiian culture, the fibrous, wedge-shaped segments of the hala fruit, known as keys, were collected and dried for a highly specific purpose: serving as paintbrushes for decorating kapa, or bark cloth. This practice highlights one of many resourceful uses of dried Pandanus Hala fruits across the Pacific Islands.

According to traditional practices and some experts, consuming bitter kola in moderation is key to experiencing its potential benefits while minimizing risks. Bitter kola, scientifically known as *Garcinia kola*, is a plant indigenous to West and Central Africa, long valued for its uses in traditional medicine and cultural ceremonies. However, like many potent natural substances, understanding appropriate intake is vital to avoid potential adverse effects, which can range from mild discomfort to more significant health concerns.

Traditional recommendations often suggest a limited daily intake of cerasee tea (from *Momordica charantia*), frequently citing one to two cups as a common guideline. However, determining the appropriate amount requires careful consideration of individual health, the tea's potency, and traditional consumption practices.