Generally, green leaves are full of vitamins, minerals, trace elements and roughage/fibre, in addition to the vital chlorophyll (which gives them green colour). Naturally, they are highly nourishing and soothing to the body. Here’s looking at a few leaves with medicinal values that could be used as effective home remedies:
n Aloe vera: About four tablespoons of fresh aloe juice in a glass of water, taken regularly, can help relieve acidity, constipation, colitis, arthritis and uterine bleeding.
n Betel leaves: They are a well-known remedy to that bloated feeling after a heavy meal. A good digestive, they are tongue rejuvenators, too. For infants with colic pain, a leaf with castor oil and warmed over a flame, is applied on the navel for some instant relief.
n Basella alba (Basale): Chewing the leaves or consuming it in the form of raita offers relief from mouth ulcers.
n Coriander leaves: It’s a rich source of iron. An infusion of these leaves is a good remedy for loss of appetite. Add a few drops of coriander leaves’ juice in the nostrils. A fresh leaf paste if applied on forehead, gives relief from congestive and migraine headache.
n Curry leaves: Chewing a few leaves first thing in the morning, for a few months, helps prevent diabetes and obesity. It is also a rich source of iron and helps in bringing down blood pressure.
n Dill (Soppsige): The leaves have a cooling effect. they serve as a good nerve tonic, with a mild tranquilising effect.
n Drumstick leaves: Since they are a storehouse of nutrients, an infusion made with the leaves, a dash of pepper, salt and lime juice make an excellent tonic, for growing children and the elderly.