Uses of Ampalaya
There are many alternative remedies and supplements on the market. Wading through the plethora of medicines and health benefits may seem like an endless battle. It is important to know the facts of any supplement before taking it. This includes facts regarding both the benefits and side effects of an herb or plant. The ampalaya is a plant that has been used historically to treat several ailments in many tropical areas of the world.
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Appearance
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Ampalaya is long tuberous vegetable that looks similar to a cucumber or zucchini squash. The skin has deep wrinkles and folds. It is also known by the names bitter melon and bitter gourd. Every part of this plant is edible; however, it is extremely bitter. The ampalaya plant is considered addictive once its bitter taste has become accustomed to.
Location
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The ampalaya is found in most tropical regions around the world. It is commonly found in Central America, and Asia. Ampalaya has been a staple food in these regions for years, and has often been used medicinally there as well.
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Philippine Medicine
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According to medicalhealthguide.com, the Philippine Department of Health endorses the ampalaya plant for use as an alternative medicine for many conditions.
Ampalaya is recommended to help relieve liver problems, to control blood sugar, HIV, skin diseases, sterility in women, to kill parasites, to reduce fever, and purge illness from the body through defecation.
Both the ampalaya leaves and fruits contain vitamin B, iron, calcium, beta carotene, and phosphorous.
South American Medicine
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The ampalaya plant has been used by the indigenous people in the Amazon traditionally for generations. Amazon tribal doctors use the ampalaya plant in tea form to treat diabetes, cure gas, fight measles, hepatitis, as well as other conditions that are accompanied by a fever.
Tribal doctors of the Amazon also make an ampalaya paste to treat skin infections, sores, and wounds. It can also be used topically to treat worms and parasites inside the skin.
Ampalaya Teas
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Ampalaya tea is generally made from dried ampalaya berries. Many ampalaya teas are combined with other ingredients like lemon grass, noni berry juice, and banaba. These combinations offer even more health benefits than just drinking plain ampalaya tea.
There have been a few side effects reported with the use of ampalaya tea. These include loose stools, and frequent bowl movements.
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References
- Photo Credit (c)Jasper Greek Golangco/ Wikimedia Commons
