Before switching to English medicine, Every tribe has there herbs they used for treating every ailment.
There are some popular herbs used by all ethnic groups, some of the herbs are common in someplace though. Some of the Popular leaves here in Yorubaland all have a name, lest i forget, depending on the area you are. Meaning you might know some herbs name in Hausa, while some people may be talking about the same herbs, but would seem the person is not right or saying rubbish.
In this short article, I will be revealing the English names of some common herbs in Yoruba land together with their uses.
Parsley (Effirin)
The English name of is Parsley, it’s referred to Parsley in Yoruba. Parsley has so many health benefits for a wide range of symptoms and diseases.
It is from Petroselinum plant, the parsley plant and parsley essential oil have been used as a natural detox remedy, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, diuretic and agent for centuries in folk medicine.
As of now, researched back up health claims about we’ve got for the plant.
Cayenne Pepper (Ata Gun Gun)
Cayenne pepper is referred to Ata gun gun in the Yoruba language. It’s not only in the Yoruba land, but also among the other cultures in Nigeria.
Cayenne pepper has got some many health benefits; It aids digestion, slow intestinal gas, stop stomach pain, including healing upset stomach, it also stops diarrhea and as a natural remedy for cramps.
It’s also used for heart and blood vessels – to improve poor circulation, to reverse excessive blood clotting, lower high cholesterol and prevent heart disease.
Cinnamon (Oloorun)
Cinnamon herb is referred to as Oloorun in Yorubaland. It health benefits are; high source of Antioxidants, promotion of heart health, contains Anti-inflammatory properties,help fight diabetes and also lower the risk of cancer.
Mint Leaf (Ewe Minti)
Mint leaf is referred to as Ewe Minti in Yoruba. It is a favorite herb. The leaves is a can be used in fresh or dried in many dishes and infusions. Mint oil is Always used in gum, candy, toothpaste, and some beauty products. Health benefits of mint include relieving of allergies and pains; it also prevents gastric ulcer. It is good for skin some other benefits.
Spinach (Efo Tete)
Spinach is referred to as Efo Tete. This plant is often used among cultures and had come along way as a Herbal plant. To some culture, they never knew its health benefits.
They only know it is edible and it appeals to their taste bud. If you are one of them, just know that spinach health benefit is hair and bone, asthma and cancer protection, reduction of blood pressure, diabetes management and promotion of healthy skin.
Turmeric (Atale Pupa)
Atale Pupa(Yoruba) is referred to as Turmeric in English. This herb plant lower risk of brain damage increases the antioxidant capacity of the body and heart disease.
This herbal plant can also help delay aging, prevent cancer and fight age-related diseases among others.
Bay Leaf (Bay Bunkum)
The Bay Leaf is referred to as Bay Bunkum in yourba.
Health benefits:
– It eases joint pain from arthritis
– It gives immune support
– Help with sugar level balance
– Aids in digestion, reduce congestion
– Help in improving scalp health.
Marjoram (Efo Ewuro)
Marjoram, is referred to as Efo Ewuro in Yoruba, The herbal plant can be taken orally in a more concentrated medicinal form or used topically and in aromatherapy as an essential oil.
The inhalation of marjoram essential oil is to calm the nervous system and, in turn, positively impact your cardiovascular system by enhancing the blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
It is also used to treat runny noses, gallbladder issues, depression, dizziness, coughs, digestive problems, migraines, nervous headaches, nerve pain and paralysis as well.
Celery (Seleri)
The Yorubas call the celery herb plant seleri. This also a plant that helps in lowering inflammation, reducing the risk of cancer, reducing blood pressure and assist in preventing age-related vision loss
