herbs

The Hibiscus sabdariffa species is distinguished by its red stem and pink to purplish red blossom.

A delicious ice tea is made from the red Jamaica .

Bitter orange is used in a wide variety of traditions. In Mexico and South America the leaf is used as a tonic, laxative, sedative for insomnia and to calm frazzled nerves. Bitter orange has a complex chemical makeup, though it is perhaps known best for the volatile oil in the peel.

The petals are usually used in combination with other herbs to make an expectorant tea used in treating coughs and chest congestion.

Alicia’s recipe

Plantain leaves are used to treat urinary infections, hepatitis and other inflammatory diseases.

External application of the leaves soothe inflammed tissues and stop bleeding . Internally the leaves are antitoxins.

This vine has beautiful flowers and delicious fruit. The fruit has been called grandilla as it resembles the granadas pomegranate. The juice is delicious and is said to relieve stomach pain. A tea of the plant is given at bedtime to remedy sleeplessness.

The distinctive, pungent flavor reminds me of limes. Used throughout Mexico, this herb perfumes its way through the marketplace. The fresh leaves are often added to hot spicy dishes.

Formerly called fresh coriander or Chinese parsley, it's now known as cilantro practically everywhere.

Medicinal Uses; Strengthens the urinary tract, good for upset stomach, indigestion and gas