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JASMINE (JASMINUM OFFICINAUS)
A vine with both deciduous and evergreen varieties, it was originally native to the warm regions of the eastern hemisphere. The plant is now widely cultivated in Europe and North America, mainly for its sweet-smelling white flowers which have medicinal properties. Jasmine tea (widely available in supermarkets and health food stores), which is highly scented, has a calming effect on the nerves and can also stimulate perspiration and help to reduce fever.
JUNIPER ( JUNIPERUS COMMUNIS)
An evergreen shrub or small tree, it grows throughout the northern hemisphere in countries with a cold climate.
juniper berries are so rich in natural sugars that they are used in the fermentation of gin, which partly retains the flavour of juniper oil. The berries, which are also used in cooking to add flavour, or made into infusions, can stimulate the appetite. They contain bitter principles, which stimulate gastric acid secretion and improve digestion, and terpenes (essential oils), which are antiseptic and help to alleviate respiratory diseases and expel phlegm from lungs.
juniper berries are also beneficial for digestive tract infections and cramps.
Caution: juniper is not recommended for people with kidney problems. |
