Uses and Propagation of Tsaang Gubat (Carmona retusa)

Scientific name: Carmona retusa (Vahl) Masam.

Common names: Putputai (Bikol); alangit (Bisaya); forest tea, wild tea.

Indications and preparations: Pills, leaf decoction for gastroenteritis; as gargle to prevent cavities.

Description: a shrub about 5 meters in height. This is sometimes used as an ornamental plant or bonsai. Leaves are darken green and glossy.

How to Plant Tsaang Gubat: Plant seeds or cuttings of 20 centimeters long with 3 or more nodes in a shady area. It takes 6 to 8 weeks for it to grow roots, then may transfer the plant in the prepared plot.

How to Take Care of the Plant:

* Water the plant everyday. Remove the weeds and the grass around it.
* Remove branches or leaves that have been destroyed by pests or by plant disease to prevent them from spreading to the rest of the plant.
* DO NOT use pesticides because the chemicals may remain in the plant.

Used for:

* Stomachache Preparation:
* Chop the leaves and place them in an earthen jar according to the following amounts:

For Dried Leaves:
ADULTS = 2 tbspful
7-12 y/o = 1 tbspful

For Fresh Leaves:
ADULTS = 3 tbspful
7-12 y/o = 1 1/2 tbspful

* Pour in 1 glassful of water. Cover it.
* Bring the mixture to a boil.
* Remove the cover and let it continue to boil for another 15 minutes or until the glassful of water originally poured has been reduced to 1/2 glassful.
* Let it cool, then strain mixture.

How to Use:

* Drink the warm decoction. If the stomach ache is still present an hour after drinking the decoction. If there is no change in condition, consult a doctor.

Source:doh.gov.ph, www.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph