Catharanthus roseus is a profusely branched, erect or decumbent perennial plant with stems that can become more or less woody. It grows from 30 – 100cm tall. A white latex is present in all parts of the plant. Recent discovery of the compound vincristine in the plant has led to its commercial cultivation, especially in Spain, China and the USA, since the compound has proved itself useful in the treatment of leukaemia. A popular garden ornamental, it is grown as a perennial in the tropics…

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Asparagus cochinchinensis is a climbing, perennial plant producing stems 1 – 2 metres long from a tuberous rootstock. The plant is often gathered from the wild for use in traditional medicine, and the roots are sometimes used locally for food. This species has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. The roots contain asparagine, mucilage, starch and sugars. The dried root is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antiseptic, antitussive, diuretic, expectorant, nervine, sialagogue, stomachic, nervous stimulant and tonic. It is taken internally in the…

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The properties of Agarwood oud oil are (so far) known to be: Stimulant – quickens physiological functionTonic – strengthens the bodyAnti-inflammatory – reduces inflammationAphrodisiac – increases sexual desireDiuretic – stimulates the production of urineAntimicrobial – kills or resists pathogenic microorganismsCarminative – settles the digestive system and relieves gasFebrifuge – combats feverDigestive – aids digestion of foodExpectorant – loosens mucus in the respiratory tract and aids expulsionMuscle relaxant – eases tension in musclesDemulcent – protects mucus membranes and calms irritationEmmenagogue – stimulates menstrual flowAnalgesic – relieves…

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Frangipani is usually associated with sensual feelings of romance and love. Considered sacred as the “Tree of Life”, Frangipani evokes deep internal cleansing that refreshes the body, mind and soul. THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES: Increases libidoMoisturises the skinUplifts the inner spiritMaintains healthy body with antioxidantsPromotes self-esteemSedates the mindDestresses through sleeping FRANGIPANI IN SKIN CARE Moisturize skin: Glycosides in Frangipani help to get other vital ingredients absorbed into the skin to hydrate the skin by binding onto water molecules. It also supports healthy collagen production. Anti-ageing: Frangipani keeps skin supple…

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Grapefruit is a citrus fruit. People use the fruit, oil from the peel, and extracts from the seed as medicine. Grapefruit seed extract is processed from grapefruit seeds and pulp obtained as a byproduct from grapefruit juice production. Vegetable glycerin is added to the final product to reduce acidity and bitterness. Grapefruit juice is used for asthma, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, cancer, improving levels of red blood cells, a skin disease called psoriasis, and for weight loss and obesity. It is also used to reduce stomach…

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The distillate of the White Michelia has been used for animal testing. It has been shown to have antitussive and expectorant effect, and is able to relieve asthma though the effect is not strong. The medicine is bitter in taste, and main cure includes cough, main chest tightness and bloating, heat stroke, prostatitis and leucorrhea.

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Camellia japonica is an evergreen Shrub growing to 10 m (32ft) by 8 m (26ft) at a slow rate. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to June, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by bees. An edible oil is obtained from the seed of Japanese Camellia. It is called ‘tsubaki oil’. Dried flowers are cooked. The flowers are used as a vegetable or mixed with gelatinous-rice to make…

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