For many years most herbs on the island have survived prejudice and resistance from the medical fraternity as they were said to cause 'liver damage'.

Today, science has been forced to recognise that 88 per cent of world consumers rely on herbals in primary health care owing to the increasing cost of pharmaceuticals. Scientists are now in the rainforest areas acquiring knowledge to confirm the benefits of herbs in their laboratories.

There are four herbs, commonly found here in Jamaica, which have met the approval of modern science as 'wonder botanicals'; they are turmeric, guinea hen weed, lemongrass and rosemary.

Turmeric (curcuma longa)

Jamaicans know this herb as 'tamric' or 'ginger cousin' and it has been used as the base for curry making among the Indians. Clinical studies have substantiated that turmeric is a powerful antioxidant which is able to trap free radicals (toxins) that can cause damage to healthy cells and cell membranes.

This knowledge is important in many diseases such as arthritis where free radicals are responsible for the painful joint inflammation. Cur cumin is the expressed oil from turmeric which is believed to be the primary pharmacological agent in turmeric and has demonstrated its anti-inflammatory effect with no toxicity.

Animal studies have indicated its use in cystic fibrosis, a fatal disease that attacks the lungs. It is also known to protect colon cells from toxins which can damage cellular DNA; it destroys mutated cells so that they cannot spread through the body to cause more harm.

Epidemiological studies have linked the frequent use of turmeric to lower rates of breast cancer cells when injected in mice. It also improves liver function, protects the cardio-vascular system and is a good source of Vitamin B6. There is growing evidence suggesting that turmeric may afford protection against neuro-degenerative diseases. In the Indian culture, it is noticed that the elderly rarely suffer from Alzheimer.

Prostate cancer is a rare occurrence in Indian men and scientists have tested turmeric combined with cruciferous vegetables in retarding the growth of the human prostate cancer tumours. Researchers have recommended this combination today as follows: Cut the cauliflower florets in quarters, let them sit for five to 10 minutes; sprinkle them with turmeric and sauté in a few tablespoons of vegetable or chicken broth for five minutes. Remove from heat and top with sea salt, olive oil and cayenne pepper to taste. This plant needs to be grown commercially.

Guinea hen weed (Petiveria)

Commonly known as gully root and anamu, it has been identified to reduce pain, kills bacteria, fungi, viruses and cancer cells, prevents tumours, lowers blood sugar and expels worms. The standard dosage in capsule form is 1-3g daily.

The root is thought to be more potent than the leaves. The Caribs in Guatemala crush the root and inhale it for sinusitis. In an in vitro study by Italian researchers in 1990, water extracts revealed that it retarded the growth of leukaemia and lymphoma cancer cells. A study published in 2001 indicated that anamu retarded the growth of brain cancer cells and liver cancer.

The standard dose for adults is the whole herb infused in a half cup of boiling water and taken two to three times daily.

Dr Diane Robertson is a pharmacist and recipient of an honorary doctorate in complementary medicine for her work in herbs; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.