Filipino Traditional Healers' Utilization of Herbal Medicines as Cures

Since time immemorial, traditional herbal medicine practices were observed, but somehow the culture of Filipinos particularly that of Palawan residents remains intact despite rapid grasp of modernity. Herbal medicine is still practiced as it provides therapeutic and highly accessible cures for illnesses experienced. The study found that informants use different herbal medicines such as Sambong (Blumea balsamifera), Lagundi (Vitex negundo) Malungay (Moringa oleifera), Oregano (Origanum vulgare), Herbal Sta. Maria (Calophyllum brasiliense), Atsuete (Bixa orellana) and Guava leaves(Psidium). These herbal medicines are processed by various local procedures commonly through steaming, boiling and roasting. The informants' perception on the usage of herbals mainly resides in published books and family practices. Natural properties of herbs serve as their background belief to utilize traditional herbal medicine practices. This book argues to widely recognize traditional healing practicesand acknowledge herbal medicinal practices have promising potentials not only in curing but also in preventing physical body illnesses.