Serpentina leaves are also known as “The King of Bitter Herbs”, with its Scientific name: Justicia or Androgrphis paniculata) is said to be the latest wonder herb for those suffering with Diabetes. It is a small herbaceous and evergreen plant of the family Acanthaceae or subfamily Acanthoideae and is native to Sri Lanka and India. The plant is about 30-100 cm (12-43 inches) in height.
It is also used in traditional medicine. The study shows that this plant helps to counteract the diseases such as infections, cancer, heart attacks, blood clots, diabetes, herpes, cold, gall bladder ailments, flu and fever. It also helps to prevent the allergies.
“The King of Bitter Herbs”
About Serpentina
The herb is used historically to treat common cold, infections, flu and various diseases. It treats various ailments and diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, dysentery, swollen lymph nodes, pneumonia, leprosy, sore throats, bronchitis, tuberculosis, coughs, chicken pox, headaches, inflammation, ear infection, mumps and burns. This plant is bitter and possesses immunity enhancing properties that stimulates the immune system of the body. The researchers made by Japanese shows that it also prevents the multiplication of the cancer cells. The studies made in China helps to prevent the formation of blood clot. It is an effective treatment of heart attack and atherosclerosis. It has antioxidant properties which help to regulate diabetes by lowering the content of blood sugar. It is used in folk medicine for the treatment of digestive, urinary systems and cardiovascular problems.
Despite its bitter taste, Serpentina is widely sought after by diabetics because of its efficacy to lower blood sugar. This herb can be taken by itself or mixed with food to lessen the bitterness.
Research also supports the uses of Serpentina in Ayurvedic medicine as protection against hyperglycemia (for diabetics) and control of renal disease (kidney).
To reap all these benefits, the common healing practice is to eat five (5) big leaves of fresh Serpentina or six (6) small leaves, thrice (3x) a day. It may also be taken as tea but the infused leaves should be eaten as well three (3x) a day. You may start with a few leaves as it takes a while to get used to it.
Despite all its virtues, there should be some caution in taking Serpentina, especially, among the following:
- It should not be taken by patients taking aspirin or any blood thinner medication since Serpentina is also a blood thinner.
- Pregnant and lactating mothers should avoid this since Serpentinais an abortifacient. While there is no actual study on adverse effects on lactating mothers, it is better not to risk.
- Individuals with Auto-immune diseases like multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. should avoid taking this.
If Serpentina is taken regularly and continuously, it is important to note also that it should be limited to only three (3) months for adults and one (1) month for children, whether in capsule or fresh form. It has side effects like swollen lymph glands, serious allergic reactions and elevation of liver enzymes. A word of caution: Don’t overdo taking this herb. Bear in mind that too much of everything is unsafe.you! Don’t let diabetes control your life.
Health Benefits
What are the benefits that you can get from this plant? From what I know, this is good for diabetic in regulating or lowering blood sugar. Furthermore it is also known for its antibiotic property makign good for infections. This is the reason why we took this herbal plant when we are having cough and colds. But in my search about the said plant, there are lot more benefits that we can get from this bitter plant like:
Analagesic – pain killer
Anti-inflammatory – reduces swelling
Antibacterial – has a remarkable effect in reducing diarrhea and other bacterial infections
Antimalarial – helps prevent parasite infection and multiplication in the blood stream
Antihepatotoxic and Hepatoprotective – eliminates liver toxins and protects liver and gall bladder
Antipyretic – reduces fever
Antithrombotic – blood clot prevention. Helps prevent heart attack.
Antiviral – inhibits viral activity including HIV (further studies are being made)
Antioxidant – fights free radicals
Canceolytic – cancer fighter or better to say cancer killer
Cardiopotective – protects heart muscles
Choleretic – increases the flow of bile
Depurative – cleans the system especially the blood stream
Expectorant – releases mucus in the respiratory system
Hypoglycemic – lowers blood sugar and protect against diabetes
Immune enhancer – increases immune system
Vermicidal – kills intestinal worms
About the Company
Serpentina Inc.
48 Mangga St. Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal
0949-3230842
654-7838
serpentina@gmail.com
My Serpentina 