'Life-Giving' Plants Increasingly Appreciated

Over the past decade, more Cameroonians have understood the health benefits of certain plants. Several medicinal plants have gained prominence as miracle solutions to sometimes complicated health problems. Among the medicinal plants that have won the hearts of many Cameroonians these days is Moringa Oleifera.

Moringa, as it is commonly called, is a familiar miracle plant in many homes. The plant originated in Northern India but today is common in tropical and sub-tropical regions of Asia, Africa and Latin America. Moringa is highly medicinal and also has rich nutritional values. Studies show that Moringa leaves have a high concentration of Vitamins A and C, Vitamin B complex, iron, protein, zinc, selenium and 10 essential amino acids. Moringa, with its 90+ nutrients, is the best source to nourish the body with the essential nutrients, herbalists say.

Another plant which is also popular these days is Aloes Vera. The plant stands out as a cure-all 'home doctor.' The undeniable proof of this is the presence of Aloes Vera plants in the gardens of several homes in almost all towns. Herbal shops mushrooming in all nooks and crannies of our cities showcase several Aloes Vera products that they claim have curative powers for several ailments. Sold in main markets but especially on roadsides between the Mfoundi Market and the Railway Station in Yaounde, vendors of Aloes Vera plants are making brisk business. They hold that the plant cures most ailments when prepared as a drink using several recipes that they offer in exchange for cash.

The famous Ginseng is the one of the latest discoveries in the country. The plant that is common in East Asia, Siberia and North America, is a perennial species known and appreciated for its pharmaceutical properties for almost 5,000 years today. The Korean and Chinese ginseng is a tonic for the whole body. With a high variety of pharmaceutical actions proving its powers not only in curative treatments but also in nutrition, ginseng truly represents an elixir of life due to its stimulant, tonic and energising effects. It slows the ageing process, offering the body a fresh sense of optimism. The general belief is that ginseng prevents the ageing of tissues and treats impotence. Ginseng is also included in the treatment of depressive and debilitative states, memory disorders and diabetes. These miracle plants are sold in all corners and in various forms at affordable prices.