🌿 PHILIPPINES' WILD TEA OR TSAANG GUBAT
Introduction
The Philippines is home to a wide variety of medicinal plants, each carrying centuries of healing wisdom. One such gem is Tsaang Gubat, also known as Philippine Tea Tree, Scorpion Bush, or Wild Tea (Carmona retusa). This remarkable shrub has been a staple in traditional and modern herbal medicine for its versatility and proven effectiveness.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the wonders of Tsaang Gubat, its history, uses, preparation, and its recognition as one of the top 10 medicinal plants endorsed by the Philippine Department of Health (DOH).
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What is Tsaang Gubat?
Tsaang Gubat (Carmona retusa) belongs to the family Boraginaceae and is one of the two species referred to as "Tsa" in the Philippines. The other is Thea sinensis, commonly known as tea tree.
This shrub, which grows 1 to 5 meters tall, thrives abundantly in the Philippines and is highly valued for its medicinal properties. In English, it is called Philippine Tea Tree, Scorpion Bush, or simply Wild Tea.
Tsaang Gubat has been registered as a herbal medicine by the Philippine Bureau of Food and Drug (BFAD) and is endorsed by the Department of Health (DOH) for its antispasmodic properties.
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Traditional and Modern Uses
Tsaang Gubat is celebrated in both folkloric and modern medicine. Traditionally, its leaves were used:
*As a disinfectant wash during childbirth.
*To treat diarrhea and dysentery.
*As a daily tea for general good health.
*As a mouth gargle to prevent tooth decay due to its high fluoride content.
Today, research has validated its effectiveness as an herbal remedy. It is now commercially available in capsules, tablets, and tea bags for convenient use.
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Health Benefits of Tsaang Gubat
Tsaang Gubat offers a range of benefits backed by both traditional knowledge and scientific research:
1. Stomach Pains and Digestive Health
Relieves abdominal discomfort, gastroenteritis, and intestinal motility issues.
Effective for diarrhea, loose bowel movement (LBM), and dysentery.
2. Oral Health
High fluoride content makes it a natural mouth gargle to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.
3. Skin Care
Used as a body cleanser or wash to treat minor wounds, rashes, and skin irritations.
4. General Wellness
Drinking Tsaang Gubat tea daily promotes overall good health and boosts immunity.
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How to Prepare and Use Tsaang Gubat
For Tea:
Wash the leaves thoroughly under running water.
Chop to a desirable size.
Boil 1 cup of chopped leaves in 2 cups of water over low heat for 15–20 minutes.
Strain and let it cool.
Dosage:
For diarrhea, gastroenteritis, and stomach pains: Take 1 cup every 4 hours.
As a daily tea: Drink 1–2 cups daily for general health benefits.
For Gargling:
Use the cooled decoction as a natural mouthwash to prevent cavities and maintain oral hygiene.
For Body Cleansing:
Apply the cooled decoction as a wash for wounds, rashes, or irritated skin.
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A Sustainable and Versatile Shrub
Tsaang Gubat is not only a medicinal wonder but also a sustainable plant that can be grown in backyards or farms. Its adaptability and low maintenance make it a valuable addition to any herbal garden.
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Conclusion
From relieving stomach pains to promoting oral health, Tsaang Gubat is truly a gift from nature. Its recognition by the DOH and BFAD underscores its significance as a reliable herbal medicine. Whether consumed as tea, used as a gargle, or applied as a body cleanser, this Philippine Tea Tree continues to prove its worth as a natural remedy for various ailments.
Why not brew yourself a cup of Tsaang Gubat today and experience its healing power firsthand?
