Say hello to Sambong! Blumea balsamifera is one of 10 medicinal plants recommended by the Department of Health. It has long been used to treat different kinds of issues, including kidney stones! (HIA Boy 2018).
However, using Sambong for general use has its challenges. Determining which plants are good for you, and which do nothing or can be hurtful, has yet to be properly introduced to the general public. Another issue is possible overexploitation of indigenous plants and medicinal knowledge (WHO, Western Pacific Region, Manila, 2002).
More studies and policies must be made, in collaboration with Indigenous People and communities knowledgeable in medicinal plants. Together with proper conservation policies, Philippine native plants can continue to thrive, and treat us all!
(See Sambong tea at Filipino Food Art)
References
- HIA Boy, et al., 2018. Recommended Medicinal Plants as Source of Natural Products: A Review. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589377719300187
- WHO, Wester Pacific Region, Manila, 2002. Regional strategy for traditional medicine in the Western Pacific. https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/206953/9290610115_eng.pdf?sequence=1
Printable art
Download and print this Sambong art for your home, or for a friend or family member!
- Printable full color art: https://phwildlifeart.gumroad.com/l/sambong-blumea-balsamifera
- Printable coloring page: https://phwildlifeart.gumroad.com/l/Sambong-Blumea-balsamifera-coloring-page
More plants and trees
- Begonia tandikan
- Payung-Payungan (Tacca palmata)
- Rafflesia consueloae
- More plants and trees!