The use of herbal remedies in Jamaica

Abstract

A survey of paediatric inpatients at the Tropical Metabolism Research Unit in the University Hospital, Kingston, Jamaica demonstrates that 71% had been treated with herbal remedies before their presentation to the medical services. The risks of the high prevalence of such medication in children are outlined, and two remedies in particular are highlighted because of their potential toxicity.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Mental Disorders Among African Americans, Black Caribbeans, and Whites

“…At the same time, a higher proportion of black Caribbeans reported using herbal therapies compared to African Americans. The higher use of herbal therapy among black Caribbeans is consistent with research indicating the long history of traditional use of medicinal herbs among Caribbeans (30)(31)(32)(33).…”

Short-term variation in air quality associated with firework events: A case study

“…Entry of particles into lungs is dangerous, because they can carry a complex mixture of toxic pollutants from fireworks. Michie et al 34 have also studied effect of PM 10 particles on paediatric respiratory diseases following community fireworks. There are reports on the decrements in peak expiratory flow rates in children, in relation with PM 10 concentration 35 .…”

Evaluation of the Nutraceutical Potential of Rytidophyllum tomentosum (L.) Mart.: HPTLC Fingerprinting, Elemental Composition, Phenolic Content, and in vitro Antioxidant Activity

“…Although mostly anecdotal, evidence suggests that search-me-heart may be used as a remedy for colds, to treat malnutrition, stomach pains, high blood pressure, asthma, worms and heart conditions [9,10,13]. It should be noted that only one documented scientific study on search-me-heart could be found by the authors.…”

“…Jamaica is no exception, with previous reports showing a traditional dependency on the use of medicinal plants to treat illness, as well as an extensive knowledge of herbal remedies recommended by traditional practitioners [9,10]. Herbal teas or "bush teas", as they are known in Jamaica, are highly regarded, and although consumed in urban areas, their uses are more deeply rooted in rural, remote communities [8], where the "folk medical system" (treating ailments with herbs) tends to be the primary form of healthcare available [11].…”

“…Search-me-heart has been identified as one of fifty herbs most commonly used in Jamaica [8,9] and has been associated with many positive health benefits. Although mostly anecdotal, evidence suggests that search-me-heart may be used as a remedy for colds, to treat malnutrition, stomach pains, high blood pressure, asthma, worms and heart conditions [9,10,13].…”