Preface

The title of this work is extracted from the name of a diminutive herb, with distinct features, that has been not widely reported as useful to locals but belongs to a group of plants known for anticancer properties. A few reports suggest that it is used for prostate health by some. The name of the plant is used metaphorically to represent the seed knowledge that has been protected by the pages of Barbadian experience and history.

The Seed-Under-The-Leaf was written to contribute to the awareness of the heritage value associated with the innovative use of plant biodiversity, available in the Caribbean, by early people of Barbados and the relevance to the modern practice of the tradition. Scientific validation of this heritage knowledge is now an everyday occurrence as Caribbean scientists recognise the social importance and value of the tradition. Scholars who focus on the history of the Caribbean have made contributions in unearthing the dynamics of plants and people in the emerging societies during and after the period of colonisation. The value of this perspective is the focus on the parameters that led to the development of the structure of the residual oral practice and the conduit provided to the intrinsic value of the heritage.

The perspective offered is not an extensive treatment of the Barbadian pharmacopoeia. This will be highlighted in a subsequent effort. Images are provided to assist in the recognition of some of the plant species mentioned but these are also not exhaustive. Scientific names are provided for all species mentioned and related imagery can be readily sourced. More importantly, is the transmission of the importance of the tradition which has been handed down through time and the stimulation of interest in the preservation of knowledge and conservation of the related botanicals.

This short perspective reflects my commitment to re-energising interest in so called ‘wild plants’, in addition to providing humans with oxygen, are natural drug laboratories and storehouses of medicine. I am also fascinated by the veracity of the knowledge base as some of the more commonly used therapies are being proven by the application of the scientific method. One notable discovery is that of the Breadfruit leaf, which is used as a natural medicine for the treatment of hypertension, produces a group of natural products which can regulate pressure in the blood vessels. It is significant that experimentation via trial and error in the selection of plants, and the preparation of the medicine, led people to that same discovery without the sophistication of instruments. Here in lies the fascination.

Seed Under The Leaf

Contents

Preface

Acknowledgement

I - Introduction

II - Historical Perspective

III - Some Aspects of Modern Plant Usage

Village Health Care

Colds and flu

Diabetes and hypertension

Dermatitis and general skin problems

Longevity through cleansing and detoxification

Cooling Teas

IV - The Value of Medicinal Gardens

Appendix

Glossary of terms

Plant names

Reference list