The GREEN Revolution
By Angelica Mercado
Hi, I hope you don’t mind if I sing a song for you. Okay here I go.
“Bahay kubo, kahit munti
Ang halaman doon, ay sari sari ..”
Have you ever heard of this song. I bet you do. Even my five year old cousin managed to memorize it. I hear contestants of a noon time show mention it almost everyday. But do you know what those fruits and vegetables being mentioned in that song really was? Or shoud I say, do you have any idea how our body need those foods?
Singkamas or Turnips- This thirst quenching vegetable is low in calorie. It is also known for its dietary fiber. Thus, it can sufficiently satisfy hunger without being heavy on the belly.
Talong or Eggplant - is a nutritious vegetable that has known medicinal values including its antioxidant activity and anti fungal properties. Dried juice of talong can also be used to treat body pains and fever.
Sigarilyas or Winged beans- The calcium present in these beans helps in the production and maintenance of the bones and provides strength to overcome diseases and weaknesses.
Mani or Peanut- are the best sources of protein in the plant kingdom. Peanuts are rich in heart-friendly monounsaturated fats and antioxidants such as oleic acid.
Sitaw or String beans- The antioxidant in this vegetable helps to prevent cholesterol from becoming oxidized. Oxidized cholesterol is able to stick to and build up in blood vessel walls, where it can cause blocked arteries, heart attack or stroke.
Bataw or Hyacinth bean- The stems of hyacinth bean is used for the treatment of cholera while the pods juice is use for inflamed throat and ears treatment.
Patani or Lima beans - A good source of magnesium, lima beans helps relieve fatigue, by promoting the relaxation of muscles, nerves and blood vessels.
Kundol or Ash gourd - It can be used for facial blemishes; moisturizing and skin softening use; anti-wrinkle and anti-aging skin properties; preventing sun damage.
Patola or Sponge gourd - it is good source of calcium and iron and an excellent source of phosphorus. A fair source of vitamin B.
Upo or Bottle gourd - it is useful in coughs, and as an altitude to certain poisons.
Kalabasa or Squash - beneficial at preventing cancer and lung disease,high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Labanos or Raddish - increases the production of urine. It also help detoxify the blood and liver.
Mustasa or Mustard greens - useful in ridding off poisonous substances in the system. It is also valuable to pregnant women and for nursing mothers.
Sibuyas or Onions - Just by eating half a medium raw onion daily can significantly lower cholesterol and help prevent heart attacks.
Kamatis or Tomato- Tomato is a rich source of lycopene and eating tomatoes can reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Bawang or Garlic- Garlic could end your hair loss problems because of its high levels of allicin, a sulfur compound
Luya or Ginger- is claimed to have many medicinal value, from antibacterial, anti- inflamatory to anti nausea and treatment of sore throat.
Linga or Sesame - a very good source of manganese and copper, but they are also a good source of calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, vitamin B1, zinc and dietary fiber.