Culture, Spirituality, Lifestyle, from Bali to Goa
(2)
Dāna: where to donate in Bali?
https://kalpavriksha.co/resources/dana/
(Dāna is a Sanskrit concept that describes the virtue of generosity, charity or giving of alms)
"An assurance unto all creatures with love and affection and abstention from every kind of injury, acts of kindness and favor done to a person in distress,
kalpavriksha.co/resources/medicinal-herbs-bali/
We can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always do your research first or ask a professional herbalist before using
Jatiluwih Mineral Water from Batukaru, the purest water on the island - WA 0812 1007 6668
https://web.facebook.com/jw.jatiluwihwater
(NEVER buy Aqua gallons, it is distilled or Reverse Osmosis water that is empty of any minerals and thus depletes your own body's minerals!)
Batukaru is a natural park, home to the only untouched rainforest in Bali, and the water is rich in minerals
There are also hot springs with healing properties around the mountain
That's also where they make Kaursotju, the highest quality brand of arak made with mineral water from the area!
Dune Alaya is a new Eco Lodge in Pemuteran
It is part of an Intentional Community based on Ayurvedic principles
A whole eco-village is in the making around the lodge, in Pemuteran / Pajarakan, with knowledge brought from the Auroville experimental township in India
Perfect for retreats as well.
https://www.facebook.com/dunealaya
Acaraki Sparkling is a local brand of soda based on Turmeric and less sugar. Can be found in most convenience stores
ANCIENT ELITE LIFESTYLE:
Rudra Sahasrara is a new Ayurvedic center in Ubud that offers all the profound, original ancient therapies like in Kerala (the medicinal hub of India):
01. Abhyanga = the application of oil to the skin followed by massage in a specific direction. This Ayurvedic treatment is beneficial for enhancing energy flow, improving skin texture, combating sleeplessness, alleviating fatigue, and addressing other conditions primarily related to the vata dosha.
02. Dhaara = involves the pouring of medicated liquids or oils onto a specific part or the entire body below the neck. This can be done using medicated oils, milk, or decoctions to suit the patient's needs.
Tailadhaara: entails pouring warmed oil over the entire body or specific areas in a prescribed manner, aiming to nourish the body.
Ksheeradhara: utilizes lukewarm medicated milk poured over the entire body to enhance blood circulation, relax the mind, lubricate joints, and relieve muscle and joint pain.
Dhanyamladhara: Dhanyamla, a medicated liquid, is created by boiling rice, lemon, dry ginger, horse gram, herbs, and millets. It is then poured over the patient's body for 30 minutes continuously with the help of two masseurs, used to treat various conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory issues, muscular sprains, obesity, and thyroidism.
03. Snehapaana = involves the oral intake of medicated or non-medicated ghee or oil for a specified period without mixing it with food. It is commonly administered before Vamana or Virechana treatments.
04. Swedana = the induction of sweating for therapeutic purposes, often serving as a preparatory procedure for Panchakarma or as an independent therapy. Medicated steam is used to induce sweating, which aids in opening the body's channels and promoting relaxation.
05. Udwarthana and Utsaadana
Udwarthana is a procedure that involves massaging the entire body below the neck with herbal powders in a direction opposite to the orientation of body hair. Utsaadana, a variation of Udwarthana, involves mixing the powder with liquid medicines like takradhaanyaamla or leaf juices and is used for massaging the entire body to eliminate excess fat.
06. Shirodhara = involves the continuous flow of oil onto the patient's forehead. The liquid medication is poured into a pot and then gradually trickled onto the patient's head from a specific height. It is commonly employed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and various neurological, psychological, and psychosomatic disorders.
07. Takradhara = a variation of shirodhara in which medicated buttermilk and other kashaayas are poured in a continuous stream over the patient's forehead, typically prescribed for conditions related to kapha and pitta aggravation such as skin disorders, diabetes, and stress.
08. Sirovasthi = involves pouring oil onto the patient's head, allowing it to remain there for a specified period, depending on the patient's condition. This treatment is highly effective for addressing facial paralysis, dryness in the nostrils, mouth, and throat, severe headaches, and other head-related ailments.
09. Thalapothicil = a traditional Ayurvedic treatment from Kerala involving the application of a medicated paste to the head using a specific procedure. It is effective in treating conditions like insomnia, hypertension, chronic headaches, skin diseases of the scalp, premature greying of hair, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
10. Karnapoopana = involves pouring oil into the ear, allowing it to remain for approximately three minutes. It is performed in a lateral position, filling one ear at a time after a thorough examination to avoid complications in patients with tympanic perforations.
Sodhana/ Pankacharma (Detoxification)
01. Vasthi - Detoxifying Medicated E***a
Vasthi, an Ayurvedic treatment known as medicated e***a, introduces liquid medications—like herbal oils, decoctions, and pastes—into the re**um to address various ailments. It’s particularly effective for conditions such as arthritis, paralysis, hemiplegia, numbness, stomach issues, rheumatism, and chronic constipation. There are three main types of Vasthi: Kashaya Vasti for spinal and rheumatoid issues, Sneha Vasti which utilizes special herbal concoctions, and Uttara Vasti, where herbal remedies are applied through the urethral or vaginal routes.
02. Vamana - Therapeutic Vomiting for Detoxification
Vamana is a detoxification technique that expels toxins via induced vomiting, targeting mainly the removal of excess kapha dosha—the third of the three principal bodily humors.
03. Virechana - Purgative Detoxification
Virechana purifies by clearing the bowels, removing waste and imbalanced doshas through the re**um. Tailored to individual needs, this treatment can involve various medicinal forms such as powders, tablets, jams, and medicated oils.
04. Nasya - Nasal Administration for Sinus and Nerve Health
Nasya involves administering herbal remedies through the nostrils to treat issues above the neck, clear kapha buildup, and bolster daily wellness. Regular practice promotes the health and clarity of skin, strength of sensory organs, and helps prevent hair greying.
05. Rakthamokshana - Blood Purification Therapy
Rakthamokshana, or therapeutic bloodletting, draws out impure blood to heal certain conditions. Techniques include leech therapy and Hijama (cupping), chosen based on the ailment being treated.
https://www.rusabali.com/therapies
Low-Tech Island Autonomy (building the Tropical Civilization):
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEstsyxsembTel-fflHXeAYyzL1s1csRI
FULL DATABASE OF USEFUL PLANTS FOR 100% ISLAND AUTONOMY https://tropical.theferns.info
(There is KYC and then there is KYB (Know Your Bali)):
https://kalpavriksha.co/base-genep/
Base genep translates as “complete spice”. It is a culinary paste that blends together more than a dozen ingredients.
A recipe for the Base Genep spice paste is mentioned in the Dharma Caruban manuscript, which describes food preparations for the royal courts, and in the Taru Pramana, an ancient Balinese manuscript which describes all the effects of Balinese medicinal plants.
This spice blend is similar to a curry paste and has been part of Balinese cuisine for at least 2,000 years.
The recipe is said to come from Draupadi, the main female protagonist of the Mahabharata and the wife of the five Pandava brothers (Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva).
[The most well-known part of Draupadi’s life was the episode of the famous ancient Vedic game of dice at Hastinapura (the “City of Elephants”), where Yudhishthira lost all his possessions.]
Base Genep ingredients
Each ingredient of Base Genep is associated with one of the sacred direction of space (dik in Sanskrit) and their associated deities:
- Galangal (Alpinia galanga), or Lengkuas is associated with Lord Brahma (South)
- Turmeric is associated with Lord Mahadewa (West)
- Ginger is associated with Lord Vishnu (North)
- Aromatic Ginger (Kaempferia galanga), or Kencur, associated with Lord Iswara (East)
- Indonesian Bay Leaf (Syzygium polyanthum), or Salam (a Balinese replacement of the Indian Bay leaf) are added, although Indian Bay leaf can also be found in Indonesia
- The rest of the blend consists of Coriander, Candlenuts (“Indian Walnut”) and Nutmeg, in a base of coconut oil
Several of these herbs are said to have psychic properties.
The essential ingredients of the blend are the aromatic root vegetables (Galangal, Lesser Galangal, Turmeric, Ginger, Garlic and Shallots).
Ancient vs Modern Recipes
Base Genep is especially found in the famous Balinese Betutu Chicken and sate lilit (fish satay), which combines the spice blend with ground fish, and as a component in sauces and soups, although not all restaurants use the original base genep recipe.
Indeed, chilies have been added since the Colombian Exchange, which were not present in the original recipe and many modern chefs ignore the spiritual undertones of the recipe, modifying it with other ingredients, which result in many derivations.
Simply put, Base Genep pastes that are using chilies are not the true recipe. Real Base Genep is not supposed to burn your tongue.
Before the introduction of red chili pepper in the 1500s during the Colombian Exchange, the peppery spice most used in Indonesia was Javanese Long Pepper (Piper retrofractum, a close cousin to pippali), a very powerful medicinal herb and a more refined spice than the red chili peppers used today in almost every local dish.
Therefore it is possible with some research to recreate the original Base Genep with maximal potency, using the true ancient recipes that existed before modern modifications.
Base genep translates as "complete spice". It is a culinary paste that blends together more than a dozen ingredients.
Eden Garden
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064777363741
Curiously, laddu are absent from Bali, even though Lord Ganesha always holds a matka pot full of laddus...
https://kalpavriksha.co/josh-schrei-why-i-am-revoking-my-yoga-alliance-registration/
Here is an interesting take by Josh Schrei of Tapta Marga Yoga, about the low standards of the Yoga Alliance, and why he chose not to be affiliated with it
Ancient Elite Food / medicinal snack:
- Makhana are roasted Water Lily seeds (Euryale ferox) enriched with spices
- Makhana replaces junk snacks from supermarkets while strengthening you with micro-nutrients
- The seeds give strength and reduce chronic fatigue
- Great for fertility, increases s***m count, especially when taken with milk
- It’s a longevity food and improves the skin’s complexion
- These seeds are processed in traditional ways, roasted and popped
- They are also called Gorgon nuts. In Chinese Medicine, it is called Qian Shi
- Makhana is often confused with Lotus seeds, which are are obtained from Nelumbo nucifera (Sacred Lotus / Indian Lotus). However, Makhanas (fox nuts) are obtained from Euryale ferox plants.
Makhana are roasted Water Lily seeds (Euryale ferox) enriched with spices Makhana replaces junk snacks from supermarkets while strengthening you with micro-nutrients The seeds give strength and reduce chronic fatigue Great for fertility, increases s***m count, especially when taken with milk It's a....
Plant-based floss made of banana blossoms, or “banana hearts” as they are also called
- Banana Blossom is a trendy superfood, high in fibers and packed with essential minerals
- The edible, purple blossoms do not taste like bananas
- The Banana flower is red in color and has astringent properties that pacify Vata and Pitta doshas
- These flowers are a rich source of anti-oxidants that protect the skin from free radicals and prevent fine lines
- Banana flowers concentrates several times the nutrition of eating the actual fruit
- In Ayurveda, bananas are called Kadali
- Seasoned with with Curry Masala taste
Ingredients: Banana blossom, vegetable broth, galangal, bayleaf, salt, sesame seed, cumin, coriander, cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, fennel, star anise, curry leaf.
Plant-based floss made of banana blossoms, or “banana hearts” as they are also called Banana Blossom is a trendy superfood, high in fibers and packed with essential minerals The edible, purple blossoms do not taste like bananas The Banana flower is red in color and has astringent properties that...
Za’atar (Nootropic spread)
Za’atar is an ancient medicinal and culinary herbal spread made with Thyme, Roasted Sesame seeds, Sumac and Olive oil
It is used as a condiment in foods, or often simply enjoyed as a spread on flatbread
This peculiar herbal combination has a pungent flavor unlike any other spice blend, and is incredibly aromatic
Its exquisite taste combines with powerful health benefits:
- Sumac, Thyme and Sesame seeds, the ingredients that make up Za’atar, are all full of antioxidants that protect your cells from damage, especially from the sun’s UV
- Za’atar strengthens the immune system, improves the skin and builds strong bones
- When taken in a certain quantity on an empty stomach, you can literally feel the blood flow increase in your veins and strengthening you with vital energy
- It also clears out the lungs and is therefore sometimes used by breathwork and yoga practitioners
- Overall, it gives you more energy, and improves your mood and memory – it has powerful nootropic effects
- It is considered a medhya (brain and memory-enhancer) food in Ayurveda
- It is an ancient food from the Levant, Persia and North India – it was used in Ancient Egypt and is mentioned by Dioscorides (the “Father of Pharmacognosy”)
- Some advanced versions of Za’atar can even include Hyssop (a sacred herb mentioned in the Bible)
- Depending on the exact combination, the taste can be either sour, bitter, or toasty
- Safe to consume every day
Za’atar is an ancient medicinal and culinary herbal spread made with Thyme, Roasted Sesame seeds, Sumac and Olive oil It is used as a condiment in foods, or often simply enjoyed as a spread on flatbread This peculiar herbal combination has a pungent flavor unlike any other spice blend, and is incr...
Sappanwood (Caesalpinia sappan), is used to make a medicinal tea with a mild taste and a beautiful pink-colored hue.
- Sappanwood is used to cleanse the blood
- It is thirst quenching and purifies water
- It is excellent for the skin and removes fine wrinkles
- It contains brazilin, a phytochemical protects the skin against UV rays and skin photo aging
- Sappanwwood can greatly prevent tooth decay. It has very powerful antimicrobial properties and is effective against cariogenic bacteria, especially Streptococcus mutans (the bacteria which causes most of tooth decay)
- Sappanwood has a protective effect on the brain. It contains Protosappanin A, which greatly inhibits oxidative and nitrative stress
- It is excellent for treating wounds and reduces the pain when used as a wound wash
- Because of its blood and skin-purifying effects, it also cures acne
Sappanwood is traditionally boiled mixed with Ginger, Cinnamon, Cloves, Coriander seeds and Cardamom, to make a drink called pathimukham in Sanskrit. You can also squeeze a bit of lime into it
- It is an astringent, and therefore used for dysentery, diarrhea an skin diseases
- The red pigment (brazilin) obtained from the wood is also used as a natural food color.
- However, the brazilin in Sappanwood is toxic to pregnant and breastfeeding women
Sappanwood (Caesalpinia sappan), is used to make a medicinal tea with a mild taste and a beautiful pink-colored hue. Sappanwood is used to cleanse the blood It is excellent for the skin and removes fine wrinkles It contains brazilin, a phytochemical which protects the skin against UV rays and skin p...
Kenari Nuts are an excellent source of amino acids, omega-3, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, potassium and manganese
- When roasted, their nutty flavor and texture make it similar to the pine nut
- Handpicked from wild Kenari trees grown on fertile volcanic soil
There are currently five East Forest Kenari Nuts variants with signature flavors:
- Unsalted
- Sea Salt
- Cacao & Cinnamon
- Spicy Salted Caramel
- Trail Mix
Each variant is crafted from a blend of organic certified Indonesian tropical ingredients purchased directly from Kawanasi’s local partners scattered in various remote areas across Indonesia, such as Balinese Sea Salt, Fermented Balinese Cacao, Sumatran Cinnamon, Bantenese Arenga Sugar, etc.
- Kenari nuts are also known as Pili nuts in the Philippines
- Kenari nuts are one of the major ingredients in the Chinese Moon Cake
- In Indonesia, especially in Minahasa and Moluccas islands, the kernels are used for making cake (bobengka)
- The young shoots and the fruit pulp of the tree are edible too
Kenari Nuts are an excellent source of amino acids, omega-3, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, potassium and manganese When roasted, their nutty flavor and texture make it similar to the pine nut Handpicked from wild Kenari trees grown on fertile volcanic soil There are currently five East Forest Kenari....
The use of ancient South Asian cosmetics is directed towards longevity (aayush), health (aarogyam) and happiness (anandam):
- Different lepās (masks) are recommended. The Ashtānga Hridaya gives 6 different formulations, to be used for the different seasons of the year.
- Special cosmetic Tailams (Oils) and Ghritas (medicated ghee) are used for facial beauty.
- Many remedies are designed for hair growth and premature graying.
- Many of these ancient practices intersect with dinacharyā, the Ayurvedic daily routine.
In the Ashtānga Hridaya work for instance, 210 botanicals and 314 formulations are listed and described.
These recipes are called Anubhoga Vaidya Bhāga, which means “recipes tested by experience”
Several treatises and texts discuss herbal cosmetics and beauty treatments:
- Charaka Samhita: One of the main Ayurvedic scriptures, it contains some sections on beaut, cosmetics, natural ingredients and their cosmetic uses. It emphasizes the importance of using herbs and minerals for skin and haircare
- Sushruta Samhita: Includes information on beauty enhancements and recommendations for improving one’s appearance.
- Bhavaprakasha: A comprehensive Ayurvedic text that addresses medicine, anatomy, dietetics, pharmacology and therapy, as well as the manufacture of aphrodisiacs and elixirs. The work also includes a remedy for syphilis.
- Harita Samhita: Provides recipes for making natural beauty products with the use of herbs, minerals and other ingredients
- Ratnāvalī: A Sanskrit play from the 7th century that includes references to beauty practices and cosmetics, offering insights into the beauty culture of ancient India
- Ka*****ra: Contains information on grooming, personal care, and beauty
These treatises also provide knowledge on beauty regimens and practices to enhance the physical appearance overall.
A FEW ANCIENT COSMETIC FORMULAS
The Raja Serfoji II of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu had established an Institute of Medical Research called the Dhanvantari Mahāl, where experiments were conducted, and he selected a few thousand efficacious recipes after actually testing them:
- Cure for dandruff – “Pound Khas-khas seeds (Papaver somniferum) in milk and apply to the scalp. It will cure dandruff”.
Breast development – “Powder together the root of Aswagandha (Withania somnifera), the fruit of Gajapimpali (Scindapsus officinalis), the root of Kosta (Saussurea lappa) and the rhizomes of Vacha (Acorus calamus). To this powder add butter made from buffalo’s milk and massage the bust with this medicated butter. This will increase the bustline and make it firm and shapely”.
- Cure for pimples – “The application of plaster composed of Dhana (Coriandrum sativum), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) and Kushtha (Saussurea lappa) pasted together is also recommended for curing pimples”.
- Deodorant powder – “The powder from the barks of Sahakara (Mangifera indica) tree and Dalimba (Punica granatum) tree, mixed with Shankha (Fragrant Shell) powder and applied to the relevant part of the body, removes bad odor. The powder made of Chincha (Tamarindus indica) and Karanja (Pongamia glabra) seeds, if applied also removes bad odor.”
- Lip balm / lip salve – “Cracked lips, besides being painful, spoil the beauty of the face. The following remedy was recommended in such cases – “If the rind of Bael fruit (Aegle marmelos) is levigated (i.e. powdered and mixed) in a woman’s milk and the paste thus prepared is applied to the cracked lips, within 10 days the cracking will stop and the cracks will heal.”
- Skin lightning and exfoliating scrub – “The following paste used to be applied to the body to make the skin a shade or two lighter and give it a natural glow – “Pound together the root of Kushtha (Saussurea lappa), Til seeds (Sessamum indicum), the leaves of Sirisa (Albizzia lebbek), the leaves of Chopda (Pongamia pinnata), the wood of Devdar (Cedrus deodara) and the wood of Zadali Haled (Berberis aristata) Roast this mixture between dried cakes of buffalo dung, then take it out and grind it properly to a fine powder. If the paste made from this compound is applied to the body for three consecutive days, the above mentioned desired results will be obtained”.
- Depilatory – “Pound together dried fruits of Aavalakatti (Emblica officinalis) and dried fruits of Pippali (Piper longum). Soak this mixture in the milky latex of Nivadunga (Euphorbia nivulia) If this compound is applied to the desired place, the hair from that area will fall off”.
- Face pack – “Take Masura (Lens culinaris) and pound with Madhu (Honey). The paste so prepared, rubbed for seven nights, gives the splendor of the petals of the White Lotus flower to the face”.
Hair remedy for premature graying – “Juice of Bhringaraja (Eclipta alba), together with Lohakitta (Iron-rust: Non-botanical. Iron oxide, normally Red oxide.). Triphala, cooked in oil when applied (to the scalp), would cure dandruff, itching, alopecia and would also darken the hair”.
The use of ancient South Asian cosmetics is directed towards longevity (aayush), health (aarogyam) and happiness (anandam):
The modern organic industry is constantly churning out made-up "healthy" products, while much more simple and cost-effective, timeless formulas such as Gur Chana are readily available:
Gur Chana is an ancient snack made of roasted chickpeas coated with jaggery (the healthiest form of natural sugar).
This simple combination brings nutritional effects way beyond the two ingredients taken separately. It is one of the most underrated superfoods.
[Gur means jaggery (cane sugar), and chana means chickpea]
During the cooking process, a culinary process occurs which loads Gur Chana with refined nutrients. As a result:
- Gur Chana improves your face's skin glow
- It reduces fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and acne
- Gur Chana is a high-protein food. The combination of cane sugar and chickpea assists in building muscles, which makes it an excellent post-workout snack
- Gur Chana is rich in brain-food nutrients. It is both a medhya and rasāyana food
- Its high minerals content strengthens your teeth
- Very high in magnesium, potassium, zinc and selenium. Improves and cures iron deficiency
- Reduces hair loss (also due to the high mineral content)
- Cane sugar and chickpea, when eaten together, increase your metabolism and helps in reducing weight
- Used by menstruating women to compensate for the loss of key minerals
- As if all this was not enough, it also helps in cleansing and detoxifying the body
Like many of the ancient medicinal snacks, Gur Chana is designed to taste good and is therefore a no-brainer replacement for toxic junk food snacks.
The Gur-Chana combination can also be made into a laddu (Thambittu laddu) – see recipe here – or roasted gram balls (Pottukadalai Urundai)
How to make Gur Chana:
Roasted chickpeas coated with Jaggery (cane sugar) The modern organic industry is constantly churning out made-up "healthy" products, while much more simple and cost-effective, timeless formulas such as Gur Chana are readily available: Gur Chana is an ancient snack made of roasted chickpeas coated w...
Cheruthen, or Stingless Bee Honey is a rare medicinal honey made in Bali which is twice as nutritious as ordinary honey.
- Stingless bee (Meliponini bees) honey is considered medicinal because it collects nectar and pollen from small, wild-growing plants where it is it is difficult for bigger bees to get inside smaller flowers.
- Stingless bees largely feed on coco palm, banana, guava, papaya, mango, tamarind, thumbapoo, touch-me-not plant (thottavadi), jackfruit tree, Tulsi (Holy Basil), Communist pacha, kulir mavu, teak
- Cheruthen is thinner than normal honey, because of its high moisture content. This ferments the honey and is considered highly medicinal.
- It has a sour-sweet taste, just like honey/lemon, because of its fermentation (similar to the process involved in making kefir)
- Because of its high antimicrobial properties, cheruthen is useful in treating a lot of diseases. It also helps build immunity
- Because of its qualities, Cheruthen is used in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine.
- Cheruthen production is much less compared to that of ordinary honey.
- Normal honey bees can produce up to 40 times more honey than stingless bees.
- The average honey production by a stingless bee colony is about 350 grams to 1kg of honey in a year.
- This makes the honey from stingless bees more expensive and rare.
MEDICINAL USES
- Cheruthen is very effective as a wound and burn healer (in external application)
- It reduces obesity if used daily with warm water. Helps in reducing weight or beer belly
- One of the best natural medicine for constipation
- Sharpens memory, especially for kids
- Very effective for cold and cough
- Helps to fall asleep deep at night
- Pregnant ladies can benefit from it
- Gives a glowing skin and lips
- Has general antiaging effects
- A very good food for brain development in children
- Contains no bee pollen. So there is no chance for allergies due to pollen
- It is also important for bones and teeth
- It improve the healing rate of wounds and burns
- Aphrodisiac effects have been reported
Cheruthen, or Stingless Bee Honey is a rare medicinal honey which is twice as nutritious as ordinary honey. Stingless bee (Meliponini bees) honey is considered medicinal because it collects nectar and pollen from small, wild-growing plants where it is it is difficult for bigger bees to get inside sm...
Cubeb berries (Piper cubeba), an ancient remedy to cure sadness and depression:
- Cubeb pepper (Piper cubeba) berries are mostly grown in Java. - - They look similar to black pepper, but have stalks, or "tails" attached
- Cubeb pepper makes the mind more clear, concentrated, cheerful and perceptive, and improves the mood
- Cubeb berries are used in folk medicine for memory problems, sadness and depression
- Chewing the whole grains reduces anxiety and eliminates headaches (in German heilkunde, Cubeb pepper is known as "dizzy seeds")
- Hildegard von Bingen recommends chewing 2 pieces of cubeb pepper several times a day to enhance mental strength
Paracelsus describes Cubeb pepper as a “warming spice” and attributes to it life-prolonging effects
- Cubeb is an expectorant with mucus-dissolving properties
- It is also a cough-suppressant for bronchitis, and generally to address respiratory symptoms
- It is an antiseptic for gonorrhea treatment - the grains are given in all stages of gonorrhea
- Cubeb berries improve fertility, and aid to treat problems related to the urinary tract and the prostate gland
- It is said to darken the hair, and perfume the body
- Cubeb berries quickly harmonize the bladder and the kidneys
- They are also used to treat gleet (discharges from wounds)
- They are also employed to treat fever, oral and dental conditions, bad breath and infections
- Cubeb is an aphrodisiac, but at the same time helps with semen retention
- Hildegard von Bingen says: "When someone eats cubeb, the unseemly desire that is in him is tempered. The inordinate warmth of the cubeb extinguishes the unseemly glut of desire in which stinking and muddy liquids are hidden. Cubeb makes the spirit of man and his mind brightly clear”
- The appearance of cubeb peppers supports a strong relationship with the mind, based on the Doctrine of Signatures.
Recipes and formulas:
- Hildegard von Bingen recommendeds the combination of cubeb pepper with bertram, licorice and nutmeg
- A medieval European recipe includes cubeb in making sauce sarcenes, which consists of almond milk and several spices
- Cubeb was traditionally candied and eaten whole as an aromatic confectionery
- In the Middle Ages, people in Poland infused cumin, cubeb and garlic in vinegar to prepare ocet kubebowy, which was used to marinate meat.
- Cubeb is very used to augment the taste of soups
- These berries must ground fresh and whole. When ground, they lose their essential oil very rapidly.
- Cubeb ci******es were manufactured until World War II and they were prescribed as a remedy for asthma (Marshall's Prepared Cubeb Ci******es was a popular brand)
Folklore
- During the Middle Ages, alchemists had a special preference for cubeb berries, as they were thought to protect from demonic possession
- In Europe and China it was used to repel demons and was used in exorcism
- Several love potions contain cubeb berries
African-American hoodoo folk magic often uses cubeb berries for drawing magic spells, especially for love
- Its medicinal properties used to be well-known, but sine the King of Portugal prohibited the sale of cubeb in the 1600s to promote his monopoly on black pepper (Piper nigrum) around 1640, it has practically vanished from the European market since.
- The Book of One Thousand and One Nights mentions cubeb as a remedy for infertility
Cubeb pepper (Piper cubeba) berries are mostly grown in Java. They look similar to black pepper, but have stalks, or "tails" attached Cubeb pepper makes the mind more clear, concentrated, cheerful and perceptive, and improves the mood Cubeb berries are used in folk medicine for memory problems, sadn...
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