101 Medicinal Herbs Of Jamaica
Natural Remedies That Works!

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Jamaica's rich history of herbal healing is deeply rooted in our diverse cultural heritage. From the time of the tianos, who first inhabited the island, to our African ancestors who brought their own knowledge of medicinal plants, herbal healing has always been a part of Jamaican life. These traditions were further enriched by the influx of the Europeans and Asians, each adding their own herbal wisdom to the mix.

Now that aside, lets dive now into this guide where I'll show you these,  Jamaica's finest medicinal herbs. With over 300 medicinal herbs here on island, it was rather difficult to narrow this list, but this list, we feel, is an excellent representation of the variety we have here.

Ram Goat Dashalong/ Damiana (Turnera diffusa)

In addition to its scientific name, each herb comes with a quick peek at what makes it special, so you can easily find the right remedy for your needs. Ready?

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1. Guinea Hen Weed (Petiveria alliacea): Boosts the immune system, helps with colds and fevers, and may aid in fighting some cancers. (Watch video)
2. Guava Leaves (Psidium guajava): Helps in treating diarrhea, lowering blood sugar levels, and is packed with antioxidants for immune support. (Watch video) 
3. Neem (Azadirachta indica): Strengthens your immune defenses, tackles skin infections, and promotes good oral health. (Watch video)
   
4. Cerasee (Momordica charantia): Cleanses the blood, detoxifies your system, and helps with skin troubles. (Watch video)
5. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Fights off infections, boosts your immune system, and eases digestive issues. (Watch video)
6. Soursop (Annona muricata), aka Graviola: Powerful anti-cancer properties. Treats respiratory infections, helps with insomnia, and reduces inflammation.  (Watch video)
   
7. Moringa (Moringa oleifera): This superfood enhances immunity, boosts energy, and supports overall well-being. (Watch video)
8. Peppermint (Mentha piperita): Calms digestive problems, eases nausea, and helps bring down fevers.
9. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Aids digestion, reduces inflammation, and supports healthy skin. (Watch video)
10. Aloe Vera, aka Sinkle Bible (Aloe barbadensis miller): Good for your digestive health, soothes skin irritations, and helps heal wounds. (Watch video)
11. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum): Supports digestion, enhances circulation, and stabilizes blood sugar levels. (Watch video)
12. Fever Grass (Cymbopogon citratus): Lowers fever, eases respiratory issues, and helps with digestion. (Watch video)
    
13. Vervain (Verbena officinalis): Calms your nerves, supports reproductive health, and aids digestion.
14. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Enhances memory, relieves stress, and aids digestion. (Watch video)
15. New! Dog Blood Bush (Rivina humilis): Cleanses the reproductive system and supports women’s health. (Watch video)
    
16. Jack In The Bush (Eupatorium odoratum): Known for its strong aroma, this herb is used to treat colds, coughs, and respiratory conditions. It’s also applied topically to wounds and sores for its healing properties.
17. Bird Pepper (Cayenne) (Capsicum annuum): Known for its intense heat, cayenne pepper aids digestion, improves circulation, and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used to relieve pain and support metabolic health. (Watch video)
18. Red Water Grass (Commelina diffusa): Known for its diuretic properties, it helps in treating urinary tract infections and reducing swelling.
    
19. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): A powerful antimicrobial herb that aids in respiratory issues, boosts the immune system, and improves digestion.
20. Callaloo (Amaranthus viridis): A nutrient-rich leafy green that supports overall health, especially bone and eye health, due to its high vitamin A and calcium content.
21. Banana Leaf (Musa spp.): Traditionally used for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps soothe burns, and skin irritations, and aids digestion.
22. Breadfruit Leaf (Artocarpus altilis): Used to treat high blood pressure and diabetes, and is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
23. Leaf of Life (Bryophyllum pinnatum): Great for coughs, colds, and respiratory infections.
24. Guaco (Mikania glomerata): Used to treat respiratory issues, it’s known for its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
    
    🎉New! Now you can purchase most of these Jamaican herbs (100% organic and wildcrafted), as well as other authentic Jamaican products here for 15% off using code https://etsy.me/3X5bPso?coupon=WEBSITE15. Click here to visit our store.
    
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    LESSER KNOWN GEMS
    
    
25. Bissy (Cola acuminata): Detoxifies your body, treats poisoning, and aids in digestion. (Watch video)
26. Pimento (Pimenta dioica): Eases muscle pain, aids digestion, and supports respiratory health. (Watch video)
    
27. Papaya Leaf (Carica papaya): Enhances immunity, helps with dengue fever, and improves digestion. (Watch video)
    
28. Fits Weed (Eryngium foetidum), also known as Spirit Weed or Culantro, is commonly used here to treat a variety of ailments, including seizures (hence the name "Fits Weed"), colds, and respiratory conditions.The plant is also known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticonvulsant properties. Traditionally, it is brewed into a tea or used in poultices for external application to relieve pain and inflammation. (Watch video)
29. Tuna Plant (Opuntia spp.): Also known as prickly pear cactus, it is used to manage blood sugar levels, support digestive health, and provide hydration. The pads and fruits are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins.
30. Wild Basil (Ocimum gratissimum): Supports lung health, treats colds, and eases coughs.
31. Irish Moss/Sea Moss (Chondrus crispus/ Genus Gracillaria): Rich in minerals, it supports skin health, boosts immunity, and improves thyroid function. And yes it is from the Sea. (Watch Video)
32. Spanish Needle (Bidens pilosa): Treats digestive issues, respiratory infections, and helps heal wounds.
    
33. Orange Peel (Citrus sinensis): Used to aid digestion, reduce nausea, and as a source of vitamin C to boost the immune system.
    
34. Corn Silk (Zea mays): Known for its diuretic properties, it helps in treating urinary tract infections and reducing fluid retention.
35. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): Supports liver health, aids digestion, and acts as a natural diuretic to flush out toxins.(Watch Video)
36. Arrow Root (Maranta arundinacea): Known for its soothing effects on the digestive system, it helps treat diarrhea, and is often used as a thickener in cooking.
    
37. Annatto (Bixa orellana): Supports cardiovascular health and provides antioxidant benefits, with a traditional use in treating skin conditions. (Watch video)
38. West Indian Bay Leaves (Pimenta racemosa): Used for their aromatic qualities, these leaves help with digestive issues, alleviate muscle pain, and have antibacterial properties. They are commonly used in culinary dishes and traditional remedies for their soothing effects. (Watch Video)
39. Donkey Weed (Desmodium incanum): This herb is commonly used in Jamaican folk medicine for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It's often used to treat colds, fever, and respiratory issues. The leaves can be brewed into a tea to help with coughs and bronchitis.
    
40. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare): Aids in digestion, reduces bloating, and has mild anti-inflammatory properties. It's also used to soothe colic in infants.
41. Wild Hops (Humulus lupulus): Used to promote relaxation and treat anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues.
42. Beet Root Leaf (Beta vulgaris): Rich in iron and other nutrients, it supports blood health, boosts immunity, and aids digestion.
43. Basaida Tree (Brosimum alicastrum): Known for its ability to nourish and strengthen the body, this tree’s leaves and bark are used to treat various ailments, including respiratory issues and digestive problems. It’s also used as a general wellness tonic.
    
44. Jamaican Burdock (Triumfetta rhomboidea): Used traditionally for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties, Jamaican Burdock supports liver function and helps treat skin conditions. It’s also believed to aid in digestion and boost overall wellness. (Watch Video)
45. Pear (Avocado) Leaf (Persea americana): Used to treat high blood pressure, support digestive health, and alleviate menstrual pain.
46. Damiana (Ram Goat National) (Turnera diffusa): Traditionally used as a natural aphrodisiac, it’s also known for its mood-enhancing properties, helping to reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity. (Watch Video)
    
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    HIDDEN GEMS
    
    
47. Stinging Nettle aka Cowitch (Urtica dioica): Helps with allergic conditions, arthritis, and as a general anti-inflammatory and diuretic.
48. Chew Stick (Gouania lupuloides): Commonly used in Jamaica for oral health, chew stick is traditionally chewed to clean teeth, freshen breath, and promote gum health. It’s also known to aid digestion.
49. Chaney Root (Smilax balbisiana): Purifies the blood, supports fertility, and boosts energy.
    
50. Sarsaparilla (Smilax spp.): Known for its detoxifying effects, it supports blood purification, treats skin conditions, and may help with arthritis and digestive issues. (Watch video)
    
51. Bamboo Leaves (Bambusa vulgaris): Good for skin conditions, supports respiratory health, and acts as a natural diuretic. (Watch video)
52. Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus): This plant is used for its anti-cancer and anti-diabetic properties. It’s also known to help in treating high blood pressure and boosting overall cardiovascular health.
53. Noni (Morinda citrifolia): Enhances fertility, boosts immunity, aids digestion, and helps relieve pain. (Watch Video) See also: 100 health benefits of Noni
54. Susumber/ Gully Bean (Solanum torvum): Eases asthma, lowers high blood pressure, and reduces inflammation.
55. Anise (Pimpinella anisum): Eases digestive discomfort, treats coughs, and cold symptoms.
    
56. Scotch Bonnet Pepper (Capsicum chinense): Boosts metabolism, relieves pain, and supports heart health.
    
57. Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum): While often associated with smoking, in traditional Jamaican medicine, tobacco leaves are sometimes used in poultices for pain relief and to treat insect bites.
58. Purslane (Portulaca oleracea): Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, purslane supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
59. Shame O Lady, aka Dead n Wake (Mimosa pudica): Traditionally used for its calming effects on the nervous system and to treat wounds and skin conditions.
60. Trumpet Leaf (Cecropia peltata): Used to manage diabetes and hypertension, and to treat respiratory ailments and digestive issues. (Watch video)
61. Pepper Elder (Peperomia pellucida): This herb is known for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and digestive benefits in Jamaican herbal medicine. It's commonly used to treat conditions such as urinary tract infections, digestive issues, and respiratory problems. The leaves are often used in teas or poultices for their soothing and therapeutic properties.
62. Chanca Piedra/ Stone Breaker, aka Seed Under Leaf or Seed-Pon-Back(Phyllanthus niruri): Renowned for its ability to support kidney health, and treat kidney stones and liver conditions.
    
63. Devil's Horsewhip (Achyranthes aspera): Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps with arthritis, digestive issues, and respiratory conditions.
    
64. Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera): Excellent for skin health, aids digestion, and promotes overall well-being. (Watch video)
65. Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum): Primarily used to support liver health, it helps detoxify the liver, improves digestion, and has antioxidant properties.
66. Duppy Gun (Ruellia tuberosa): Traditionally used for its diuretic properties, helping to flush out toxins and relieve edema.
67. Search Mi Heart (Rhytidophyllum tomentosum): A traditional remedy for high blood pressure, heart conditions, and respiratory issues.
68. Ackee Leaf (Blighia sapida): Traditionally used to treat colds, fever, and digestive issues, and as a natural remedy for arthritis.
69. Chicken Weed (Portulaca oleracea): Used to treat skin conditions, reduce inflammation, and support heart health due to its omega-3 content.
70. King of the Forest (Cassia alata): This herb is widely used in Jamaica to treat skin conditions like ringworm and fungal infections. It also acts as a natural laxative and is used to cleanse the digestive system. (Watch Video)
71. Jamaican Fresh Cut Herb: Also known as Eryngium foetidum, this herb is commonly used in Jamaican traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, including fever, colds, and respiratory issues. It’s also used to flavor soups and stews.
72. Passion Fruit Flower (Passiflora edulis): The flower of the passion fruit plant is known for its calming effects, often used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and nervous disorders. It’s also beneficial for lowering blood pressure.
73. Wild Ginger (Zingiber zerumbet): Used for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, wild ginger is often brewed into teas.
74. Love Vine or Love Bush (Cassytha filiformis): This herb is traditionally used to treat colds, fevers, and respiratory conditions. It is used to enhance male vitality and treat sexual weakness. It has detoxifying properties and is used in herbal baths.
75. Bitterwood (Picrasma excelsa): A well-known tonic in Jamaica, bitterwood is used to stimulate appetite, aid digestion, and treat fever. Its bitter taste is indicative of its powerful detoxifying and digestive properties.
    
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76. Leonotis Nepetifolia (Lion’s Ear): Used for its calming effects and to relieve respiratory issues, such as coughs and colds.
77. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra): Elderberry is well-known for its immune-boosting properties and is highly sought after in Jamaican herbal remedies. The berries and flowers are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, especially vitamin C, making them effective in fighting colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. Traditionally, elderberry is used to reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and as a diuretic. The fruit is often prepared as syrups, teas, or infusions, while the flowers can be brewed for soothing teas.(Watch Video).
78. John Charles (Hyptis verticillata):  This plant is used for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. It's traditionally applied as a poultice to treat wounds, skin infections, and boils. The leaves are also used in teas to help with digestive problems.
79. Rice Bitters (Andrographis paniculata): Known for its potent detoxifying and immune-boosting properties, Rice Bitters is traditionally used in Jamaica to cleanse the blood, support liver health, and treat digestive issues. It’s also celebrated for its ability to reduce inflammation and fight infections.
80. Duck Flower (Richardia scabra): Known for its use in detoxifying the body and improving digestive health (Watch Video).
81. Ramoon (Trophis racemosa): This herb is revered in Jamaican herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It’s commonly used to treat muscle pain, joint issues, and various inflammatory conditions. Additionally, Ra-Moon is noted for its aphrodisiac effects, traditionally used to enhance libido and sexual health. The bark and leaves are often prepared as a decoction or infusion, promoting healing and relieving discomfort while also supporting sexual vitality.
82. Cannabis or Ganja (Cannabis Sativa) has a long history of use in Jamaica for its medicinal and spiritual properties. It’s used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, alleviate anxiety, and promote relaxation. Additionally, it’s utilized in "roots" tonics and teas for its overall health benefits.
83. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus): Soothes muscle pain, treats respiratory issues, and reduces inflammation.
    
84. Mauby Bark (Colubrina arborescens): Alleviates arthritis, helps with digestion, and lowers blood pressure.
    
85. Hibiscus Flower (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis): Lowers blood pressure, supports heart health, anti-aging properties, treats respiratory issues. (Watch Video)
86. Garlic (Allium sativum): Widely recognized for its powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, garlic supports cardiovascular health, boosts the immune system, and helps in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
87. Comfrey (Symphytum officinale): Known for its ability to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation, comfrey is used topically to treat bruises, sprains, and fractures. It also supports skin regeneration and reduces pain. (Watch Video)
    
88. Black Mint (Mentha x villosa): Improves digestion, eases headaches, and supports respiratory health.
    
89. Sage (Salvia officinalis): Supports heart health, enhances memory, and soothes sore throats.
    
90. Marigold (Tagetes spp.): Known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, it's used to treat skin conditions and support wound healing.
    
91. Never Die (Quick Stick) (Bryophyllum pinnatum): Often used for its wound-healing properties, it also helps trefelat respiratory issues and inflammation.
92. Gungo Peas Leaf (Cajanus cajan): Known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, often used to treat colds and respiratory issues.
93. Strong Back Root (Morinda royoc): Traditionally used to boost male vitality, strengthen the back, and improve overall stamina.
94. Oregano (Jamaican French Thyme/ Chinese Thyme) (Origanum vulgare): A powerful antimicrobial herb that aids digestion, supports respiratory health, and boosts the immune system. (Watch Video).
95. Watercress (Nasturtium officinale): A nutrient-dense leafy green that supports detoxification, boosts immunity, and improves digestion.
96. Jamaican Sorrel (Hibiscus sabdariffa): Known for its tart, cranberry-like flavor, sorrel is used to make a popular holiday drink. It's rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helping to boost the immune system and support heart health.
    
97. Epazote (Chenopodium ambrosioides) - Semi-Contract: Known for its strong, pungent aroma, Epazote is traditionally used to treat intestinal parasites, digestive issues, and respiratory conditions. It’s also commonly used in Jamaican cuisine.
98. Jamaican Rat Ears (Bryophyllum Pinnatum) This herb is used to treat ear infections, respiratory issues, and wounds. The leaves are often crushed and applied topically or taken as tea.
99. Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium): Pennyroyal is traditionally used to relieve colds, coughs, and digestive problems. It also serves as a natural insect repellent and is often used in teas.
100. Cow Foot Leaf (Plectranthus amboinicus):  In Jamaican folklore medicine, this plant is used to treat piles, and painful arthritic conditions etc. also backaches & headaches.
101. African Tulip Tree (Spathodea campanulata): This plant is used in Jamaican herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It's traditionally employed to treat conditions such as skin infections, fever, and digestive issues. The flowers and leaves are often used in infusions and poultices for their therapeutic benefits. In Jamaica, it is also called the donkey pee-pee tree, and is used as a natural eye-drop.
     
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Jamaican Dog Blood Herb

Honorable Mentions

1. Tamarind (Tamarindus indica): Acts as a natural laxative, supports digestive health, and lowers cholesterol.
2. Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia): A relative of the cerasee, the key characteristic of this rare plant is its extremely bitter taste, but it's well-regarded for managing diabetes and promoting overall detoxification (Watch Video).
3. Old Man's Beard (Usnea spp.): Commonly found growing on trees in the Jamaican mountains, Old Man's Beard is a lichen known for its powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It's traditionally used to treat respiratory issues such as colds, coughs, and bronchitis. It can be brewed into a tea or used in tinctures to boost the immune system and fight infections.
4. English Plantain (Plantago major): Widely known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties, English Plantain is used in Jamaican herbal medicine to treat wounds, respiratory issues, and digestive disorders. It's also valued for its ability to soothe skin irritations and reduce inflammation.
5. Duppy Gun (Ruellia tuberosa): This plant is traditionally used in Jamaican herbal medicine for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties. It is commonly employed to treat conditions such as fever, colds, respiratory issues, and to alleviate pain and swelling. The roots and leaves are often used in herbal preparations to promote overall wellness.
   
6. Thistle (Cirsium vulgare): Known for its liver-protective qualities, Thistle is used in Jamaican herbal remedies to detoxify the liver, treat digestive issues, and support overall health. It’s also recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
7. Khus Khus Grass (Vetiveria zizanioides): Also known as Vetiver, this grass is traditionally used in Jamaica for its calming and cooling properties. The roots are often used in herbal remedies to treat fever, headaches, and inflammation. Additionally, it's used in aromatherapy and to create soothing baths to relieve stress and anxiety (Watch Video).
8. Custard Apple (Annona reticulata): In Jamaican herbal medicine, Custard Apple leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They are often employed to treat skin conditions, reduce fever, and support digestive health.
9. Colic Mint / Cullen Mint (Plectranthus amboinicus): Also known as Cuban Oregano, this herb is traditionally used in Jamaica to relieve colic, respiratory issues, and digestive discomfort. It’s also valued for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
   
10. Fur Pon Coat (Elephantopus mollis): In Jamaican herbal medicine, this plant is known for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. It's often used to treat respiratory conditions, skin issues, and to promote overall detoxification. The leaves are sometimes applied topically to soothe rashes and other skin irritations.
11. Almond (Terminalia catappa): In Jamaican herbal medicine, the Almond tree is valued for its various therapeutic properties. The leaves and seeds are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Traditionally, Almond is used to treat conditions such as digestive issues, skin infections, and respiratory problems. The tree’s leaves are often brewed into teas or used in poultices to alleviate symptoms and promote overall wellness.
12. Castor Oil Plant (Ricinus communis): The Castor Oil Plant is well-known in Jamaica for its versatile uses. Castor oil, extracted from the seeds, is used to promote hair growth, relieve joint pain, and improve digestion. The leaves are sometimes used in poultices to reduce inflammation and swelling (Watch Video).
13. Ginger Lily (Hedychium coronarium): Treats respiratory issues, digestive troubles, and muscle pain.
    
14. Physic Nut (Jatropha curcas): The Physic Nut tree is known for its purgative properties and is traditionally used as a strong laxative. In small, controlled doses, it is used to cleanse the digestive system. However, it should be used with caution due to its potent effects.

🎉New! Now you can purchase most of these Jamaican herbs (100% organic and wildcrafted), as well as other authentic Jamaican products here for 15% off using code https://etsy.me/3X5bPso?coupon=WEBSITE15. Click here to visit our store.

There you have it, the top medicinal herbs of Jamaica! From the familiar to the extraordinary, these Jamaican herbs have been part of our health practices for ages.

So whether you're keen on exploring natural remedies or just want to learn more about our island’s rich herbal heritage, these plants are your gateway to nature’s remedies. Embrace these herbal wonders, and let them guide you towards a healthier, more balanced life.

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Watch Video! 60 Medicinal Herbs Of Jamaica

In this special Jamaica 60 feature, we highlighted 60 of Jamaica's most cherished medicinal herbs!

From the popular to the rare finds - see them all in living colour!
You are in for a treat!💃

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