Papaya - a world class meat tenderizer, natural digestive aid, prevents ulcers, and also a soft contact lense cleaner.Allspice - Also known as Pimento, Pimenta, Jamaican Pepper, Clove Pepper
The Caribbean Cure
Family: Myrtaceae; (includes myrtle)
Genus and species: Pimenta Officinalis P. Dioice
Also known as: Pimento, Pimenta, Jamaican Pepper, Clove Pepper
Parts used: Mature, but unripe, green berries
Many people know the Caribbean as a place to find sunshine, sailboats, and calypso music amidst a warm tropical breeze. But few know the Caribbean as a place to find folk healing at its finest.
Folk healing has been alive in the Caribbean for centuries.
Some of its medicinal magic is found in the spice that’s native to the islands but known universally to just about any cook allspice.
Allspice, which combines the flavors of cinnamon, pepper, juniper, and clove, is used as a digestive aid, pain reliever, and anesthetic. Jamaicans drink hot allspice tea for colds, menstrual cramps, and upset stomach. Costa Ricans use it to treat indigestion, flatulence, and diabetes. Cubans consider it a refreshing tonic. And Guatemalans apply crushed allspice berries externally to treat bruises and joint and muscle pains.