Chayote

 Chayote is a tropical vine, belonging to the plant family Cucurbitaceae and is only genus which contains only one seed. The leaves of the plant are hairy, broad and triangular. The flowers are yellowish, five petaled and located in the axils. The fruit is light green and pear- shaped but somewhat wrinkled. It grows from the perennial tuberous root or from seeds. The fruit is used as a vegetable.

MEDICINAL USE:

* Hypertension or high blood pressure.
* Helps in digestion.
* Helps in bowel movement.
* Soothes in skin rashes.
* Helps in the discharge of pus.

HOW TO USE:

* Consumption of the cooked fruit is recommended in case of hypertension.
* The leaves are used in stews as a digestive.
* The edible fruit is a mild laxative.
* The raw pulp of the fruit soothes skin rashes when applied directly over the affected part.
* A poultice of the roasted leaves may be applied over boils to assist in the early discharge of pus.

PARTS USED:

The leaves and the fruit.



DOSE:

Normal Dosage For:

Adults: 4 or 5 cups a day.
Aged 6 to 9 years: 2 cups a day
Aged 2 to 5 years: 1 cup a day
1 to 2 years: 1/2 cup a day
Below 1 year: 1/4 or less cup a day

A Useful Table for Quick Measurements:
1 tbsp = 5 grams (green herb)
1 dessertspoon = 2 grams (dry herb)
1 teaspoon = 25 drops
1 cup = 16 tbsp


1 litre = 7 or 8 cups