Tawa Tawa or Gatas Gatas
Tawa Tawa (Gatas Gatas): A Powerful Herbal Remedy for Health
Tawa Tawa, also known as Gatas Gatas, is a remarkable herb that has been used for centuries in various traditional medicines across tropical regions. This versatile plant is particularly known for its medicinal benefits in treating respiratory issues and conditions like fever, asthma, and even Dengue fever. Though it goes by different names, it’s the same plant with the same powerful healing properties.
What is Tawa Tawa (Gatas Gatas)?
Tawa Tawa (Euphorbia pilulifera) is a wild herb that thrives in tropical climates. It is commonly referred to as Gatas Gatas in the Philippines, with other local names like Botonís, Pansi-pansi, and Bobi. The plant is typically a small, hairy herb that grows to about 40 cm in height and bears clusters of small greenish flowers.
Health Benefits of Tawa Tawa (Gatas Gatas)
Tawa Tawa, or Gatas Gatas, is most famous for its ability to help alleviate fever, particularly Dengue Fever, a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes. The plant’s natural compounds are believed to help lower body temperature and provide relief from other symptoms associated with fever. It is also commonly used to treat respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema due to its ability to relax the respiratory muscles and ease breathing.
How to Prepare Tawa Tawa Tea
Here’s a simple recipe to prepare Tawa Tawa for fever relief:
- Harvest Fresh Tawa Tawa Leaves: Pick about a dozen fresh leaves, ensuring they are free of brown spots.
- Clean the Leaves: Rinse them thoroughly in water.
- Pound the Leaves: Crush the leaves using a mortar and pestle to release their juice.
- Prepare the Tea: Boil 10 oz. of water and pour it into the crushed leaves. Allow it to cool, then strain the mixture into a glass.
- Drink the Tea: Consume one glass every four hours. You should see a reduction in fever within a couple of hours.
This herbal remedy is not only helpful for fever but can also support people with chronic respiratory conditions.
Where Can You Find Tawa Tawa?
Tawa Tawa grows abundantly in tropical areas and can often be found in waste places, grasslands, and even urban environments. It grows like a weed. It is easily spotted in the Philippines, but it also grows in other tropical regions like Florida, where it can be seen thriving in the wild.
Additional Uses of Tawa Tawa
In addition to treating fever and respiratory issues, Tawa Tawa has several other medicinal uses:
- Skin Health: It can be used to treat minor skin wounds and oral ulcers, thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Digestive Issues: Some people use Tawa Tawa to alleviate symptoms of dysentery and diarrhea.
- Breastfeeding Aid: In some regions, it is used to increase milk supply in nursing mothers.
The Science Behind Tawa Tawa (Gatas Gatas)
The medicinal properties of Tawa Tawa are attributed to its chemical components. Research has identified substances like gallic acid and quercetin within the plant, which may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. While scientific studies are still ongoing to fully understand its therapeutic potential, traditional use and anecdotal evidence strongly support its healing properties.
Tawa Tawa (Gatas Gatas) is a powerful herb with a wide range of medicinal uses. From reducing fever to aiding with respiratory conditions and skin health, this herb is a valuable tool in traditional healing. Whether you’re dealing with Dengue Fever, asthma, or simply need a natural remedy to support your health, Tawa Tawa can be a beneficial addition to your wellness routine.
If you live in a tropical region or have access to fresh Tawa Tawa plants, it’s worth growing them in your garden to enjoy their many health benefits. Just remember to consult with a healthcare provider before using any new herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications.