Philippine Gabi

Colocasia esculenta

Evidence: TFamily: Araceae

Pregnancy:SafeNursing:SafeChildren:Safe

Philippine hilot poultice for boils, insect stings, and inflammation; cooked root is a staple food; raw plant contains calcium oxalate.

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Safety Quick Reference

Pregnancysafe

Breastfeedingsafe

Pediatricsafe

Contraindications: Kidney stones (raw form has oxalate); handle with care due to calcium oxalate.

Interactions: insufficient_data

Drug & Medication Interactions

If you take any medications, review these interactions carefully.

Known Interactions

insufficient_data

Contraindications

Kidney stones (raw form has oxalate); handle with care due to calcium oxalate.

Surgery Warning

insufficient_data

Check Your Medications Against This Herb

Side Effects

Contact dermatitis from raw plant; throat irritation.

How to Prepare Philippine Gabi

Poultice (Topical Compress)Easy · 10-20 minutes

Equipment

Fresh or dried herbs, Clean cloth or gauze, Hot water, Bowl

Instructions

1FOR FRESH HERBS: Chop or mash fresh plant material. Apply directly to the skin, cover with a clean cloth.
2FOR DRIED HERBS: Mix dried, powdered herb with enough hot water to form a thick paste.
3Spread the paste onto a clean cloth or gauze, about 1/4 inch thick.
4Apply the herb side against the skin. Cover with another clean cloth to hold in place.
5Leave on for 20-30 minutes, or until cooled. Reapply as needed.
6For a warm poultice, wrap a hot water bottle or warm towel over the cloth.

Tips

• Plantain leaf poultice is a classic first-aid remedy for insect bites — just chew a fresh leaf and apply.
• Comfrey leaf poultice is traditional for sprains and bruises (external only, intact skin only).
• Activated charcoal mixed with ground flaxseed makes a drawing poultice.

FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY. Do not apply to open wounds unless specifically indicated. Discontinue if skin irritation occurs. Some herbs (Arnica, Comfrey) should never be used on broken skin.

Make fresh each time. Do not store prepared poultices.

Decoction (Roots, Bark & Seeds)Easy · 25-45 minutes

Equipment

Pot with lid (non-aluminum), Strainer, Measuring spoon, Stove

Instructions

1Place 1 tablespoon of dried root, bark, or seeds per 12 oz of cold water in a pot.
2Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer.
3Cover and simmer for 20-40 minutes. Harder roots (like Astragalus) may need up to 45 minutes.
4The liquid should reduce by about one-third.
5Strain through a fine mesh strainer, pressing the herbs to extract all liquid.
6Drink 1-3 cups daily. Can be combined with honey or blended with an infusion.

Tips

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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