As the euphoria surrounding Crop-Over expands and explodes, let us pause to reflect on silent doctors and the Foreday Morning Jam in Barbados.
These two entities share a similar modus operandi. They both spring from darkness into morning light with the spirit of merriment. Mud is also an integral part of the whole.
Notice how some costumed revellers and most silent doctors glorify in mud. Mud is healing and sustains life. You cannot separate silent doctors from Barbadian culture.
On a different note, I received an amazing telephone call with a specific directive.
The caller said, “I am calling for my uncle; he said to call you for him and tell you to write about Poor-man-pork – that is all he said and it made no sense to me.”
I replied, “It makes sense to me, don’t worry.”
Subsequently, I spoke to (Nation newspaper vendor) B. Greenidge of The Crane, St Philip, and the rest is history.
Poor-man-pork or broad-leaf thyme is a phenom. However, it has been rejected by people and stigmatized – it is said that it “cuts the speed of men”. This is not true. Instead, I call it “a saviour in disguise”.
Considerable research has been done on this plant, given the volume of publications. This research is documented in numerous journals, including the Oxford Journals and the African Journal Of Infectious Diseases.
In the International Journal of Chemical Science a study conducted by four researchers revealed that poor-man-pork “showed a wide spectrum of antibacterial activity against all human pathogenic bacteria [tested]”.
Furthermore, they posit that “this result provides a scientific basis for the centuries-old usage of this plant as a medicinal plant”.
An article presented by Dr Estela C. Tano revealed that broad-leaf thyme may be used to treat or prevent over 55 health challenges.
These include AIDS, angina, asthma, atherosclerosis, bladder infections, bloating, cataracts, cancer, depression, congestive heart failure, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, flatulence, glaucoma, heart disease (severe), high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, insomnia, liver disease, obesity, psoriasis, painful urination and menstruation, schizophrenia, stroke and thrombosis.
It can also treat hiccups, fatigue, coughs, earache, eczema, colic, boils, swelling, sore throat, nasal congestion and infections. It also contains some vitamins and minerals.
Jesus saith unto him, “Feed my sheep,” – John 21:17. Feeding involves knowledge about silent doctors.
I herald broad leaf thyme as a saviour and a green powerhouse as I continue to ask the Creator for a spirit of wisdom.
• Annette Maynard-Watson, a teacher and herbal educator, may be contacted at silentdoctors @gmail.com or call 250-6450.
disclaimer: It is not our intention to prescribe or make specific health claims for any products. Any attempt to diagnose and treat real illness should come under the direction of your health care professional.