Jamaican Chew Stick, formally known as Gouania Lupuloides, is a plant that belongs to the Rhamnaceae family. It is normally found in Jamaica’s woodlands and is commonly used by locals, primarily Rastafarians, as a natural way to clean the teeth . It is climbing plant of the buckthorn family, the twigs or bark of which are chewed to clean the teeth.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra) is a sweet herb that possesses significant anti-inflammatory properties. Homeopathic use of licorice for gastric irritation dates back to the first century. Today, herbal preparations are used to treat stomach and intestinal ulcers, lower acid levels and coat the stomach wall with a protective gel. Rarely used alone, it is a common component of many herbal teas as mild laxative, a diuretic, and for flatulence. It has also been known to relieve rheumatism and arthritis, regulate low blood sugar, and is effective for Addison’s disease. The root extract produces mild estrogenic effects, and it has proven useful in treating symptoms of menopause, regulating menstruation, and relieving menstrual cramps.
Chinese Licorice root, or Glycyrrhiza, is one of the greatest herbs known to mankind. Licorice root builds energy and is an excellent digestive tonic. It is the most broad spectrum natural detoxifying agent known, ridding the body of over 1200 known toxins without any distressful side-effects. It also helps regulate the blood sugar level, helping counteract hypoglycemia, a very common imbalance. Licorice is a perennial herb native to southern Europe, Asia and the Mediterranean. It is extensively cultivated in Russia, Spain, Iran and India. It is one of the most popular and widely consumed herbs in the world.
Chew sticks have also been found as a safe and effective way to help Quit Smoking. Natives of the West Indies like to chew on licorice sticks or on sugar cane stalks. Inspired by this, one doctor recommended that his patients chew licorice sticks to break the smoking habit. The idea has apparently been very successful. Ex-smokers like having something to chew on or hold in their mouths. The licorice stick is a safe substitute for a cigarette
