Let's Herb Walk! Ewé Eyin Olobe
Share
E jẹ Ka Ewé Rin!
Let's Herb Walk!
There is power and meaning in the word from an Afrikan perspective, and the Yorùbá people display this on all levels. In the vibrant tapestry of Yorùbá naming patterns, the names “ewé ẹyinlolobéṣó,” “ewé aríẹyingbéọmọpọ̀n,” and “ewé f’ẹ́yintiṣ’ówó” not only echo the poetic rhythms of the Yorùbá language, but they also carry profound meanings that merge the realms of nature, health, and spirituality.
Ewé Eyin Olobe, (known by its Latin name Phyllanthus Amarus) is also known by various other names such as gale of the wind, carry me seed, seed on the leaf, pick-a-back and Indian gooseberry. It is a deciduous herb celebrated in Yorùbá culture for its versatile applications. As a “stone breaker” (kidney stone dissolver), it has proven efficacy against kidney stones, gall bladder issues, urinary tract infections, hepatitis, diabetes, hypertension, malaria, and cancer. It also treats chronic liver disease.
In relation to the "stone breaker" nickname, it is interesting growing up in the southern united snakes of Amerikkka that I would often see this herb bursting up between cracks in the cement; and example of its tenacity and a huge hint at how this herb can be used spiritually.
Looking into the Yorùbá naming pattern in relation to this powerful herb, we unveil rich symbolism. “Ewé ẹyinlolobéṣó,” literally translating to “the plant that sees the end of the wicked one,” suggests a deep connection between the plant and its ability to combat ailments both physically and spiritually.
“Ewé aríẹyingbéọmọpọ̀n,” evoking the imagery of a mother carrying her child on her back, refers to the nurturing qualities of the plant, aptly used for treating back pain, menstrual disorders, and issues related to the liver and heart. Meanwhile, “ewé f’ẹ́yintiṣ’ówó” is an image of leaves resting on money, symbolizing prosperity through the health and well-being of its children. This linguistic mastery reveals an esoteric conundrum, revealing the deep thought in relation to our original, pre-abrahamic, culture. It sheds light on the cosmology of nature’s secrets, showcasing the plant’s diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and anti-cancer properties.
For optimal use, the recommended dosage ranges from 3-6 grams of dried herb per day, depending on the condition being treated. You can also make a tea of this powerful herb. A unique Yorùbá practice involves chewing the fresh leaves for a brief moment, which often results in the individual feeling an immediate relief.
The linguistic beauty, the thought behind expressing the properties of this and many other herbs, and the worldview of the Yorùbá in general shows us that we have always and will always have what we need to be a whole people without having to feel like we need foreign cultures and religions to validate us.
Eyin Olobe helps regulate digestion, body temperature, and hormonal balance. When in balance, eyin olobe is said to bring brain clarity, charisma, courage, spiritual clarity, and overstanding. However, an excess of this powerful ewé can cause imbalances such as anger, jealousy, irritated skin, and difficulty sleeping.
Finally, this herb is found in Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana and Texas among other U.S. locales. Take a walk around to see if you can spot this valuable herb to utilize.