HAWAI‘I-GROWN MEDICINAL WONDER PLANT: AN IN-DEPTH STUDY OF UKON (PART 3)
In this book, “Seimei no Hiyaku, Haru Okon no Kiseki (Life’s Secret Medicine — the Miracle of Haru Ukon),” Hisashi Ozaki wrote, “Ukon soaks up” the energy of the sun’s rays, clean air and fertile soil, and becomes a wonderful medium which transmits this energy to the human body.” By this definition, perhaps no other medicinal plant is as perfect for Hawai’i as ukon.
This second part of our article describes the past efforts of Honbushin International Center’s Mamoru Yamazaki to grow the wonder plant ukon (turmeric), as well as share culinary and medicinal practices that utilize it. Ukon’s homemade medicine and healthy foods will help you regain your energy.
HAWAI‘I-GROWN UKON
In April and May, Mr. Yamazaki’s fields are covered with pink blossoms. Around November, the large leaves begin to wilt. In January, the bulbs are harvested. At Honbushin, Mr. Yamazaki first tried aki ukon, but quickly switched over to haru ukon. The harvested ukon is dried, ground, and stored in powder form. When he first began, Mr. Yamazaki sent the powder to Japan to be made into tablets which he sold in Japan under the name “Top Upia,” then imported the tablets back into Hawai‘i. But because of rising costs, he now does everything in locally.
The name Honbushin may not be familiar to many people. Some might recognize it as the place in Mililani where fresh-picked Japanese radishes and other vegetables are sold. Mr. Yamazaki’s deep, dark tan did not come from the golf course — his is the complexion of a farmer who has spent many years working his land.
In his book, Mr. Ozaki wrote, “Ukon soaks up the energy of the sun’s rays, clean air and fertile soil, and becomes a wonderful medium which transmits this energy to the human body.” By this definition, perhaps no other medicinal plant is as perfect for Hawai‘i as ukon.
“Our hope is to make people healthy,” said Mr. Yamazaki, with honest sincerity.
UKON TOOTHPASTE
Tooth or gum pain? Consider trying ukon toothpaste to take advantage of ukon’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. After brushing your teeth with your regular toothpaste, place some ukon powder on your toothbrush and massage your teeth and gum. Rinse.
(Translated by Roy Mashima)
(The information provided should not be construed as medical advice or instruction. Consult your physician before attempting any new program. Readers who fail to consult appropriate health authorities assume the risk of developing serious medical conditions.)
