BROWN rice, which is also known as whole rice, is a staple that provides instant energy. It is good for bowel movements and balancing the blood sugar level.

Of its three components, bran , germ and endosperm, the latter is the least important. What the majority of Jamaicans eat as rice is the endosperm and this is not nutritionally viable, in the long run, for even though the endosperm generates protein, it does not supply the critical minerals and vitamins that the body needs in order to survive.

The germ of rice contains Vitamin E, while the bran carries over 80 per cent of minerals and Vitamin D. Essential fats, antioxidants and many trace and macro-nutrients that are found in beans, fruits and vegetables such as carrots are in whole rice. The anti-oxidant value of whole rice is much higher than the polished rice.

For this reason it is good to eat to prevent cell damage. This prevents the body from being invaded by heart disease, cholesterol imbalances, high blood pressure, obesity and Type 2 diabetes. It is highly claimed nowadays that many formulated cereals contain added fibre from whole grains like, rice, bran, wheat bran etc. with the aim of eating healthy and keeping the body weight down and better absorption and elimination and promoting a better metabolic rate. Studies have shown that the consumption of whole rice daily prevents colon cancer and contributes to the health of the prostate. Three servings daily also eliminate the risk of stroke. Given the tremendous benefits of this crop, why can’t the ministries of agriculture and health collaborate to start a whole rice programme for Jamaica?

There are so many acres of land in St Elizabeth, Clarendon, Westmoreland and St Catherine which could serve the purpose. I’ve seen them lying idle while creeping through the craters that serve for roads in places like Ferris, Whitehouse and Belmont in Westmoreland. There are old rice mills in Montego Bay’s freeport and Westmoreland that could be resuscitated.

American business tycoon, Bill Gates, believes in whole rice and has invested billions in the growing of this crop in Bangladesh. He’s one of the major sponsors of the green revolution. It’s really time for Jamaica to wake up to the benefits that the revival of rice holds in store for us.

Buckston Harrison is well known for his work as a herbalist, especially in western Jamaica. He resides in Sheffield, Westmoreland.

Huber’s Tofu and Pear Salad

Today’s recipe is good as an appetiser or main course. You should try it while avocados are still in season.

Ingredients

*1/4 lb tofu

*1 large avocado

* 1 onion

* 2 tomatoes

*3 cloves garlic

* 1 sweet pepper

* 1/4 medium cabbage

* 1 carrot

* 1 small beetroot

* 1 teaspoon each of pimento powder, celery powder and paprika

* 2 sprigs fennel

* 2 leaves lettuce

* 2 leaves of spinach

* 4 leaves French thyme

* a sprinkling of penny royal and marjoram

* 1 lemon

Method

* Cream the tofu

* Shred the beetroot and carrot and add to tofu

* Finely chop cabbage, onion, garlic, tomato and sweet pepper

* Sprinkle dry seasonings and add lemon juice

* Finely dice greens and add

* Cube avocado and add to salad

* Mix gently and serve immediately

Thomas ‘Bongo Tommy’ Huber is a Swiss national who migrated to Westmoreland’s Retrieve District 10 years ago. He is a naturalist who lives off the land and is deeply involved in an ongoing effort to create Jamaica’s next generation of exotic fruit trees.

From the mailbox

Good Day Buckston,

I am a regular reader of your articles. Is there anything you could recommend for restoring hair loss due to female pattern balding or generally for promoting hair growth?

C Wright

Dear C Wright

Drink Rosemary tea, horsetail grass tea and increase your intake of Vitamin D and soak your hair in aloe vera juice.

Buckston

Dear Mr Buckston

I have been diagnosed by my dermatologist with Scarring Alopecia. They have recommended steroid injections to re-activate the follicles to grow hair again. I don’t want to go that route. Is there any- thing that you could recommended that may alleviate this problem naturally?

Reader

Dear Reader

I’d have to see you before commenting because sometimes we have a special application that we use to scrub individuals with your condition.

Buckston

Buckston and Huber’s Alternative is not intended as a substitute for the diagnosis, cure, prevention or treatment of disease. You may send your questions and comments to thealternative@jamaicaobserver.com.