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As the rainforest species disappear, so do many possible cures for life-threatening diseases. Currently 121 prescription drugs sold worldwide come from plant-derived sources. While 25% of Western pharmaceuticals are derived from rainforest ingredients, less than 1% of these tropical trees and plants have been tested by scientists.

The U.S. National Cancer Institute has identified 3000 plants that are active against cancer cells. 70% of these found in the rainforest. 25% of the active ingredients in today’s cancer fighting drugs come from organisms in the rainforest

Rainforests currently provide sources for one-fourth of today’s medicines, and 70% of the plants found to have anticancer properties are found only in the rainforest. The rainforest and its immense undiscovered biodiversity hold the key to unlocking tomorrow’s cures for devastating diseases. How many cures for devastating disease have we all ready lost?

Aromatic smells from the rainforest Nutmeg (Indonesia)

Made from the seed, used in small amounts for the prevention of flatulence. Nutmeg is also used for flavouring food.

Vanilla (Central America)

Made from the pod which is sweated and dried for 5-6 months.

Used for flavouring food.

Clove (Zanzibar)

In a liquid form, clove is used to relieve stomach upsets, externally it is used as an anaesthetic and to flavour tooth pastes, sweets and cakes.

Ginger (many areas)

Fresh or dried ginger is used to relieve stomach upsets and flavour food. Ginger comes from the stem or rhizome (a specialised root) and can be bought locally.

Cinnamon (Sri Lanka)

Made from rolled dried bark. The spice is used widely in cooking. The oil is antiseptic and is also used for the relief of flatulence and nausea.