ORIGIN AND CULTIVATION
The bamboos are giant grasses, and there are about 500 species, They are found in China and Japan, and extending across Asia, and also in Africa and South America. Normally, bamboos grow in or near the tropics , but some of the hardier types can be cultivated in temperate regions.
PLANT DESCRIPTION
Some bamboos can grow to a height of 40m (130R), with a daily growth of 40cm (1in). The stem is hollow and jointed, and there is a strong partition at each joint. Some bamboos flower every year ; others, at intervals of 30 or 60 years. The bamboo found in herbal medicine is described as "Bambusa arundinacea"
CULINARY AND NUTRITIONAL VALUE
The young bamboo shoots are a popular food item in eastern Asia and in countries where Chinese cuisine is found. They are often canned. After harvesting, the shoots are boiled for about half an hour, to remove bitterness (cyanogenic glycosides) but to retain their crispness. The shoots contain about 3% protein. little fat, and about 5% carbohydrate, but only 4 mg per 100 g vitamin C. In some parts of the world. the seed (grain) has been used as food. Bamboos have endless uses. e.g. building , baskets. Popes, and musical instruments.
CLAIMS AND FOLKLORE
In Ayurvedic (ancient Indian) medicine, the milky deposit or gum on the nodes of the stem was used as a cooling remedy for the lungs, and to treat a number of conditions, eg. feverish colds and asthma. The claims made at present do not seem to be the same as In Ayurvedic medicine. Because it is rich in silica, It has been suggested that the gum can help bone and Joint disorders, and that it may prevent bone loss after menopause.
EVIDENCE
There seems to be no experimental evidence to support the above claims. But in India we see the highest percentage of these being used for home construction.
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