Caribbean “bush medicine” is nothing if not an accommodating art.  It’s one of those things which are not too resistant to change. It’s not one of those things which shun embracing something that is not “bush” or completely abhors using some store-bought product for the greater good.  Indeed, as I sit here, I can recall the many “mix-ups” of bush with bush or bush with some store/ pharmacy bought item to produce an effective remedy for some cold, indigestion or other ailment. And, over the next few weeks, A Good Dose will be paying tribute to these very “mix-ups” occurring in bush medicine.

Cod Liver Oil- ‘Bud suck’ mix up:

This “mix-up” was generally administered whenever a person got the first sign(s) that a cold was about to hit or during the first day to last day of a bout with the flu.  It involved a half tablespoon of cod liver oil (yes, that’s really oil from the liver of cod fish), almost equal measurement of liquid from a spiky-head plant I can only remember as “bud suck”.  And, the tiniest bit of salt.

To make this mix-up, folks would carefully pour half tablespoon of cod liver oil (usually Seven Seas Cod Liver Oil) into a tablespoon.

7 Seas Cod Liver Oil Liquid - 15 Oz

Then they’d take a green bud suck leaf which they’d just washed and squeeze it over the spoon.

From the wet green leaf would come a nice green liquid. They’d squeeze until the spoon was almost filled with bud-suck juice and cod liver oil.

Then, they might or might not add salt (maybe, that was for taste?) before downing the mixture in one gulp.

Old people swore by this mixture. And, young people didn’t mind too much- once they got past the fishy taste and understood that there were worst things which could be administered to them.  As someone who suffered frequent doses throughout her life, I will side with those who claim that this “mix-up” does do some good during a cold.  I’ve always imagined myself at least half-way ‘healed’ after consistent dosages during a cold. And, I didn’t mind the fishy taste!

If anyone knows any of the names of this plant, please drop me a line!

Disclaimer:

The contents of this page are meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. Statements published here ought not to be taken as expert medical advice designed to treat/cure any diseases or health related conditions. Please talk to your doctor or any qualified healthcare professional if you need medical advice (Believe me, WE at RE:BELE would!)