Returning to work at Christ Church Foundation School last week was a rewarding and happy experience. I am a form teacher and my class 3A2 is numero uno! My other classes are all filled with students who are motivated and ready to excel. In essence, I was a busy teacher last week.
However, my crowning moment as a Royal Fidelity National Distinguished Teacher occurred after one of my introductory lessons in social studies. After that particular lesson, the students came to my desk and with pleasant smiles on their faces said: “Ma’am, this was the best lesson we had for the week.”
After that lesson I walked with a sense of satisfaction and pride to the staff room and told a colleague: “You know you are being effective in the classroom when students show such appreciation.” We should always do our best in the classroom if we want to ensure that “no student is left behind”.
This week I will also ensure that none of the readers of this column are left behind by ensuring that they are educated about silent doctor grapes.
Vitis Vinifera is the scientific name for the popular imported grapes which are sold by most fruit vendors. These grapes are now being cultivated in Barbados with much success. Most people are often in amazement and remark: “Dem grapes does grow hey!” I bought two plants from the National Conservation Commission in St Andrew.
Vitis Vinifera has many health benefits. The sap, stem, root, leaves and fruit are used for healing. In some cultures grapes are used to treat many health challenges, including diabetes, anaemia, snake bites, cough, hoarseness, smallpox, varicose veins, mouth ulcers, vaginal discharge, herpes, diarrhoea, nausea, scalp problems and challenges of the liver, skin, eye and gastro-intestinal tract.
The University of Maryland Medical Centre websites revealed that researchers continue to gather data to ascertain if grape seed extracts can successfully treat some health challenges. Included on the list are chronic venous insufficiency, high cholesterol, Alzheimer’s, cancer, edema and high blood pressure. The extracts can also protect against oxidative rancidity and bacterial pathogens, improve vision and protect collagen and elastin in the skin.
I discovered during my research process that literature revealed that long ago in Europe, a six-week diet on nothing but grapes was used to treat cancer.
Finally, like the grape vine, we must continue to be survivors of any adversities that we encounter. Remember the grape is an old plant mentioned in the Bible and in Egyptian history. Plant and nurture a grape vine and watch as it teaches many lessons.
• Annette Maynard-Watson is a teacher and herbal educator.
DISCLAIMER: It is not our intention to prescribe or make specific claims for any products. Any attempts to diagnose or treat real illness should come under the direccton of your health care provider.
