The Health Benefits of Bitter Leaf ( Vernonia Amygdalina )
Bitter Leaf is a vegetable which is popular in Nigeria and is usually known for its delicacies among the Igbos when used to prepare the " Ofe Onugbu". Apart from its kitchen value, Bitter Leaf, botanically known as Vernonia Amygdalina is also known for its medicinal values.Its juices are extracted from the leaves and used to prepare medicines for different ailments.
Extracting the Juices
Traditionally, the juices can be extracted by rubbing the leaves between the palms and squeezing out the juices. The juices is then separated from the leaves with the help of a sieve leaving the filtrate behind. The juice can be stored in a cup.
The bitter taste is usually a turnoff for many people. I still have the indelible memory of the taste after my grandmother forced a full glass of the juice down my throat. But the bitterness can be reduced by adding some drops of orange , pineapple , or mango juices. The dry leaves can also be used but must be properly cleaned.
Benefits of Bitter Leaf
Only a few people are aware of the the potency of bitter leaves in curing many health diseases. The following are the health benefits of bitter leaf:
1. Bitter leaf juices can be used to cure feverish conditions. Taking 3 glasses of the juices daily can speedily relieve the fever.
2. Bitter leaf juices can be used to increase breast milk in nursing mothers. A few glasses of the powerful juice can help increase the production of breast milk.
3. Bitter leaf juices can be used to contract the uterus after childbirth. But pregnant women should avoid the intake of the juices as the contraction of the uterus could pose serious problem during the delivery. Too much contraction of the uterus can also lead to miscarriages
4. Bitter leaf juices also nourishes the skin. The powerful juices is rich in the essential vitamins that gives the skin a beautiful tone. Take a few glasses daily and you will begin to expect the cosmetic effects of the juices.
5. The juices is also potent in curing slight stomach ailments. This is the most common use of bitter leaf.
6. The juices can be used to detoxify the body systems. A few glasses daily can help wash off all the body toxins which will be passed out as urine. .
7. Finally, bitter leaf juices increases the body metabolism and thus aides digestion
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