By Oluwatoyin Odunlade
Bitter leaf is a shrub that grows in sub-Saharan Africa, typically to a height of up to 23 feet when fully grown. The shrub is named ” bitter leaf” for its bitter tasting but nutrient-rich leaves, which contains of alkaloids, saponins, tannins and glycosides. The leaves can be added to soups or crumbled into stews (eg efo riro). It is also used as an alternative to hops in the production of beer. To minimise the bitter taste, the leaves are washed and dried first which make it lose the essential health benefits needed for the body *Benefits*
Contains lots of vitamins and minerals
According to a research article, bitter leaf are ‘exceptionally rich’ in proteins, vitamin c, carotene, iron, potassium,zinc, copper, folic acid and other mineral elements.
Prevents heart attacks
Bitter leaf is a rich source of linoleic,linolenic acid and polyunsaturated fatty acids. All of these polyunsaturated fatty acids guides against cardiovascular disease
Helps reduce blood pressure.
Boosts your chances of getting pregnant
According to a Nutritionist, bitter leaf boosts fertility and has the ability to stimulate the reproductive system, ‘balance hormones and help the ovary to release healthy Eggs
Reduces fever
Better leaf contain antiseptic which helps in calm fever
‘The content of andrographolide lactones, glucosides, diterpene, and flavonoids serve to reduce fever.