Not only the seeds, melinjo leaves can also be processed into food and even herbal medicine. In addition, the benefits of melinjo leaves for health are very diverse. This is thanks to the content of nutrients and antioxidants in it.
In Indonesia, melinjo leaves are often used in a variety of foods, such as tamarind vegetables, clear vegetables, and fresh vegetables. Besides being easy to find and cheap, melinjo leaves can also be consumed as a healthy food option.
Melinjo leaves are rich in antioxidants and various nutrients, such as:
- Vitamin A
- Fiber
- Iron
- Phosphor
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Zinc
Benefits of Melinjo Leaves for Body Health
Melinjo leaves are consumed as food or herbal drinks (herbs) can provide various benefits for the health of the body. Following are some of the benefits:
1. Lowering uric acid levels
Unlike the seeds, which can cause high uric acid levels, the seed coat and leaves of melinjo are actually good for lowering uric acid. Some research shows that consumption of melinjo leaves seems to reduce uric acid levels in the blood. However, the benefits of melinjo leaves as a gout drug still need to be studied further.
2. Manage blood sugar levels
High and uncontrolled blood sugar over time can trigger insulin resistance. If left untreated, this condition can develop into diabetes.
Several studies in the laboratory state that melinjo leaf extract can control blood sugar levels and increase the effectiveness of the performance of the insulin hormone. The results of this study indicate that melinjo leaves have potential as herbal medicine to control blood sugar.
However, don't just use melinjo leaves. You also need to limit foods high in sugar, so that blood sugar levels are more easily controlled.
3. Maintain ideal body weight
Melinjo leaves contain a lot of fiber, so they can make you feel full longer. In addition, several studies also mention that melinjo leaves can reduce bad cholesterol, increase metabolism, and maintain ideal body weight.
Unfortunately, the benefits of this one melinjo have not been widely studied in humans. Therefore, further research is still needed.
To lose weight and keep it ideal, you are advised to exercise regularly and limit the consumption of foods high in calories, fat, and sugar.
4. Increase endurance
Maintaining health and endurance, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic, is very important. You can strengthen your immune system by exercising regularly, following a healthy diet, reducing stress, and taking certain supplements or herbal products, such as melinjo leaves.
Studies say that melinjo leaves contain a variety of antioxidants and minerals that are good for maintaining the immune system, such as iron, zinc, and magnesium. Therefore, you can add melinjo leaves to your daily healthy diet to keep your body fit and strong.
5. Fight free radicals
As is well known, antioxidants are good for warding off the body from free radicals that can cause disease. Melinjo leaves are known to contain antioxidants in them, so they can maintain a healthy body and counteract the effects of free radicals.
Some studies also mention that the antioxidant content in melinjo leaves also appears to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Unfortunately, the various benefits of melinjo that have been mentioned above are only based on small-scale research. Further research is still needed to evaluate the effectiveness of the benefits of melinjo leaves for health and their side effects.
Because it is one of the healthy foods, you can add melinjo leaves to your daily diet. However, to keep the body healthy, don't just rely on melinjo leaves.
You still need to live a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced nutritious diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress, and getting enough rest.
If you experience certain complaints after consuming melinjo leaves, such as stomach pain, diarrhea, or nausea and vomiting, consult a doctor for treatment.