African leaves may still sound foreign to some people. However, this plant has recently begun to be widely developed in Indonesia because it is believed to have various benefits for the health of the body.
As the name implies, a plant that has a Latin name Vernonia amygdalina it really comes from Africa. Its bitter taste makes African leaves also known as bitter leaf.
On the continent of origin, African leaves are often used as traditional medicine or herbal medicine to treat various health problems, ranging from malaria, intestinal worms, bacterial infections, liver and kidney disease, diabetes, to digestive disorders, such as nausea and diarrhea. African leaves themselves can be consumed directly, cooked, or boiled, then drink the boiled water.
Nutritional Content of African Leaves
African leaves contain a variety of nutrients that are good for the health of the body. The following are some kinds of nutrients found in African leaves:
- Protein
- Fiber
- Complex carbohydrates
- Vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E
- Minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, selenium, iron, and zinc
In addition, this green leafy plant also contains many flavonoid antioxidants.
Some of the Benefits of African Leaves for Health
Thanks to the nutritional content, antioxidants, and various substances in it, African leaves have various benefits for the health of the body, including:
1. Lowering blood sugar
Various studies have shown that African leaves are useful in lowering blood sugar levels and keeping them stable. This herbal plant can also maintain the function of the pancreas in producing insulin and maintain the effectiveness of the hormone's performance.
These effects make African leaves good for preventing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
2. Inhibit the growth of cancer cells
A study in the laboratory showed that African leaf extract can eradicate and inhibit the growth of cancer cells, such as breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and blood cancer.
Not only that, African leaves are also said to increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy in cancer treatment. However, the benefits of this one African leaf still need to be studied further.
You are still advised to consult a doctor if you want to use herbal products, including African leaves, if you are undergoing chemotherapy treatment.
3. Eradicate disease-causing bacteria
African leaves are known to contain chemicals that have antibacterial properties. African leaf extract can even kill and prevent the growth of various types of germs that often cause infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas, and Escherichia coli.
However, the effectiveness of the benefits of this one African leaf still needs to be studied further, especially if it is used as an infection treatment.
4. Treating malaria
On the continent of origin, African leaves have been used for a long time as a traditional medicine for the treatment of malaria. Several studies have also shown that African leaf extract can indeed eradicate parasites Plasmodium cause of malaria.
5. Overcoming intestinal worms
Apart from parasites Plasmodium, African leaves are also known to be useful in killing other types of parasites, namely worms. Several studies have shown that African leaf extract appears to be able to eradicate the eggs and larvae of worms that can attack the digestive tract, such as roundworms and hookworms.
However, you still need to consult a doctor first, if you want to use African leaves as an anthelmintic.
6. Maintain heart health
African leaves are also claimed to be beneficial in maintaining liver health and function. This benefit is thought to be due to the content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances contained in it.
7. Control blood pressure
African leaves contain high levels of antioxidants and potassium minerals. Both substances are known to play a role in lowering blood pressure and keeping it stable. Therefore, African leaves are said to be good for consumption to control blood pressure.
In addition to the various benefits above, African leaves are also believed to maintain health and nerve and brain function. Not only that, African leaves are also good for preventing anemia and overcoming inflammation.
Unfortunately, the various claims for the benefits of African leaves above are only known based on small research in the laboratory. Until now, there has been no research that confirms the effectiveness and safety of the benefits of African leaves as a disease treatment.
Therefore, you should consult a doctor first if you want to use African leaves as an herbal treatment, especially if you have certain diseases or are taking certain medicines.