By Chisom Ibemere
Garden egg leaf is popular in the Eastern and South Western parts of Nigeria where it is used mainly in Abacha (African salad), stews and porridges. They are known as Akwukwo Anara or Akwukwo Ofe in Igbo language. The seed is called Mkpuru Anara, Efo Igba, Ganyen Gauta in Igbo, Yoruba and Hausa respectively.
Garden egg leaf is prominent as a blood pumping vegetables mostly when eaten or consumed fresh. They have loads of nutritional and health benefits. They have been used in the treatment of many health challenges.
Garden egg leaf is known for its blood pumping abilities. It helps to cleanse the internal body organs like the kidney, liver, hearts etc. They removes toxins from the kidney and other organs. This process is most effective when consumed raw or cooked for few minutes before consumption.
Garden egg leaves is said to improve the sexual health. They boost libido and deals with the problems of infertility.
They contains antioxidant that fights unwanted and unhealthy substances from the body. They are anti inflammatory and as such great in preventing tumors and risks of cancers. They are healthy vegetables for pregnant women. They are rich in vitamins and minerals required for proper development and health of unborn baby and also prevent the risks of congenital disabilities.
Proper and moderate consumption of garden egg leaf may help in weight management. It contains potassium which helps in the regulation of the blood pressure and protects the heart. It is rich in fibre and magnesium which are benefitial in the reduction of blood sugar level.
Fibres also promotes digestion of food. It also keeps the digestive system healthy and also prevent constipation.
Garden egg leaf contains a lot of nutrients which when adequately utilized may promote the general wellbeing of individual.
