Although bitter leaf has a taste that many people can’t withstand, the plant really does have an impressive list of health benefits. If only you can get past the flavour, you’ll be rewarded in so many ways.
The plant grows in most part of sub-saharan Africa and it is well regarded in traditional medicinal practice.
Here are some of the benefits of bitter leaf:
1. Bitter leaf helps relieve stomach aches
Bitter leaf is a well known traditional remedy for stomach aches. The plant also provides some protection from stomach ulcers and it is believed that the antioxidants in bitter leaf contribute to these positive gastric effects.
2. It may help protect against prostate cancer
While following the treatments prescribed by a medical professional for a successful treatment of prostate cancer, bitter leaf also helps in the prevention of the disease and may improve survival rates as well.
3. Bitter leaf helps relieve insomnia
Not being able to sleep is an issue for many, and insomnia can range from an occasional inconvenience to a debilitating condition. However, bitter leaf has traditionally been used to help with insomnia.
Drinking a bitter leaf solution at night, before bed is thought to bring on a calmness and relaxation that aids sleep.
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4. Bitter leaf may enhance fertility
Studies have shown that bitter leaf has a positive effect on sperm quality. The high levels of vitamins and minerals in bitter leaf are beneficial to overall health, and so, will also be beneficial to coupled trying to conceive.
5. Bitter leaf helps relieve fever
Bitter leaf contains flavonoids, which have powerful antioxidant effects, and can help with treating a variety of health issues such as a high fever.
Other health benefits of bitter leaf include:
- It has properties that may aid in the treatment of diabetes
- Bitter leaf has properties that may aid high blood pressure
- The plant is good for bones and teeth
- Bitter leaf improves metabolic function
- It helps fight free radicals
For traditional medicinal purposes, bitter leaf is often consumed by chewing the tender stem to release a bitter liquid. Alternatively, you can also pound the fresh leaves in a mortar and then press our the juice. After which you add a pinch of salt to three tablespoons of the undiluted liquid and drink.
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