Scent leaf is an aromatic herb richly found in Nigeria, Ghana and other parts of Africa. Scent leaf is called change among the Igbos, Efirin among the Yorubas and daidioya among the Hausa.
It is a leaf that is endowed with vitamins, antioxidants and minerals.
Minerals that are found in scent leaf include zinc, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin K and water.
Medicinal benefits of scent leaf.
1. Scent leaf is used to lower blood sugar levels which is a risk factor for diabetes.
2. Scent leaf helps in the treatment of cold and cough, it is boiled or steamed to either drink or inhale it.
3. Scent leaf helps in hair growth. The essential oil of scent leaf may help to enhance Normal hair growth
4. Scent leaf helps to fight against hypertension, heart failure and stroke.
5. It fights bacteria and fungal infections. The oil from the scent leaf contains antibacterial and antifungal.
6. Scent leaf serves as a fertility booster.
7. It helps prevent tooth decay and mouth odour.
8. It serves as skincare against ringworm.
9. Scent leaf promotes good eyesight due to its vitamin K content.
10. The calcium and magnesium found in scent leaf help in the reduction of bad cholesterol and increases blood circulation.
11. It aids fast digestion in the body system.
12. It reduces oxidant stress which is responsible for heart disease, cancer, arthritis and diabetes.
13. Scent leaf can be taken to reduce Central cramps.
14. It is repellant on mosquitoes and house flies.
15. It helps in the treatment of wounds on the body.
To achieve results, scent leaves can be used to cook different kinds of meals- pepper soup, porridge, soup, stew and rice.
Scent leaf can also be taken as tea when infused in hot water.
The best time to pick the leaves is in the morning before the sun sets out. When the sun is out, most of the essential oil would have disappeared into the atmosphere.
