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Bitter leaf has a taste that many people can’t withstand, though the plant really does have an impressive list of health benefits. So, if you can get past the flavour, you’ll be rewarded in more ways than one.
The health benefits of bitter leaf are impressive
Bitter leaf has a taste that many people can’t withstand, though the plant really does have an impressive list of health benefits. So, if you can get past the flavour, you’ll be rewarded in more ways than one.
The health benefits of this plant are miraculous.
The health benefits of this plant are miraculous
Also known as vernonia amygdalina, bitter leaf grows in most parts of sub-Saharan Africa, the plant is well regarded in traditional medicinal practice.
Historically, the leaf has been used as a treatment for many ailments from malaria, typhoid, diabetes, diarrhea, tuberculosis, gallstones and kidney disease, to the prevention of cancer and lowering of hypertension. The leaf has also been proven to possess antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Bitter leaf helps relieve stomach aches.
Bitter leaf is a well known traditional remedy for stomach aches. A study in the Toxicology Reports journal has also shown that the plant may provide some protection from stomach ulcers. It is thought that the antioxidants in bitter leaf contribute to these positive gastric effects.
- It may help protect against prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is a relatively common cancer especially amongst older men. While following the treatments prescribed by a medical professional are essential for successful treatment of prostate cancer, bitter leave has shown promise in the prevention of the disease by a study in the Nutrients journal . The same research also noted that the plant may improve survival rates as well.
It is thought that the high levels of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals such as flavonoids contribute to the preventative qualities of bitter leaf in regards to prostate cancer.
- Bitter leaf helps relieve insomnia.
While some people fall asleep as soon as they hit the pillow, not being able to sleep is an issue for many. Insomnia can range from an occasional inconvenience to a debilitating condition. 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.
- The plant may enhance fertility
A study in the International Journal of Reproductive Biomedicine has shown that the plant may have a positive effect on sperm quality. All in all, the generally high levels of vitamins and minerals in bitter leaf are beneficial to overall health, so will be beneficial to a couple trying to conceive.