Mother Africa Okazi leaves (Afang Leaf) 25g

Mother Africa Okazi leaves (Afang Leaf) 25g

This is well grown in West Africa as a leaf vegetable and also for its edible seed. It belongs to a member of the Curcurbitaceaefamilyand is indigenous to southern Nigeria. Ugu is mostly cultivated in Nigeria by southeastern Nigeria and widely distributed among the Igbo speaking people, particularly Imo state. It is mainly used in soups and herbal medicines. The seed produced by the gourd is high in protein and fat, and can, therefore, contribute to a well-balanced diet. It is widely cultivated in the West and Central Africa (Benin Republic, Cameroon, Nigeria, Sierra Leone to Angola, and up to Uganda in East Africa). It is called ‘ugu’ by the Igbos, ‘ugwu’ by the Yorubas and ‘ekobon’ by the Cameroonians.

Health Benefits of Ugu leaf 

1. The seeds are used in making cakes which are high in protein and are suitable for fortifying foods

2. Pregnant women suffering from anaemia are advised to use the leaf to strengthen the blood

3. The oilseeds have lactating properties and are therefore in high demand by women with young babies.

4. The sliced young leaves mixed with coconut water and salt can be stored in a bottle and used for the treatment of convulsion

5.The Telfairia occidentalis juice used in the management of hypercholesterolaemia, liver problems, and impaired immune system

6. The Telfairia occidentalis juice has the potential to regenerate testicular damage and therefore can be used used to remedy reproductive and fertility issues

7. Telfairia is high in antioxidant and free radical scavenger properties and that may contribute to why many use the leave extract in oxidative damage condition such as cancers, liver and liver diseases.

8. Nursing mothers are advised to drink the Telfairia occidentalis juice in other to replenish lost blood, due to its high iron content

9. The Telfairia occidentalis can also be used for the treatment of malaria