Why this vegetable should be part of your daily diet

Ewedu also known as jute mallow/Egyptian spinach/bush okra/ West African sorrech is an unsung hero in our kitchen.

Ewedu is packed with nutrients our bodies can't produce. It is also called "Ahingbara" by the Igbos and "Rama" in the Hausa language. Ewedu has been part of the Yoruba’s diet for so many decades and it is popularly eaten among the West Africans.

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Ewedu vegetable is often prepared by the Yoruba’s and is known for its greenish slimy appearance when cooked.

Here are reasons why it should be part of your daily diet. Get the Ewedu recipe here.

1. It is recommended for people suffering from psoriasis

Sufferers of dry scaly skin can make ewedu a part of their regular diet to help keep the skin soft, supple and smooth.

Vitamins A and E in ewedu are known for its anti-ageing properties and can help to reduce the visibility of fine lines, age spots and wrinkles. It also combats dull skin and promotes the production of collagen that keeps your skin supple and youthful.

2. Say goodbye to hair loss

Eating ewedu regularly will ensure that your hair follicles are strengthened. The antioxidants in the veggies work to condition your hair and ensures your scalp is moisturised.

Ewedu contains Vitamin A which is required for hair health.

3. Helps fight cancer

Ewedu contains Vitamins A, C, and E which wards off tissue damage that can cause cancer. It also has antioxidants and lignin that can provide protection against the development of cancer cells, inhibit the incidence of tumours, and increase the lifespan of breast cancer patients.

4. Contains anti-inflammatory properties

Ewedu is known to have anti-inflammatory properties and tea brewed from the leaves is given to people suffering from arthritis, stomach ache and headache.

5. Packed with fibre for your digestive system

The high fibre content in Ewedu helps to keep your digestive system healthy by promoting regular bowel movements.

Sufferers of constipation can include this vegetable in their daily diet.