Prekese is a flowering plant found in many parts of West Africa. The scientific name of prekese is Tetrapleura tetraptera. The plant has tons of benefits that are often overlooked. The plant is also known as oshosho, osakirisa, or Aidan fruit. It is also called Uhio (Uhiokrihio) in the Igbo language. It is mainly used as a cooking spice and characterized by a sweet but strong flavor.
The Aidan tree is unique to West Tropical Africa and may grow up to 25m (82 ft) tall. The medicinal properties of this amazing plant are numerous, and the list below features some of them.
10 Health benefits of Prekese
The following are some of the potential health benefits of prekese.
1. It might be used to manage diabetes
Prekese is reported to reduce blood glucose levels. It might also be used in treating Type 2 diabetes. According to a 2014 study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, extracts of Prekese leaves were able to alleviate diabetes in rats. They stated that the leaves possessed a capacity for the treatment of diabetes. This is one of the potential health benefits of drinking boiled prekese, as it is said to help in the management of diabetes.
2. Used to treat fever
Prekese has also been said to be effective in treating fever. Most people drink it as tea; h.owever, you can also have your bath with prekese infused water to get the health benefits. This medicine can also be used to treat constipation, enema, and emetic.
3. Postpartum care
Prekese plant pod is best used as a soup ingredient for postpartum mothers to manage contractions. Potassium, iron, and calcium in the pod are essential nutrients postpartum mothers need. In addition, soup made from the plant’s pod can help in blood restoration and milk production in nursing mothers. It is one of the most common ethnomedicinal plants used in postnatal recovery for nursing mothers in Nigeria.
4. Wound-healing properties
The plant’s moist extract contains wound-healing properties. A study at Uyo University showed that the prekese plant could speed up the healing process of injuries sustained to the body. Another study conducted in 2014 found out that Tetrapleura tetraptera stem-bark extract applied topically promoted healing of excision and incision wounds in rats.
5. Fights off bacteria
Antibacterial and microbiological agents are found in the prekese plant. The plant’s extract is used to make soap that can combat skin problems, irritation, and bacterial infections. Numerous studies have attested to the powerful antibacterial properties of prekese.
6. Used to treat leprosy
Leprosy is a condition that can significantly impact the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes, resulting in lumps and blemishes. Mutilation and anomalies can occur in more severe cases of leprosy. The aidan plant is effective in treating leprosy, per a study. It is one of the most effective medicinal plants of Nigeria, used in the management of leprosy,
7. Management of convulsion
Parts of the prekese plant like the leaves, stem, bark, and fruit are commonly used in traditional medicine to make herbal concoctions. According to research, the aqueous extract of the plant has anticonvulsant properties that target the central nervous system. This can aid in the control of convulsions. Another study stated that prekese plat has anticonvulsant properties
8. Anti-inflammatory properties
According to various animal studies, prekese extracts contain anti-inflammatory properties that can be used to manage a variety of pathogens. The plant can be used to reduce inflammation, rheumatoid, and arthritis.
9. Enhances cardiovascular health
Since it contains healthy phytochemicals, prekese can be used to boost the cardiovascular system. It can also be used to treat problems of the heart.
10. Molluscicidal properties
Molluscicides have been found in aqueous extracts of plants stalk, bark, leaves, stems, and roots of prekese. This explains why prekese is excellent in controlling pests. For example, gardeners often use it to control gastropod pests such as snails and slugs.
Bottom Line
Prekese (Tetrapleura tetraptera) has many powerful health benefits and medicinal properties. However, there is still a need for more medical research to further examine its effects on humans. Prekese can easily be gotten from your local store or your traditional herb seller. However, you should discuss it with your medical doctor before drinking it.
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Collins Nwokolo is a human physiologist, writer and health enthusiast. He loves writing helpful articles on health and fitness, which he enjoys sharing with everyone.
