African pear, popularly known by its Igbo name, ube, or bush pear, is a common delicacy in Nigeria. It also known as safou in Cameroon, and atanga in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon. However, the scientific name of African Pear is Dacryodes edulis. While it can be enjoyed on its own, many people prefer to eat it along with corn. Salt is usually added to the pear to give it some taste. It has a soft mashy inside as well as a soft flesh that can be eaten with a big pulp in the middle, which is the seed. The leaves of African pear are said to contain medicinal properties, so today, you will be finding out some of the health benefits of African pear leaves.
Many people who eat this African pear are unaware of its many health benefits or nutritional value of the fruit. Some of the nutrients it contains include calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, as well as a range of vitamins and other minerals. In addition, studies have indicated that African pear contains chemical constituents such as alkaloids, tannins, alkaloids, and terpenes.
If you would like to know some of the health benefits of the African pear leaves then you should read on.
1. Good For The Stomach
One of the key benefits of the African pear is that it is good for the stomach. This is because it is rich in fibre, especially insoluble fibre. While insoluble fibre cannot be digested, it helps to promote healthy digestion by easing the movement of the bowel. This helps to prevent constipation and a range of other gastrointestinal diseases. Another thing about insoluble fibre is that it adds bulk to stool, making it easier to pass out waste.
2. Good For The Heart
Your heart also benefits when you eat African pear. The fibre content in the pear helps to reduce the absorption of cholesterol from other foods you may have eaten. This in turn would reduce your bad cholesterol levels. High levels of bad cholesterol have been identified as the cause of many heart diseases, including hypertension. It is also rich in potassium and magnesium, two minerals that slow the pressure of the blood in the arteries. Although if you are eating African pear for your heart, then you should have it without salt.
3. Good For Your Bones
Eating African pear would also give you stronger bones and teeth. This is due to the fact that it contains calcium and phosphorous. Not only would it make your bones stronger but it would increase bone density as well. This makes it great for those suffering from osteoporosis.
4. Rich In Antioxidants
Antioxidants have so many effects on your body. First, they help to eliminate free radicals from your body. Free radicals are known to contaminate cells in the body. Some antioxidants like phytochemicals also help to fight cancer and other diseases. Having more antioxidants in your body would help to keep you healthy. African pear is also rich in Vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant that helps to boost your immune system, making it easier for your body to fight off diseases.
5. Good For The Skin
Eating African pear helps to promote healthy skin for you by improving your skin texture and look. Vitamin C keeps your skin smooth and fresh. The flesh of the pear can also be used to treat skin diseases like ringworm and scabies. As you can see, the health benefits of African pear are numerous. Thus, you should try to consume it regularly.
Other Health Benefits of African Pear Leaves:
- It has anti-inflammatory properties
- It may treat malaria
- It may treat dysentery
- It can be used to treat wounds
- It is good for the digestive system.
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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.
