Ewedu is a species of vegetable that is grown mainly for food. Ewedu, also known as jute in English, is packed with nutrients and has immense health benefits on the body. The name “ewedu” is from the Yoruba tribe, where the vegetable features as a common ingredient for soups, while the Hausa people call it rama. Ewedu leaves are used to prepare ewedu soup.
Although it may seem like a Nigerian affair, ewedu is eaten all around the world and dates back to around the time of ancient Egypt. Ewedu, botanically known as “Corchorus Olitorius” is a very healthy plant with many nutrients, including fat, fibre, protein, calcium, thiamine, riboflavin, phosphorus, Vitamins A, C, E and much more. From what we have seen, eating ewedu would do a lot of good for your body. [1]
So without wasting further time, let us look at some of the health benefits of ewedu (jute leaves).
10 Profound Health Benefits Of Jute Leaves (Ewedu)
1. Acne prevention and treatment
Eating ewedu can help to prevent the appearance of acne on the skin and could also help in treating it. Acne is caused by over-secretion of sebum from the sebaceous glands. Ewedu has properties, like vitamin A, that can help to control the secretion of sebum, reducing the appearance of acne.
2. Strengthening bones and teeth
Ewedu contains a healthy amount of calcium that would help to strengthen your bones and teeth. Besides the calcium, there is also phosphorus, which maintains bone density and prevents the risk of osteoporosis, especially in younger children.
A single cup of cooked jute leaves, weighing 87 grams, contains 184 mg of calcium and 54 mg of magnesium. These amounts constitute 14% and 13% of the daily value for adults, respectively.
3. Aids digestion
Eating ewedu also aids digestion and bowel movement and reduces the chances of constipation. This is due to the fibre content in ewedu. Fibre makes it easier to digest food and pass waste out of the body as well.
4. Aids weight loss
Those who are looking for a way to lose weight can try adding ewedu to their diet for a significant change. This soup is one of the best Nigerian foods for weight loss. The fibre in it aids digestion, which helps the metabolism process. Ewedu also contains other nutrients like vitamin B and magnesium that also help one maintain weight.
5. Maintains the skin
Ewedu also has a role to play in maintaining a fine and radiant skin. While it helps to clear acne, it also contains other vitamins that facilitate the production of collagen in the body. It also has fatty acids, which keep the skin moisturised, preventing cracks and wrinkles. It is rich in vitamin C which is very good for the skin.
6. Improves hair health
Your hair also has a lot to gain when you take ewedu. This is because it contains Omega 3, which is known to boost hair growth and help keep the hair healthy and strong. The anti-inflammatory properties in the plant also help to keep dandruff away from the hair by preventing scalp exfoliation.
7. Reduce cholesterol levels
Ewedu also plays a role in improving heart health by reducing cholesterol levels in the body. This is achieved with the help of Omega 3 acids present in the plant. Reducing cholesterol levels also lowers the risk of heart diseases. If you are looking for a Nigerian food with low cholesterol then, ewedu soup is what you might need.
8. May prevent cancer
Ewedu contains antioxidants that help to remove free radicals from the body. Free radicals infect other cells and cause them to become cancerous. The more these cells spread, the greater the risk of cancer. Antioxidants also prevent the growth of tumours. Ewedu contains properties that protect the prostate and colon, keeping them free and safe from toxins. [3]
9. Supports pregnancy
Jute leaves are a good source of folate, with one cooked cup of jute leaves providing 23% of the daily value (DV) of folate. Folate is an essential nutrient for pregnant women as it plays a crucial role in fetal development, particularly in the early stages of pregnancy.
Adequate folate intake can help prevent birth defects of the brain and spine, known as neural tube defects. Therefore, consuming jute leaves as part of a balanced diet can support a healthy pregnancy by providing a good source of folate.
10. Strengthens the immune system
Did you know that 1 cooked cup of jute leaves provides 32% of the daily value of vitamin C? That’s right! Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to boost the immune system and protect the body against harmful pathogens. By including jute leaves in your diet, you can help to strengthen your immune system and keep yourself healthy and happy.
There are so many other health benefits of ewedu (jute leaves). The leaves are rich in beta-carotene which is vital for good eyesight, and also contain much iron, which is great for healthy red blood cells. It might also reduce the risk of chronic diseases, liver issues and heart problems. [2]
Bottom Line
Ewedu is a nutritious leafy vegetable with so many antioxidants and nutrients. Ewedu leaves are used to prepare ewedu soup, a tasty Nigerian soup. The health benefits of ewedu includes its ability to aid in weight management, digestion and many more.
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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.
