Things You Didn't Know About Bitter Leaf

Botanica name: Vernonia amygdalina

Common name:
It is called "Ewuro" among the yoruba people (Ibadan), "Etidot" among the ijaw people(Cross-river), Igbo people call it "Onugbu" and it is called "shiwakas" in Hausa language.

Ever heard of Bitter leaf? As its name suggests, it is a plant whose main characteristic is it bitter stem and leaves. There also exists a species of the plant which produces a ‘sweet‘ leaf.
Bitter leaf is also referred to as ironweed.
Bitter leaf is able to flourish in a variety of climates unlike other plants which are often native to certain areas. Although most popularly used for food, bitter leaf has also traditionally been used for its medicinal properties now proven by medical research.

With around a thousand varieties, the bitter leaf plant’s uses range from antimicrobial to decorative. Some of the most common uses are noted below.
Common uses of Bitter leaf

1. Stomach ache

Chewing the tender stem and swallowing the juices is a well known remedy for stomach aches. Alternatively pound the fresh leaves in a mortar to extract the juice. Add a pinch of salt to three tablespoons of the undiluted juice and drink. This version is reported to bring immediate relief.

2. Skin Infections

For skin infections such as ringworm, itching, rashes and eczema, the pure, undiluted extract of bitter leaf is excellent. Simply apply it to the affected part daily.
The roots are used by sufferers of gingivitis and toothache due to antimicrobial properties which prevent the growth of bacteria.

3. Good for the liver

Weighing between 1 and 3 kilograms, the liver is essential for the metabolism of fats and protein and must therefore be well taken care of. Alcohol, sugar, and processed foods we often feed ourselves can weaken the liver and make it susceptible to infections.
Damage to the liver is often difficult to reverse and bitter leaf has long been used as a toner for this and other vital organs of the organ of the body.

4. Diabetes

As with the liver, bitter leaf helps repair the pancreas as well as cut down sugar levels in the blood. Agitate and squeeze ten handfuls of the fresh leaves in ten litres of water and drink two glasses thrice daily for one month.

5. Insomnia

Bitter leaf extract has been known to work magic for many unable to get restful sleep.
Taken two glasses of bitter leaf solution every night help to experience great calm and well being.

6. Fatigue

Often feel weak and tired? Do you lack vitality and vigour? Squeeze the leaves in water and drink a glass three times daily. Soon you will experience a new lease of energy.

7. Stroke

Bitter leaf solution has a calming effect on the nerves, strengthens the muscles and cleanses the system.

8. Arthritis

Arthritis or rheumatism patients who have tried bitter-leaf solution as described above attest to its effectiveness. It soothes inflamed joints and eradicates the pain.