Fluted pumpkin (Ugwu)is one of the commonly
consumed dark green leafy vegetables in Nigeria and
many of us in Nigeria have been eating Ugwu without
really realising the benefits.
This type of dark green leafy vegetable is so versatile
and can be recognised as a panacea to cure some of
our hunger as well as illness if only we can look deep
into its benefits.
While many people prefer to cook it as a vegetable with
all the condiments that help wet the appetite, some just
boil and eat it plain like that or blend it into a shake.
What ever the case may be, there are guaranteed level
of various nutrients with any style.
See the following health benefits of Ugwu:
1. Contains a healthy amount of vitamins.
2. Prevention of convulsion- the young leaves are sliced
and mixed with salt and coconut water and then stored
in a bottle for treatment of convulsion.
3. Lowers cholesterol- leaves have hypolipdemic effect
and may be a useful therapy in hypercholestolemia.
4. Boosts fertility- a study shows that ugu has the ability
to regenerate testicular damage and increase
spermatogenesis.
5. Protects the liver.
6. It has antibacterial effect.
7. Rich in iron and can be used to cure anaemia.
8. Can be used by nursing mothers to lactate properly.
9. Is good for diabetics as it has sugar reducing effects.
0. Increases blood volume.
1. Boosts immune system.
2. Has high protein content.