Bitter leaf is popular among old people but everybody seems to know it. It grows everywhere because It is a homely plant.
The biological name of bitter –leaf is veronica amydalina. The Igbo people call it Onugbu , while the Yoruba call it Ewuro. The Hausa call it Shiwaka.
Perhaps the most distinctive part of the bitter-leaf is its bitterness. Every part of the plan is bitter viz: the leaves, stems,root and the bark.
The Igbos of the Eastern Nigeria use the bitter-leaf mostly as vegetable, while the Yoruba use It more as a medicine.
Bittter herbs are good for the body and his also might remind us that life is not always sweet.-that life is not a bed of roses. Bitter herbs help to tone the vital organs of the body, especially the liver and the kidney.
The following are some of the benefits we can derive from using bitter leaf :
- Stomach-ache:
Chew the tender stem of the plant like a chewing stick and swallow the bitterness. This is a well-known remedy for stomach ache. In some cases , the ache stops within a few minutes.
On the other hand , you can pound the fresh leaves in a mortal and squeeze out the juice. Add a pinch of salt to three tablespoonful of the undiluted juice and drink. This will bring immediate relief.
- Loss of Memory:
Loss of memory can be a symptom of diabetes, or a sickness on its own. Whatever the nature might be , bitter –leaf is good for this ailment. Take one glass thrice daily for at least two months.
3.Prostate Cancer:
Prostate Cancer is common among men who are over 40 years old . Its symptom is difficult and painful urination , among others. Bitter leaf is very potent for this ailment . I increases the flow of urine and reduces he pain , as well as regulates the spread of the cell. Simply squeeze the fresh leaves in water and take a glassful four times daily. Don’t be surprised if you begin to urinate very frequently when you take the bitter leaf extract; it’s part of the cleansing and healing process that your body needs.
4.Skin Infection:
For skin infections such as ring worm, itching , rashes and eczema. The pure, undiluted extract of bitter leaf is excellent . Simply apply it to the affected part daily.
- General Weakness:
Do you find yourself often feeling weak and tired? Do you lack vitality and vigour? Get up, and take a walk into nearby bush around you to get a bitter leaf plant for your use. Squeeze the leaves in water and take a glass thrice daily and very soon , you will experience a new lease of energy .
6.Pneumonia:
Squeeze the fresh leaves of the plant in water. Take a glass –full thrice daily . Warm the solution on fire each time before drinking. Remember , do not boil, just arm. Continue the medication for a month. You do not need to squeeze the leaves each time you want to drink it. You can squeeze a large quantity at once and add some honey. This will help preserve the solution.
However, notice that if you store bitter leaf extract for twenty-four hours or more, the bitterness will disappear or diminish.
- Insomnia:
Bitter –leaf has been very efficacious for those suffering from sleeplessness. Just take two glasses of bitter –leaf solution every night. There will be great calm and relief. You may add a little honey if you wish.
NOTICE: If symptoms persist after the prescribed doses, consul your Doctor.