Also known as Egyptian spinach, bush okra, West African sorrech and jews mallow, and Cypriot Molehiya.. Jew’s mallow is a powerhouse of nutrients that can benefit your body, hair and skin. Did you know that this edible leafy vegetable is also known as Cleopatra’s Secret? There are claims that Cleopatra drank Molehiya every day to maintain her beauty and youthful looks.
1. Dry Skin Cure:
If you suffer from dry scaly skin, it is time to make Molehiya a part of your regular diet to help keep the skin soft, supple and smooth. This would explain why Molehiya is recommended for people suffering from psoriasis.
2. Acne Fighting Properties:
The vitamin Molehiya helps to fight acne and also works to rebuild damaged tissue, thereby minimizing the scars left behind by acne.
3. Anti-aging:
Vitamins A and E in Molehiya are known for its anti-aging properties. It can help to reduce the visibility of fine lines, age spots and wrinkles. It also can help combat dull skin, which tends to be one of the first signs of aging. The Vitamin C in the vegetable helps to promote production of collagen that keeps your skin supple and youthful. It also is a potent antioxidant that destroys free radicals that can cause premature aging of the skin.
4. Revitalizes Skin:
Vitamin B1 in Molehiya helps to boost blood circulation to the skin. As a result your skin gets a healthy glow.
5. Soft Healthy Hair:
The Vitamin E boosts blood circulation to your scalp, ensuring hair follicles get ample nutrients. As a result, you can boast of soft hair with no split ends.
6.Stronger Hair:
Eating Molehiya regularly will ensure that you get Vitamin A, which is required for hair health. This vitamin helps to strengthen hair follicles and thus, you can kiss excessive hair loss goodbye.
7. Natural Moisturizer:
The antioxidants in the veggies work to condition your hair and ensure the sebum moisturizes your scalp. So, you will never battle dandruff due to dry scalp or complain of itchiness.
8. Reduce the Rate of Greying:
The B complex vitamins in Molehiya help slow down the process of hair greying. So this helps to maintain a youthful look.
9. Healthy Eyesight:
The Vitamin A in the veggies promotes healthy eyesight. You also will find that your eyes have a glow.
10. Anti-Inflammatory:
Molehiya is known to have anti-inflammatory properties and that is why tea brewed from the leaves is given to people suffering from arthritis, stomach ache and headache. Drinking the brew can also reduce the pain.
11. Healthy Digestion:
The high fibre content in Molehiya helps to keep your digestive system healthy by promoting regular bowel movements. If you suffer from constipation, think of including this vegetable in your daily diet.
12. Other Health Benefits:
There are many other health benefits of including Molhiya in your diet. Some of these include:
- Prevents the onset of diabetes
- Prevents heart disease and elevated cholesterol levels
- Helps to regulate blood pressure
- Prevents symptoms due to asthma, colds and flu
- Claims are made that it can fight drug resistant bacterial infections
- Alleviates symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress
- Can regulate menstrual periods in women
MOLEHIYA NUTRITIONAL VALUE:
Considering the vitamins and minerals that this spinach-like vegetable has, it is a powerhouse of nutrients. It contains the following nutrients:
- Beta carotene
- Calcium
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
- Niacin
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Potassium
- Iron
- Folate
- Dietary fibre
Since Molehiya contains folate, it is often recommended for pregnant women. Results show that it is safe for pregnant women and nursing mothers.
So now that you know of all these benefits, we are sure you will make this healthy ingredient a part of your diet. Do share your experiences in the comments below!