Alugbati is commonly grown as a backyard plant in the garden. Also known as Malabar Spinach, it is a leafy green vegetable, which is popular in the Philippines. It has heart-shaped leaves that grow along a bright red stem. It bears fruit that ranges from dark green to red color. It can help treat many ailments as it contains calories, minerals, vitamins, protein, and water.
Like other green vegetables, alugbati leaves are rich in iron and have plenty of nutrition which is for useful health. Every 100 grams of alugbati leaves contains the following:
Calories – 19
Iron – 6%
Carbohydrate – 3.4 gr
Magnesium – 16%
Fat – 0.3 gr
Calcium – 10%
Protein – 1.8 gr
Vitamin A – 160%
Vitamin B6 – 10%
Vitamin C – 170%
Sodium – 24 mg
Potassium – 510 mg
Health Benefits Of Alugbati Leaves
Control Blood Pressure
Alugbati leaves are so powerful when it comes to controlling your blood pressure. Its high manganese and potassium contents are beneficial for heart rate and blood pressure. These are the main reason why it can prevent heart disease as well as able to relieve a headache related to high blood pressure
Prevent Cancer
Like other vegetables, alugbati is also packed with antioxidants. It fights free radicals, which is the main reason for some cancer. According to studies, green vegetables are excellent in preventing the growth of cancer cells in the oral cavity and lungs.
Prevent Constipation
Its leaves are good for your digestive system. It aids bowel movement thus, preventing constipation and other related digestive problems.
Relieve Ulcer
The smoothness of alugbati leaves is able to relieve stomach ulcers. It is healthy and safe for any digestive problems.
Good For Pregnancy
Alugbati leaves can provide folate, which is needed by pregnant women. It is essential for the baby’s nervous system.
Lose Weight
Every single serving of alugbati leaves contains many nutrients like natural fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, it is very low in calories. Its fiber content is also beneficial in improving your digestive organs, therefore, resulting in a good metabolism system which is the key to losing weight.
Release Toxins
As alugbati can improve bowel movement, it allows the body to release toxins from feces. Aside from this, its leaves are also known as a diuretic. It enables the body to release toxins through urine.
Prevent Anemia
Also called as spinach, these leaves are also rich in iron. Its 100 grams of fresh leaves can fulfill 15% of your daily need of iron. Regular consumption of these can keep you from getting anemia.
Improve Eyesight
Alugbati leaves and its stem are rich in vitamin A, which is important for the eye’s health. Consumption of alugbati can, therefore, improve your eyesight.
Help You Sleep
Besides maintaining the health of your skin and internal organs, alugbati can also help you relax. Magnesium and zinc present in alugbati, help you close your eyes, relax your whole body and quickly recharge your energy.
Soften Skin
If you want to have soft skin, apply alugbati leaves on your skin and use it as a facial mask. It re-hydrates and cools down your skin.
Anti-Aging Property
Aside from cancer, free radicals also cause premature aging. Prevent this by applying alugbati leaves to your skin. It has antioxidants that slow down the aging process and also make your skin look younger.
Reduce Swelling
The leaves’ ability in cooling down skin is beneficial in reducing swelling. Its vitamin content blocks inflammation and reduces swelling.
Boost Immunity
Various studies reveal that alugbati are high in vitamin C. which is very good in improving the immune system.
Recommendation In Consuming Alugbati Leaves
Make sure to choose fresh, shiny leaves and firm stems. Avoid those sunken, discolored, and dry leaves. Before cooking, wash the alugbati leaves in cold running water. This vegetable is good to include in soup, stir-fry, or stew.
