The health benefits and uses of Okra also known as ladies fingers.
1. Okra is a delicious green vegetable which has some excellent health properties and is used as a natural medicine.
2. It is very popular in southern America, but is used all over the world in delicious meals. It is sometimes known as ladies fingers, gumbo or ochro.
3. This has been used since ancient times, most notably by Cleopatra a powerful female Egyptian ruler around 2000 years ago.
4. It contains some fantastic nutrients including protein, carbohydrates, folic acid, magnesium, fiber, potassium, calcium, vitamin C and A.
5. One of the proteins in this vegetable is called lectin. This has been scientifically tested and kills breast cancer cells, and slows cancer growth by 63 percent.
6. Okra is a simply fantastic source of calcium, which helps to regulate your heart rate, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
7. The excellent amount of pectin in this vegetable can decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease, by lowering bad cholesterol levels. This also helps you to maintain a healthy heart.
8. It can reduce the risk of bowel cancer, and can be used to lubricate the large intestines and get rid of constipation. This is a great alternative to laxative drugs.
9. In the Congo they were traditionally used to help pregnant women have a safe delivery.
10. The root of the okra plant is also said to have medicinal properties. In fact, it has been used in South-East Asia as a natural remedy for syphilis.
11. Eating okra regularly also has anti-depressant effects, and can be used to boost the mood and make you feel happier.
12. It is used by many Olympic athletes because of its large range of health benefits. These super fit individuals have to stay healthy and energised at all times.
13. It contains polysaccharides which have been shown to have the effect of Viagra, without the need for artificial drugs. This can increase sexual drive and stamina also.
14. It has been used in traditional medicine to control blood sugar levels for those with diabetes. In turkey the seeds would be roasted and eaten, but nowadays okra water is usually made. Please see our video titled Okra for Diabetes for more information.
15. Okra can have a bitter taste if not prepared properly. It is usually boiled, but can also be steamed, fried or eaten raw.
16. It often used in delicious soups, stews, curries and salads especially in South America.
17. When growing Okra yourself, it’s beast to remove the lower leaves of the plant after the first harvest. This causes more growth.
18. Older okra pods may be too bitter, so it is recommended to eat them when young. However, the seeds of mature pods can be roasted and ground to make a coffee alternative.
19. The seeds are also used to make a delicious cooking oil in many Mediterranean countries.
20. In Turkey the leaves of the plant are often mashed and used as a paste to treat skin inflammation.
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