26/08/2022
How to cook Afang soup
This is a vegetable soup that originates from the Efik
people of the Efik kingdom in Cross River State and the Ibibio People of Akwa Ibom in Southern Nigeria.
Botanical name: Gnetum Africanum
Nigerians called it (Ukazi or Afang) Leaves
It is referred to as "wild spinach" in English
Health Benefits:
The health benefits of ukazi (afang) also known as Gnetum Africanum include the treatment of enlarged spleens, sore throats, and nausea. Ukazi also eases constipation and helps to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. The health benefits of ukazi are an attribute of their rich antioxidant, vitamin and mineral contents
• The leaf is an excellent source of aspartic acid,fiber, cysteine, proline, vitamins, sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, potassium, copper and so many more.
• Healthy Heart
The fibre in ukazi can reduce bad (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels, thereby supporting heart health. Eating fibre regularly also lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease, and helps to slow the progression of heart disease in individuals who are already affected with it.
• Ukazi is a great source of quality proteins since they provide the essential amino acids we need for growth and tissue repair. Replacing meat with ukazi as a source of protein can help to reduce the amount of saturated and trans fats in the diet. This can also help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Ukazi is a good source of magnesium, a mineral that helps to decrease blood pressure.
• Improved Digestion and Weight Loss and its also improves bone health
Ukazi is a rich source of calcium especially for people who are intolerant to dairy or those who eat a vegan diet.
• Treats Malaria. Afang leaf helps in combating diseases as it has anti-bacterial and anti-parasite properties that are needed to cure malaria.
• Treats Skin Diseases. Afang leaf heals and cures common skin diseases, such as eczema, and rashes, just by squeezing the leaves and applying the juice and paste on the affected parts.
• Controls excess urination
The seeds can be chewed raw for controlling excessive urination in kids and adults as well and used in the treatment of overactive bladder
• And many other benefits that are not mentioned here .