Okra

Okra is an edible immature mucilaginous seed pod commonly grown in the tropics and warmer parts of the temperate zones. It is properly and essentially in capsule. It is a common vegetable known as ‘lady’s finger’ used in the preparation of soups and stews.

Mostly, okra is available in many forms: fresh, sliced, dried and even powdered – depending on the need. It contains vitamins, minerals and even antioxidants that inhibit ageing, and also prevents cell damage caused by stress and factors emanating from the environment.

Like many other vegetables and plants of medical essence, okra is stands out in the medicinal benefit discourse. Here are some of those medical benefits it offers:

• ü Okra prevents diabetes. Diabetes is a global non-chronic disease that’s worrying. The anti-diabetic effect in okra is one thing that slows down the absorption of sugar in the blood. Thus, it is feasible in preventing diabetes.
• ü It improves digestion. Indigestion can sometimes be a problem, often coming unpredictably. But the high fiber levels in okra helps the intestine to get rid of waste materials and promote bowel movement. It is an excellent laxative that treats irritable bowels, heals ulcers and soothes the gastrointestinal tract. These fibers detoxify the body as they bind cholesterol and bile acid and eject toxins.
• ü Okra aids pregnancy. Pregnancy is apparently very delicate and sensitive, but one thing that helps it to fruition is okra. It promotes fetal development during the fourth to twelfth weeks of gestation period in the mother’s womb due to its richness in folic acid.
• ü It strengthens bones. Okra aids bone growth and reduces osteoporosis effect in the bone due to its levels in vitamin K and folates. This, in return, makes the bones denser.
• ü It prevents asthma. Due to its high levels in antioxidants and vitamin C, okra helps in preventing asthma. In adverse circumstances where it is already developed, it helps in relieving it, too.
• ü It prevents cancer. The okra fibers reduce the risk for colon and rectal cancer, and detoxify the body. They also help in cleaning the intestinal tract.
• ü It helps in preventing obesity. For the fact that there are no calories in okra, it helps in preventing problems associated with obesity. This is consolidated with the fact that it makes its consumer full.
• ü It lowers cholesterol levels. Because of its richness in soluble fiber Pectin, it helps in lowering the bad cholesterol and prevents atherosclerosis – which is the clogging or hardening of arteries or blood vessels caused by plaques. In other words, it is the accumulation of fatty deposits, usually cholesterols, in the blood vessels.

Okra boosts immune system. Due to the high antioxidants, essential minerals and vitamins it has, it helps in fighting the free radicals and reducing anemia in the body.