Corchorus olitorius also known as the jute leaf is the second most cultivated vegetable fibre right after cotton. The jute leaf is consumed globally; in Nigeria it is cooked into a slimy stew called ewedu eaten most especially by the Yoruba people. The jute leaf contains a number of nutritional benefits.
facts about ewedu
- It is made up of nutrients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin E which help in keeping the human body protected against diseases.
- The vitamins also enable the production of collagen which is beneficial for the health of the skin.
- The presence of Vitamins A, C, and E in ewedu also helps to prevent tissue damages that can cause cancer. The antioxidant in it acts as a shield against cancer causing cells.
- Eating ewedu can also help with reducing the discomfort of menstrual cramps.
- Ewedu is also beneficial for the hair. The vitamins in it protects the hair against hair loss and baldness.
- Ewedu helps ward off dandruff.
- The stem of the plant is used as a fibre for producing curtains, carpets and rugs.
- Ewedu a common belief among the locals that consuming ewedu leaves, squeezed out with the stem, can help induce labour and also increase breast milk for lactating and nursing mothers.
- Ewedu enhances eyesight and lowers the risk of eye-related disorders.
- Ewedu is ideal for weight loss.
- The vitamin E in it helps with age-related pains and provides stamina.