Catholic leaves, also known as "iyana ipaja" by the indigenous Yoruba people of Nigeria, are a wonderful group of vegetables with fantastic health benefits. This vegetable belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and is grown in several locations in West Africa and several areas of Nigeria, including Edo, Lagos, and others.
It is referred to as "hospital too far" in several regions since people believe it can treat many illnesses without hospitalisation. Because it is a Mayan plant, it is called Chaya by the Mayans and is officially known as Jatropha tanjorensis. Combining different herbs can make iyana ipaja into a meal or drink, depending on its intended usage. It is believed to treat various ailments but how true are such claims?
Because of its many applications and characteristics, Iyana ipaja, known by the Ibos' name, Ugu oyibo, is also God's gift. Among many other remarkable advantages, it has antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant capabilities. Moreover, this vegetable is high in iron, Vitamin A, calcium, and Vitamin C.
Benefits of iyana ipaja or catholic leaf
It is presumed to treat a variety of ailments. However, concrete evidence is lacking for such a claim.
Iyana ipaja has the following advantages:
- Catholic leaves help boost blood circulation and development.
- This vegetable possesses antimicrobial properties.
- "Hospital too far" helps improve constipation by inducing bowel movements.
- Hospital too far, is known to increase sexual libido in both males and females.
- Jatropha tanjorensis leaves help to cure skin conditions, thereby clearing the skin. This vegetable is beneficial in purifying the skin texture and may prevent many unwanted skin conditions and diseases.
- Catholic leaves help cure fever, especially for children.
Uses of Iyana Ipaja
Although no evidence supports it, it is believed that iyana ipaja can make labour easier for expectant mothers.
You can add it to food as a vegetable or herbal supplement for extra vitamins and minerals. Iyana ipaja is used as a food and medicinal in many different places.
How can I prepare/use catholic leaf?
There are various ways to consume catholic leaf, most commonly as part of a meal.
You might utilise iyana ipaja, also known as catholic leaf, to prepare it as a meal just like any other leaf. However, boil the leaf for 3-5 minutes for consumption since it contains various toxins. Due to their danger, do not eat them raw.
Always use gloves and use caution when handling iyana ipaja due to its sap's irritating qualities.
Is Iyana ipaja safe for pregnant women?
The safety of iyana ipaja for expectant mothers is not well understood scientifically. As such, check in with your health professional before consumption.
Nonetheless, it is always crucial to seek advice from your healthcare professional before using any herb you are unfamiliar with during pregnancy to ensure that it is healthy for both mother and foetus.
If you are familiar with iyana ipaja, tell us why you love it and how using it has helped you.
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