Ogbono soup is one of the most popular and delicious soups in Nigeria. Its rich, smooth texture goes well with any type of swallow. Ogbono soup is a favourite because of its aroma and assorted meats.

It comprises different kinds of nutrients beneficial to the body. However, some people believe ogbono soup is an excellent ovulation booster in the female reproductive system. 

Many controversies have been ascribed to ogbono soup, and this article will explain in detail if it's truly a myth or a matter of fact.

What is Ogbono?

Ogbono, generally known in Nigeria, is African bush mango originating in Africa. Scientifically, it is known as Irvingia gabonensis. 

The seeds are the main ingredients in preparing ogbono soup. The seeds are dried and crushed before preparing the soup. 

Ogbono goes by different monikers. Some of them include wild mango, dika, and mbukpap uyo. 

Nutritional components of ogbono soup

Ogbono soups contain a lot of nutrients necessary to maintain body development. It contains magnesium, calcium, dietary fibre, vitamin C, Vitamin E, potassium, proteins, and healthy fats.

Vitamin C&E

Vitamin C is a no-brainer of all antioxidants. Its benefits are second to none among other vitamins. Vitamin E protects your eggs from free radicals, maintains consistent uterine blood flow, and aids hormone balance.

Potassium 

Potassium is an element that balances electrolytes in the body. It also helps to maintain regular menstrual flow.

Magnesium

Unbeknownst to most women, magnesium accounts for over 200 metabolic processes in the body. It’s essential in promoting the release of eggs from the ovary, which leads to ovulation.

It also takes part in embryo implantation. It's an important nutrient to add when struggling with fertility issues.

Calcium

Calcium is popularly known for teeth and bone development. However, it protects the uterine lining from damage. Implantation occurs here. It's necessary your uterine lining is healthy for implantation.

Benefits of ogbono soup

• Helps relieve constipation
• Lower cholesterol levels
• Support weight loss
• Boosts immune system
• Prevents anaemia 
• Promotes wound healing
• It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties 

Ogbono soup and fertility

Whilst no medical evidence supports the claims of boosting fertility in women, ogbono soup contains other phytochemicals necessary to enhance ovulation and fertility.

So far, it's a reproductive care agent, not a magical fertility treatment or remedy. You need to first go to a fertility clinic for further treatments. 

How to prepare ogbono soup

Ingredients 

Ogbono seeds

Ground pepper

Proteins (meat, fish, panla, ponmo, etc)

Vegetables (Ugwu, bitter leaf, uziza leaf, etc)

Salt to taste

Palm oil

Crayfish 

Process

• In a clean pot, pour in your desired amount of palm oil, add water, pepper, seasoning cubes, crayfish, and salt. Let this come to a boil. 
• After 5 mins, add in your proteins and allow to cook in stock.
• Add in your ogbono and beat accordingly to the texture you want. It is advised not to leave on the drive for too long as it may lose its drawing nature. 
• Serve with any swallow of your choice.
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Ogbono soup is a diverse soup with a lot of nutritional benefits. It is not a fertility treatment and should not be seen as one. Consult a healthcare professional for proper treatments. In the meantime, enjoy your ogbono with a chilled fruit drink. Stay safe!