HEALTH BENEFITS OF EGUSI
Egusi
is super rich with essential nutrients that the body requires for effective
functioning. Egusi seed is botanically known as Citrullus colocynthis and it
belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. Here are 10 interesting health benefits
you enjoy by consuming this soup:
1. EGUSI HAS ANTI-DIABETIC PROPERTIES
Researchers
attest that every part of the egusi melon plant possesses anti-diabetic
properties. This is attributed to the insulinotropic effects of the plant.
2: EGUSI BOOSTS APPETITE
Egusi
is rich with vitamin B1. Vitamin B1 is very essential in boosting our appetite.
3: EGUSI HAS ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
PROPERTIES
Research
reveals that the methanol extract of egusi significantly inhibited serotonin,
carrageenan, and prostaglandin E1-induced paw oedema. Researchers generally
agree that egusi is suitable for use as an anti-inflammatory agent.
4: EGUSI HAS ANTICANCER
PROPERTIES
Researchers
studied the antiproliferative impact of cucurbitacin glycosides obtained from
egusi leaves. This study was carried out in human breast cancer cell growth.
Bitter melon leaves were extracted and cucurbitacin B/E glycosides were then
isolated from the extract. The results of the study showed that cucurbitacin glycosides
exhibit therapeutic effects against breast cancer cells.
5: EGUSI HAS ANTI-BACTERIAL
PROPERTIES
A team
of researchers studied the antibacterial effects of egusi leaf. Tests of the
extracts showed the presence of flavonoids, phenols and tannins as the active
components. The results showed that egusi is suitable for treating ailments
caused by bacteria and organisms.
6: EGUSI AIDS DIGESTION
Due to
the presence of dietary fibre and vitamin B1 (Thiamine) in egusi melon, it is
useful for facilitating easy digestion of food.
7: EGUSI HAS ANTI-ARTHRITIC
PROPERTIES
Melon
fruit possess significant anti-arthritic properties. This is attributed to its
rich constituent of phytochemicals such as flavonoids. As a result, it can be
used for treating rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease
symptomized by chronic inflammation of the joints, stiffness, swelling, pain
and redness in the joints.
8: EGUSI HELPS US MAINTAIN
HEALTHY SKIN
The
vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) and niacin in egusi help to maintain healthy skin.
Oil extracted from egusi seeds can be used for producing local soap and pomade
for dermatological care.
9: EGUSI CAN SERVE AS LIVESTOCK
FODDER
The
shells of egusi can be used as poultry litter. The leaves and the gourds can also
serve as livestock fodders.
10: EGUSI TREATS BOILS AND
CARBUNCLES
Boils
and carbuncles are inflamed, red, painful lumps that can develop on any part of
the skin. Research shows that the fruit and root of the egusi plant can be
mashed and mixed with water. This mixture can then be applied to boils,
carbuncles and pimples.
Egusi
Soup
Egusi soup is one
of the most common Nigerian soups with different ways of making it. This recipe
is tested and trusted. The soup is fried to achieve the grainy look and thickness
of the soup instead of the all lumped up together kind.
The fried pepper base can be done in advance so you can cut down cooking time.
Enjoy.
The fried pepper base can be done in advance so you can cut down cooking time.
Enjoy.
Ingredients
Boils
and carbuncles are inflamed, red, painful lumps that can develop on any part of
the skin. Research shows that the fruit and root of the egusi plant can be
mashed and mixed with water. This mixture can then be applied to boils,
carbuncles and pimples.
1.Meats of choice
2.Stockfish
3.Dried fish
4.Crayfish
5.Egusi
6.Fresh pepper (ground & parboiled)
then fried in Palm oil
7.Palm oil
8.Crayfish
9.Onion
10.
cube Seasoning
11.
to taste Salt
12.
Ugu or Bitterleaf or Uziza leaf (depending on veg of choice)
Steps
1. Boil the meats, stockfish and dried fish
together with 2 knorr beef seasoning cubes, onions and salt to taste. Get a
rich stock and set aside.
2. Place a clean, dry pot on fire and allow
to heat up. Add two cooking spoons of palm oil and allow to heat up.
3. Mix the egusi with water and get a runny
paste. The thickness of thick yoghurt is what you should aim to achieve. Not
too thick, not too runny.
4. Pour the egusi paste into the hot oil on
fire and that's where the work begins. Start to stir. You must keep stirring so
it doesn't burn. Fry it till all the water you added to the egusi is gone. You
should aim to achieve a grainy texture like sand.
5. At this time, add your parboiled fried
pepper and continue frying with the egusi for about 3-5mins.
6. Add the meats and stock into the frying
mixture on fire, add your blended crayfish and stir. Correct seasoning if
necessary.
7. Add your vegetables at this point and
allow to heat up for a few secs. Stir together and turn off cooker.
8. Your egusi soup is ready to be eaten
with any swallow of your choice.
Contact:
johnaiyedun4real@yahoo.com
+2348074926468.
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