Waterleaf (Talinum fruticosum)

Waterleaf Amazing Health Benefit

Waterleaf is native to West Africa, Central America, the Caribbean, and Mexico where its cultivation is believed to have started before migrating to other tropical areas like some parts of North and South America, and Asia.

In many places where it is grown, it has names allocated to it which include Lagos bologi (Nigeria), Philippine spinach (Philippines), Surinam Purslane, Ceylon spinach, Florida spinach and more.

Waterleaf is best cultivated during the rainy season and possesses a short lifespan which could be less than 4 months.

• Cognitive ability: Waterleaf improves brain function and blood flow, prevents brain tissue death, and strengthens brain muscles and tissues.
• Blood cells: Waterleaf supplements the protein and iron in the blood, helps in pumping and supplying blood, and treats anaemia.
• Heart health: Waterleaf regulates heart activity, reduces the risk of heart diseases and stroke, and lowers the cholesterol levels in the blood.
• Infections and diseases: Waterleaf has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that fight against bacteria, fungi and inflammation in the body. It can treat some diseases such as diarrhoea, dysentery, and malaria.
• Promotes Eye HealthVegetables are essential for overall health which includes the eye as well, as they mostly contain vitamin A which functions to improve eye health. Waterleaf contains vitamin A which helps to enhance vision in poor light and also helps in the improvement of the skeletal tissue and the skin due to its content of vitamin A1 known as Retinol.Vitamin A can help in providing the eye with the necessary nutrients which it needs to prevent some of the eye-related conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration and more. Therefore, the intake of waterleaf in the right amount will result in a healthy eye.Waterleaf also contains vitamin C which helps to maintain a healthy eye by preventing the retina from damage which might be caused by free radicals and other health conditions that affect the eyes like dry eyes, conjunctival haemorrhages, and even cataracts

  

How to use the Waterleaf Plant

Waterleaf is a vegetable that is known by many names, including Ceylon spinach, Florida spinach, Surinam Purslane, and cariru. It is crunchy, tangy, and nutritious, and can be eaten cooked or raw. Here are some ways to use Waterleaf:

• Soups and stews: Waterleaf can be added to soups and stews to add flavour and nutrition. It can be used in place of spinach or other leafy greens.
• Salads: Waterleaf can be used in salads to add a crunchy texture and tangy flavour. It pairs well with other vegetables and fruits.
• Smoothies: Waterleaf can be blended into smoothies for a nutrient-packed drink. It pairs well with other fruits and vegetables.
• Stir-fries: Waterleaf can be added to stir-fries for a quick and easy meal. It pairs well with other vegetables and meats.
• Pizza: Waterleaf can be used as a pizza topping for a healthy and flavorful twist on a classic dish.

When buying Waterleaf, look for fresh leaves that are dark green in colour. Avoid leaves that are yellow or wilted. After waterleaf is harvested, it can be eaten immediately, dried, or kept in a plastic bag in a refrigerator to maintain freshness