Health Benefits of Scent Leaf
The scent leaf, botanically known as Ocimum gratissimum, is an aromatic herb that has been introduced extensively across tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Scent leaf is native to Nigeria, Ghana and also some parts of Africa and Asia. This is a homegrown shrub, which is normally found in farm, gardens and are mainly used as a spice for cooking delicacies due to its aromatic taste. It is a vegetable seasoning that gives every meal that delightful, unique taste as well as sweet aroma. Any meal with scent leaf will definitely get your mouth watering, but there is more to its aroma. Scent leaf has immeasurable benefit, it is high in calcium, iron, potassium, carbon and also vitamin “A” which are essential for human health. The oil from scent leave is scientifically proved to possess antiseptic, antibacterial and also anti-fungal activities.
Below are other health benefits of scent leaf:
Eyesight Maintenance
Scent leaf is high in vitamin “A”, which helps with vision. The retina of the eyes requires vitamin A in the form of retinal, which combines with the protein opsin to form rhodopsin.
Enhances Heart Function
Scent leaves contain calcium and magnesium, both of which aid in the reduction of bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) and the increase of blood circulation.
Digestion Aids
Scent leaf can help relieve bloating and also aid in the digestion of meals. Brew scent leaves can help with bowel evacuation and also have a calming effect on the stomach. Heartburn can also be relieved by drinking scent leaves tea.
Lowers blood sugar levels
It has an unrivalled ability to lower blood sugar levels while also protecting the pancreatic islets that produce insulin from damage.
Effective insect repellent
Scent leaves contain larvicidal compounds such as camphor, cineole, and limonene, which are toxic to insects. The leaves can be potted in residential areas to serve as an insect repellent.
Fungal infection treatment
Penicillium notatum, Candida albicans, and Microsporeum gyseum are all susceptible to the antifungal activity of scent leaves. Chloroform extracts of the leaves demonstrated potent antifungal activity against the above- mentioned fungal species. As a result, when crushed and smeared on skin infections, it aids in their treatment.
Diarrheal Treatment
Scent leaf extracts are effective against some pathogenic bacteria that cause diarrhea. As a result, it is possible that scent leaves could be brewed into a tea and used to treat diarrhea.
Encourages good oral hygiene
When used as a chewing stick, the stem of the scent leaf kills bacteria in the mouth and aids in the prevention of bad breath. It can also help to prevent tooth decay. Tea made from scent leaf leaves can be used as a tonic or as a gargle to treat sore throats.
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