Nalta jute 10 Benefits of Jute Leaves

Chorchorus olitorius

Mulukhiyah , Molokhia , Nalta jute, Jute mallow, Saluyot, 

 

Nalta jute

It is called saluyot in the Philippines. 

"Saluyot" are scientifically known as Chorchorus. Olitorous and the English name is JUTE.

 

Jute mallow or Nalita jute is a species of shrub in the family Malvaceae. Together with C. capsularis it is the primary source of jute fiber.

 

Saluyot is rich in vitamins and minerals that promote good health and well-being. It is rich in vitamin A that can provide health benefits for good eyesight. It also contains vitamin E and other antioxidants. It is said to prevent wrinkles and promote youthful-looking skin.

 

What Are Jute Leaves?

Jute leaves (Corchorus olitorius) are a green leafy vegetable that has a host of benefits and can be eaten in so many different ways.

 

They come from a fibrous plant, known as Jute plant. The stem of a jute plant is commonly spun into strong, coarse threads, but the leaves are highly nutritious and consumed in many parts of the world.

 

Many believe jute leaves are native to Egypt and are thus referred to as Egyptian Spinach, although it is popular in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

 

The Many Names Of Jute Leaves

Jute leaves go by various names depending on your country of origin. 

Here are some of the names Jute leaves is known by in different countries:

• Mulukhiyah / Mulukhiyyah - Egypt
• Ewedu - Nigeria
• Saluyot - Philippines
• Ayoyo - Ghana
• Mrenda - Kenya
• Ademe - Togo
• Wild Jute - South Africa
• Molokhia - Middle East
• Lalo - Haiti
• Rau day - Vietnam

Health Benefits

 

Jute leaves are a nutrient-powerhouse, filled with vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants, that are very beneficial to the body. Some of their many benefits include:

 

Anti-aging effects

It is rumored that Cleopatra ate a lot of these leafy greens to preserve her youth and keep her skin healthy!

Jute leaves contain antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which help slow down the signs of aging and promote healthy skin.

 

Improves digestion

Jute leaves help to prevent constipation and improve gut health. It is also used to treat a variety of stomach ailments such as diarrhea, bloating, and gas.

 

Immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects

Jute leaves help boosts the immune system and fights off colds and viruses. It helps treat inflammation in the body because it's a super source of antioxidants. 

 

Healthy Hair, Teeth, and Bones

Jute leaves are very rich in calcium, vitamins A, C, and K. These vitamins add nutrients to the hair, strengthening them from the inside out, and helps get rid of split ends. They also improve the health of teeth and gums and preserves bone density.

 

Weight loss

Jute leaves are rich in fiber and low in calories and carbs. They are great for weight loss and increase the feeling of fullness, which makes you eat less.

 

Insomnia

If you struggle with insomnia, jute leaves will be very beneficial for you. Magnesium is commonly used to treat sleep disorders, and one cup of jute leaves contains 54mg of magnesium.

Jute mallow also helps prevent restless leg syndrome, a condition where a person feels cramps, numbness, and tingling sensations in the leg. Due to its rich iron source, the leaves help mitigate these effects and strengthen the leg muscle.

 

Treatment of Asthma and Breathing Problems

Jute leaves are beneficial for people dealing with breathing issues like asthma. The magnesium it contains relaxes the bronchial muscles and helps regulate breathing.

Are Jute Leaves Edible?

Yes, they are edible and can be eaten raw, cooked, steamed, or pureed. When cooked, the leaves become quite slimy. Though this might be a turn-off for some people, this mucilaginous quality is especially helpful for a lot of digestive issues.

 

Where To Get Them

These leaves can be found in local grocery stores in countries where they are grown natively. If they are not grown anywhere near you, you might be able to find them in African, Asian, or Middle-Eastern stores, in your country.

If you can't get the fresh leaves, the frozen ones work just as well. They also last longer since they are already frozen, and you can store them in the freezer for several months.

How To Preserve Jute Leaves

If you have fresh leaves, they are best stored when dry. First, dry them thoroughly, then wrap them in paper towels and refrigerate them. They should remain fresh for one to two weeks. 

 

You can also blend them in a little water and freeze them in an airtight container or Ziploc bag. This is one of the best ways to preserve jute leaves for long-term storage.

How To Cook With Jute Leaves

Jute leaves have a somewhat bitter taste when fresh. They are gelatinous and have an extremely slippery texture. The longer they cook, the slimier and thicker they get.

Jute leaves can be cooked in various ways, which brings out their delectable taste and flavor.

 

In Nigeria, they are used to make a 'draw soup' eaten with fufu. This delicious and nutritious soup is known as Ewedu Soup.

Jute leaves can also be used as a soup thickener. In Kenya, they are eaten with ugali, which is a staple in the country. In Japan, these leaves can be used as a coffee or tea substitute.

 

In Egypt, jute leaves are used to make Molokhia (Mulukhia), a hearty, leafy stew eaten with rice or bread.

 

 

10 Benefits of Jute Leaves

The Jute plant is one of nature’s best gifts. It’s a diverse plant with various uses which keeps on giving. The Jute plant is commonly known for producing jute fibres. Jute fibres are used to make jute bags, rags and even sacks. In ancient times, there were also clothes made out of jute fibres.

 

Why not also read: The jute leaves are not known to many but, they are most likely the most beneficial part of the plant. They are used as a source of food in different countries. They make great soups and add a distinct flavour to the food. In some countries, the jute leaves are also known as Saluyot, Ewedu, or Lalo depending on where they are cultivated and cooked. These leaves not only make great ingredients but they have also been found to have numerous medicinal benefits which are what we are going to focus on today.

1. Protects eye health

Most eye diseases are a result of poor diet and nutrient deficiencies. Some of the nutrients that are linked with improving eye health and preventing eye diseases and disorders include Vitamin B6 and folate among other vitamins. Jute leaves contain 0.0496mg of vitamin B6 which is over 30% of the recommended daily value. Regular consumption of jute leaves can help in slowing the onset of some eye diseases including age-related muscular degeneration.

1. Jute leaves are rich in antioxidants

Jute leaves are rich in Vitamins E, A and C. These three nutrients are potent antioxidants that protect the cells from free radicals. The antioxidants in these leaves can also help to improve vision and fertility among other benefits.

1. Fights off Colds and Flu

Vitamin C which is abundant in jute leaves is essential in helping the immune system ward off colds and viruses.

Why not also read: What Are Plastic Bags Made Of?

In addition to fighting colds, vitamin C can also keep you from suffering further complications like lung infections and pneumonia.

1. Improve digestion

Jute leaves are rich in fibre. Dietary fibre is one of the major elements that help in regulating the digestive process. By regularly eating jute leaves, you can avoid constipation, bulk up stool and speed up digestion. Having a fibre-rich diet also helps to increase the uptake efficiency of nutrients and it reduces symptoms like cramping and gas.

1. Treats inflammation

One of the most celebrated medical benefits of jute leaves is their ability to battle inflammation in the body. Because they contain a variety of antioxidants, eating jute leaves can help to protect against damage caused by inflammation. It is also believed that jute leaves have anti-inflammatory properties. In a study conducted in 2015, it was found that the jute plant to have properties that can treat inflammation. By eating jute leaves regularly, you can prevent inflammation.

1. Promotes weight loss

Jute leaves have a variety of properties that are critical in helping manage body weight. Their high fibre content is essential in improving digestion and keeping you feeling full for longer. Research has also shown that these copper-rich leaves can help to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase beneficial cholesterol. Jute leaves have about 0.222mg of copper which can dramatically help to reduce chances of cardiovascular diseases as well as promote a healthy weight.

1. Improves sleeping partners

For people suffering from sleeping disorders like sleep apnea and insomnia, jute leaves might be of help. Jute leaves are rich in magnesium which is the mineral that helps to treat and improve such conditions. Magnesium aids in the release of hormones that relax and soothe the nerves. By increasing the magnesium intake, you can improve your sleep quality for restful and uninterrupted sleeping patterns.

1. Supports cell growth and skin health

The skin and cells require vitamin A which aids in promoting wounds healing and regrowth of skin. Vitamin A is essential in the growth of all epithelial cells both externally and internally and it also helps to prevent skin cancer. Jute leaves have an abundance of Vitamin A. eating them regularly can help prevent various skin conditions like poor complexion, acne, lines and wrinkles keeping your skin looking young and healthy. The Vitamin A contained in jute leaves also helps to promote healthy growth of hair as well.

1. Maintains healthy teeth and gums

The benefits of eating jute leaves extend to the teeth and gums. They contain calcium which helps in keeping the jaw bone strong and robust. A healthy jaw bone keeps your teeth tightly fit and makes it harder for bad bacteria to grow. To keep your teeth and gums from giving you any trouble, you should maintain a calcium-rich diet which should include daily consumption of jute leaves, especially for young children.

1. Improves restless leg syndrome

Restless leg syndrome is a common condition usually caused by iron deficiency. Because jute leaves are rich in iron, eating them regularly can help to improve the condition. Research shows that the jute plants contain up to 2.73mg of iron which is more than a third of the daily recommended value. Eating jute leaves can also help to curb muscle spasms which are also considered to be caused by a lack of enough iron. Jute leaves are not only a delicacy in many countries. They are also a superfood with numerous health and medical benefits that promote the general well-being of the body. If you’re looking to try new and healthy foods, you should consider adding jute leaves to your diet. They are available fresh and dried and both varieties have the same benefits.