Okra, also known as lady's finger, has been trending on different social media platforms, with women praising the vegetable.
A majority of Kenyan women who eat okra and drink its water said it has many benefits. Many took to social media to share some of the benefits of the vegetable, claiming it boosts libido and fertility.
According to an article by Muhammad Javed, okra water'slady's potential to enhance libido might be attributed to its nutrients that promote blood flow and support the body's natural arousal mechanisms.
Okra can be prepared in different ways, including frying, roasting or boiling.
Well, TUKO.co.ke shares some of the five benefits of okra.
Okra contains vitamin C an antioxidant which helps strengthens the immune system and helps protect against illnesses and infections.
According to phytopharmajournal.com, okra is also used to improve cardiovascular disease. It reduces serum cholesterol and, therefore, decreases the chance of heart disease.
The use of okra is an efficient method to manage the body's cholesterol level. Okra also contains pectin, which can help reduce high cholesterol simply by modifying the creation of bile within the intestines.
Okra also contains minerals like Calcium and Magnesium which help in balancing hormones.
According to Healthline, folate (vitamin B9) is an important nutrient for pregnant women. It helps lower the risk of a neural tube defect, which affects the brain and spine of a developing fetus.
Okra is a good source of folate, with 1 cup (100 grams) providing 15% of a woman's daily needs for this nutrient.
According to several online reports, okra contains antioxidants called polyphenols, including vitamins A and C, which help fight cancer.
According to WebMD.co.m, okra also contains a protein called lectin, which may inhibit cancer cell growth in humans.
Women who have been regularly taking okra water attested that it works perfectly on the skin.
The antioxidants found in okra help improve the skin texture, leaving one with glowing skin.
Ndtv.com also reported that consuming okra helps prevent age-related diseases. Okra, which is rich in vitamin A, enhances good vision.
Women have attested to using okra water as a weight loss remedy, though the results take long to effect.
According to Ndtv.com, because of its high fibre content, okra prevents one from overeating and aids in weight management.
Apart from boosting libido, many believe that:
TUKO.co.ke reached out to gynaecologist Dr Kibe to ascertain if the myths about okra were true, and he said:
"It's a very good vegetable, but it's on the subject of pharmacognosy. Okra has good benefits, but I'm not an authority on that."
MC Jessy talked of the viral okra water women on the internet admitted they take for health benefits.
Jessy noted that it was a scam, warning men against associating with ladies who use okra water.
The comedian-turned-politician, who was travelling to Australia, said that women who used the okra water were walking red flags
Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
US Seeks To Break Up Live Nation, Ticketmaster Over Alleged Monopoly
Ezekiel Otuoma's Wife Moves Obinna To Tears As She Vows To Stick By Him: "Sometimes Nafeel Nikimbie"
Meru: Talented 6-Year-Old Girl Awarded Scholarship For Impressive DJ Skills
Okra is known for its many health benefits.
Okra-nutrition-facts-livestrong
5 Benefits of Okra Plant to Human Beings, Especially Women - Tuko.co.ke