March is often celebrated as Ghana Month, a time dedicated to embracing all things Ghanaian. During this month, we focus on Eat Ghana and Wear Ghana, which highlights our rich local cuisines and vibrant fashion. The Eat Ghana initiative is closely linked to agriculture, promoting the use of homegrown produce in our traditional dishes.
We will delve into the world of herbal medicines and their health benefits. Ghanaians have a deep-rooted connection with nature, and the significance of herbs in our culture is undeniable. One notable example is Bitter Melon leaves, commonly known as Nyanya, which offer both medicinal and spiritual advantages.
Bitter melon is rich in vitamins A and C, along with other essential nutrients. It contains various compounds that may provide health benefits, although it can also lead to some side effects.
Can help reduce blood sugar
Thanks to its potent medicinal properties, bitter melon has long been used by indigenous populations around the world to help treat diabetes-related conditions. In recent years, several studies confirmed the fruits role in blood sugar control have cancer-fighting properties
Research suggests that bitter melon contains certain compounds with cancer-fighting properties. For example, one older test-tube study showed that bitter melon extract was effective at killing cancer cells of the stomach, colon, lung, and nasopharynx — the area located behind the nose at the back of your throat
Could decrease cholesterol levels
High levels of cholesterol can cause fatty plaque to build up in your arteries, forcing your heart to work harder to pump blood and increasing your risk of heart disease (12Trusted Source).
Several animal studies found that bitter melon may decrease cholesterol levels to support overall heart health.
Spiritually, Nyanya is used to ward off evil from users. Individuals or from homes. Some people put the Nyanya leaves in front of their houses or any part of their houses to guard against bad spirits. In this regard, the Nyanya leaves are used publicly mainly among the Ga-Adangbes, especially by the Wulomei, Chief Priests. It is also used to perform spiritual cleansing and a special bath.
Effect
- When enjoyed in moderation, bitter melon can be a healthy and nutritious addition to your diet.
- However, consuming high amounts of bitter melon or taking bitter melon supplements may be associated with several adverse effects.
- In particular, bitter melon has been linked to diarrhea and abdominal pain. It is also not recommended for women who are pregnant, as its long-term effects on health have not been extensively studied.
- Due to its impact on blood sugar, you should consult with your healthcare provider before eating it if you are taking any blood sugar-lowering medications.
