Atama Leaves Benefits – How to Identify Atama Leaf or Editan Leaf
Atama leaves is a dark green, glossy leaves commonly used to make Abak Atama soup, a delicacy that is popular among the Efik and Ibibio tribes of Akwa Ibom and Cross River States.
Atama leaves, botanical known as Heinsia crinita from the family of Rubiaceae, is a popular ingredient in Nigerian delicacy, particularly in the south south region.
Abak Atama is a hearty Efik soup prepared from Atama leaves and palm nuts (Abak).
However, these leaves are not only delicious, but they are also incredibly nutritious, offering a range of health benefits that both men and women can enjoy.
How to Identify Atama, Afang, and Editan Leaf
Atama, Afang, and Editan leaves are superfood of South South part of Nigeria and they are mainly used in making Nigerian soups.
- Editan botanical name is Lasianthera africana which belongs to the family of Icancinaceae.
- Afang is known as Gnetum africanum,
- Atama botanical name is Heinsia crinita and of the family of Rubiaceae
In the same way that Ukazi/ Okazi leaves are typically shredded, Afang, Editan, or Atama leaves are usually shredded very thinly to make soup.
Nutritional benefits of Atama Leaf
Atama leaf is a rich source of nutrients and antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, iron, calcium, and potassium. You could elaborate on the health benefits of these nutrients, such as improved immunity, stronger bones, and healthier skin.
12 Health Benefits of Atama Leaves – Atama Leaf Benefits
-
Health Benefits of Atama – Boost Red Blood Cell Production
One of the most significant health benefits of Atama leaves is their ability to boost red blood cell production. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body, and Atama leaves are packed with iron, a mineral that is essential for the production of these cells and increase blood flow.
-
Health Benefits of Atama – help to prevent anemia
Iron deficiency is a common problem, particularly among women, and can lead to anemia, fatigue, and weakness. Regular consumption of Atama leaf soup can help to prevent iron deficiency and improve overall health and wellbeing.
-
Health Benefits of Atama – Rich In Antioxidant
Atama leaves are rich in nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like calcium and potassium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and can help to boost your energy levels, making it easier to exercise and stay active.
-
Benefits of Atama – Help Manage Weight Loss
Atama leaves are also an excellent food choice for those looking to manage their weight. These leaves are low in calories and high in fiber, which means they can help to keep you feeling fuller for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
-
Health Benefits of Atama – help regulate blood sugar levels
Another health benefit of Atama leaves is their ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can be a problem for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
Atama leaves contain compounds that have been shown to lower blood sugar levels, making them an ideal food choice for people looking to manage their blood sugar levels naturally.
-
Beneficial for heart health & lower cholesterol level
Atama leaves are also beneficial for heart health, as they contain compounds that can help to lower LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, levels in the blood. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, so consuming Atama leaves regularly can help to protect against this risk.
Additionally, Atama leaves have been shown to increase levels of HDL, or “good” cholesterol, which is essential for maintaining optimal heart health.
- Atama leaf also aids in wound healing.
- Atama leaves increase ovulation, boost desire, and promote conception to promote fertility and pregnancy.
- promotes bowel movement and assists in relieving constipation.
- By boosting sperm production, the soup helps address low sperm count.
- Folic acid is found in atama leaves, which helps prevent spinal Bifida in infants. Atama leaf soup is good for pregnant women, and they ought to be encouraged to consume more of it.
- Reduce Risk of Stroke, Cancer: A diet high in vegetables, such as afang-atama and editan, may lower the chance of type 2 diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
How to Make Atama Soup Recipe
Atama leaves are also incredibly versatile in the kitchen. These leaves can be used to make a range of dishes, including soups, or stews, and pair with choice Fufu swallow.
Read Also >>>>>Black Soup Benefits – Edo Black Soup Health Benefits
Editan Leaf and Fertility
The following are ways that Editan leaf promotes fertility:
- Editan leaf increases sperm count in males
- Editan soup is excellent for pregnant women and even helps with fertility.
- By increasing blood flow to the genitalia, Editan soup increases libido and erection in males
- Editan leaf increases ovulation in women and regulates menstrual periods.
- It is false that the drug Editan helps to reduce uterine fibroids.
Cultivation and harvesting Atama Leaf
Atama leaf is typically grown in tropical regions and requires a warm and humid climate.
How to Store Heinsia Crinite – Atama Leaf Benefits
Even when fully dried, tama leaves can still be used in abak soup because they keep well as dried leaves.
To keep the vegetable’s green color, cold dry it for a few hours in a cool room either as a whole leaf or shredded leaf.
To keep for a long time, place in the freezer or refrigerator in an airtight container.
Challenges of Atama Leaf
Despite its popularity, Atama leaf faces some challenges, such as climate change and deforestation.
Frequently Asked Questions on Atama Leaves
What is the benefit of Atama leaf?
Atama leaves are rich in iron and effective in healing anemia brought on by a lack of iron. The production of red blood cells is aided by it. Atama leaf, like Editan leaf, promotes bowel movement and assists in relieving constipation.
Is Atama leaf bitter?
Atama leaves just like most vegetables have a little bitter taste especially when they are fresh.
How do you cook Atama with water leaves?
- Cooking Instructions
- First is to wash your meat, place in a pot, adding seasoning, stock fish, salt and boil.
- Waterleaf and Atama leaves should be washed and sliced.
- Add palm oil, crayfish, pepper, Into the meat, seasoning, stir and allow to cook.
- Add perewinkle into the pot and allow to boil for 5mins add your vegetables
What is Atama Leaf called in your Language?
In English Atama leaf is refer to “bush apples” by the locals.
- What is Atama leaf in Yoruba
- What is Atama leaf in Igbo
- In Hausa what is Atama leaf name called
Kindly give me feedback in the comment section on the name of Atama leaf in your language
