They say you are what you eat. This saying couldn’t be any more true for people living with diabetes. When it comes to maintaining normal blood sugar levels, a healthy diet is extremely important. Longevity Spinach, also known as Gynura Procumbens, is a vegetable that has recently become exceedingly popular in the U.S. This plant that was originally found in China, Southeast Asia, and Africa has been proven to have high medicinal value. Lately, people have started to grow this plant in their very own backyards. Due to all of its benefits, it’s easy to see why the plant has gained so much popularity in households all over the world. Research shows that Gynura lowers blood sugar levels and can be used as a successful treatment for diabetes. Specialists have used this plant for over a decade to treat diabetes in African regions. Recently, it has gained much significance in scientific circles.
The plant can also help lower levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body. Research shows that along with lowering sugar levels, the ethanol extract of the plant’s leaves has anti-hyperlipidemic effects as well. Having low cholesterol levels can protect the body from heart and liver diseases, ensuring maximum health. Another benefit is weight loss, considering the plants fat lowering properties. Evidently, Gynura is the complete health package for a diabetic patient.
Not only is Gynura considered a natural treatment for diabetes and for lowering cholesterol, but it is also great for lowering high blood pressure. High blood pressure can cause hypertension, which could be fatal if left untreated. Results suggest Gynura may prevent and treat hypertension by increasing nitric oxide production in the blood vessels. Nitric oxide dilates blood vessels and allows for a smoother blood flow, making the body happy again. Gynura is used as the perfect alternative to taking tablets.
Gynura has also become famous for its anti-inflammatory effects. It contains many bioactive constituents, alkaloids and steroids. These steroids and alkaloids found in the plant play a vital role in warding off inflammation. Practitioners have used Gynura to help treat rheumatism for many years. Rheumatism is a disease which causes inflammation and pain in the joints or muscles. Because of the anti-inflammatory effects of this plant, it makes perfect sense to use the plant as a treatment for this disease. So, making Gynura a part of your everyday life will allow you to see these effects for yourself!
Longevity spinach grows well either in the shade or full sun, but semi-shade is preferred as it tends to grow better. It can be slowly adapted to grow in full sun, so long as the plant’s roots don’t dry out. In the spring, the plant rapidly regenerates from the root system. It grows as an annual vegetable or can be kept potted inside during the winter months. It only requires a slight amount of care and is easily harvested by pinching off the end leaves.
There are tons of different ways you can consume this plant. Its leaves have a mild raw taste so they can be crushed and put in smoothies, soups, or teas. They can also be used in sandwiches or in salads as a healthy snack. The most effective way is to eat it raw, but the possibilities are endless. Basically use it any way you would use any other leafy green and you can enjoy all these health perks!
As always, check with your doctor before starting any new items into your diet.