Wednesday, November 8, 2023

The Health Benefits of Aidan Fruits and Their Medicinal Uses

 Introduction


Nature has always provided us with a plethora of gifts that are not only delightful to our senses but also beneficial for our health. One such gift is the Aidan fruit (Tetrapleura tetraptera), a tropical wonder known for its remarkable health benefits and extensive medicinal uses. This fruit, native to West Africa, has been a part of traditional medicine for centuries and is gradually gaining recognition in the modern world for its exceptional properties.

  1. Nutrient-Rich Powerhouse

Aidan fruits are rich in essential nutrients that contribute to their health-boosting properties. These small, dark-brown pods contain a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are a source of vitamins A and C, which play a crucial role in supporting the immune system, maintaining healthy skin, and protecting against various diseases. The high mineral content, particularly potassium, helps regulate blood pressure and maintains proper bodily functions.

  1. Antioxidant Properties

The Aidan fruit is packed with antioxidants, including flavonoids and polyphenols. These compounds help protect the body against free radical damage, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Antioxidants also play a key role in preserving youthful and healthy skin by combating oxidative stress.

  1. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Inflammation is the root cause of many chronic diseases, and Aidan fruit contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory disorders. This natural remedy can be a valuable addition to your diet, potentially reducing the need for pharmaceutical interventions

  1. Cardiovascular Health

Consuming Aidan fruits may contribute to improved cardiovascular health. The antioxidants in these fruits help reduce cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and prevent the formation of arterial plaques. These actions collectively reduce the risk of heart disease and promote overall cardiovascular well-being.

  1. Anti-Bacterial and Antifungal Properties

In traditional medicine, Aidan fruit has been used to combat various infections due to its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can be applied topically for skin conditions and taken internally to help the body fight off harmful pathogens.

  1. Digestive Aid

Aidan fruit is known to have digestive benefits. It can alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and constipation, making it a valuable addition to your diet, especially after a heavy meal. Its natural digestive properties can help maintain a healthy gut.

  1. Pain Relief

The fruit's extracts have been traditionally used for pain relief, including toothaches and headaches. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these pain-relieving properties, Aidan fruit has demonstrated potential as a natural analgesic.

  1. Traditional Medicinal Uses

Aidan fruit has been a staple in traditional African medicine for centuries. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including malaria, diabetes, infertility, and even mental health issues. While more research is needed to validate these claims, the fruit's long history of use in traditional medicine suggests its potential as a natural remedy.

Conclusion

Aidan fruit, with its impressive nutrient profile and various health benefits, is a remarkable gift from nature that should not be overlooked. Whether used as a dietary supplement or integrated into traditional medicine practices, Aidan fruit has the potential to improve overall well-being and provide a natural alternative to conventional treatments. However, it's important to consult with healthcare professionals and nutritionists before adding Aidan fruit to your regimen, especially if you have existing medical conditions or are taking medications. As we continue to explore the potential of this tropical wonder, the Aidan fruit may become a more widely recognized and utilized resource in the world of natural health and wellness.

Saturday, October 1, 2022

Aluguntugui Boost Immune System and Kills Cancer Cell.

 Soursop Fruit 

Soursop popularly called Alaguntugui by Ghanaians is the fruit of Annona Muricata, a broadleaf, flowering, evergreen tree. It is native to the tropical regions of the Americans and the Caribbean and widely propagated. It is the same genus Annona as Cherimoya in the Annonaceae family. Most of the Ghanaians enjoy eating the fruit and other parts use in traditional herbal medicine. The fruit and the leaves of the tree are for medicinal purposes such as digestive ailments general pains, hypertension, inflammation, fever, dry cough, and asthma.
A tea is made from the leaves has been reported for insomnia and nervous disorders but should not be used in small children.
The seed can be toxic and are used to make a liquid hair wash to kill lice, but caution should be taken as the liquid is very irritating to the eyes

Health Benefits of Eating Soursop Fruit 

Boost Immune System (High in Vitamin C)  
One whole Soursop fruit contains 215% of recommended daily allowance of Vitamin C  
The vitamin strengthens your immune system, improving the ability to defend against pathogens and helps heal wounds faster. 
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues. It's involved in many body functions, including formation of collagen, absorption of iron, the proper functioning of the immune system, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teethe  
It also promote the development of free radicals, which can help to protect your skin and cell from environmental oxidation damage
Healthy Digestion 
One whole Soursop fruit contains around 83% of your recommended daily allowance of Fiber, which is a vital nutrient for your digestive health. Fiber helps to prevent constipation.
  • Normalizes bowel movements. Dietary fiber increases the weight and size of your stool and softens it. Helps maintain bowel health, Lowers cholesterol levels, helps control blood sugar levels, aids in achieving healthy weight and helps you live longer.
Stabilize blood pressure
High blood pressure may lead to serious health issues like heart disease and heart attack. A contributing factor to high blood pressure is sodium intake. One whole soursop fruit offer approximately one-third to one-half of your recommended daily allowance of Potassium. Potassium is necessary for the normal functioning of all cells. It regulates the heartbeat, ensures proper function of the muscles and nerves, and is vital for synthesizing protein and metabolizing carbohydrates.
Fight and Prevent Cancer 
Potential anti-carcinogenic effects, while most research is limited to test tube studies, Soursop may be beneficial in helping to fight and prevent cancer. One studies found that a soursop extra could reduce the size of breast cancer tumors and kill cancer cells, can stop the formation of leukemia cells.
Fight against Bacteria.
Soursop may provide antibacterial   effects. One study found that an extract may be able to kill many different types of bacteria including strains that causes gum disease and cavities. Another study found that soursop extract may help to fight cholera and staphylococcus bacteria. These were test tube studies the results are promising and further research needed.
Possible side effects of eating soursop fruit
While soursop can offer significant health benefits, it does have some potential drawbacks. Studies have shown that the fruit and tea made from the leaves may cause symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease. Studies also indicate that it may interact with high blood pressure medication or medications for diabetes and liquid from soursop may irritates the eyes, caution is needed.

Reference
WebMD Editorial Contributors
Medically Reviewed by Dan Brennan, MD, September 19th,2020

Wikipedia
"Plant Name Details Annonaceae Aluguntugui L."International Plant Names IndexInternational Organization for Plant Information (IOPI). Retrieved 2008-04-18.

Disclaimer: The content and information provided on this website, the blog, videos, or other materials (collectively referred to as “Our Site”) are for educational purposes only.
 


Thursday, August 4, 2022

TURKEY BERRY-(KWAHO NSUSUA)

                                                 AMAZING HEALTH BENEFITS OF TURKEY BERRY
(KWAHO NSUSUA)
Article written by Dr Kutin
Agona Duakwa, Central, Region.
Ghana.
What is Turkey Berry ?
Turkey Berry is a type of spiny, flowering shrub that produces large cluster of yellow-green pea-packed berries .The scientific name of Turkey Berry is Solanum torvum, it belongs to nightshade family of plant. Other common name in Akan language is 'Kwahu Nsusua' or Abeduero. It is believed to have originated from Central and South America, but they spread easily much like weeds and can be found all over the world, including Asia, pacific Island, America and Africa. Turkey berry [Kwahu Nsusua] is used as both a food and herbal remedy for countless physical ailment. 
Science Behind Turkey Berry.
.Research done on 8th February, 2022. by University of Cape Coast on the nutritional value in the Turkey Berry indicate that Protein-2.32g, Iron-7.6mg, Calcium 22mg, Vitamin A-70ng, Vitamin C 2.68mg, Dietary fiber 3.9g, carbohydrates 7.03g etc. Also used for their medicinal properties such as aiding in the production of new red blood cell, and boosting overall immunity against common cold and fly.
 Why should you eat Turkey Berry? Turkey Berry contain a lot of room and so very good for treating anemia, treat diabetes, protect  against cancer, treat kidney disease, prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke, regulate menstruation, weight gain, treatment of phlegm and mucus, treat indigestion and diarrhea, prevent intestinal worm, may protect Against Heavy metal Toxicity. 
Turkey Berry mixed with milk. Research conducted by Opera News company Ltd in 2021, on "turkey berry mix with milk". Both Turkey berry and milk join their forces together to help produce ample red blood cell and as well as aid in effective blood circulation in the body which does not put pressure in the heart. Both collaborate to eradicate Anemia the prevent any disease associated with the blood and the cardiovascular system. It is very efficacious and effective.


Safety, and Precaution and Possible Side of the Turkey Berry
All the parts of the Turkey Berry plant including its root, leave, stem and fruits are used for medicinal, horticultural and homemade culinary purposes throughout the world. Like other nightshades, turkey berry contain a class of compound called glycoalkaloids, When consumed in large dose can cause adverse digestive and neurological symptoms such as nausea, stomach ache, diarrheas, and confusion. There isn't robust scientific evidence regarding the safety of turkey berry among pregnancy and breastfeeding women.
Conclusion
This indigenous plant has saved the lives of the people in the world. To live long life is to clean the blood vessels which put less pressure on the heart. Turkey Berry has spiritual benefits as well. The title of this review refers to the popular phrase 'Let thy food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food', often ascribed to Hippocrates (400 BC), and used to emphasize the importance of nutrition to prevent or cure disease.
Reference;
Opera News CO. Ltd news published in 15/08/2021 on Turkey Berry mixed with milk.
University of Cape Coast, researched on Nutritional Value on Turkey Berry published on 08/02/2022.
WHO, Nutritional Value on Plant of nightshades.
  
 



Monday, August 1, 2022

Pure water Safety

Pure water safety                                       Sachet Water Syndrome 

                                             (Pure water)
Article written by: Dr. Francis Cash Kutin, 
Agona Duakwa.


What is sachet water ?
Sachet water is packaged sealed water in 500mL polyethylene plastic bags which heat-sealed on either end. The sachet water has become the primary source of drinking water in part of global south and popularly in Africa.


Source of the water for production of sachet water
Most of the Sachet Water Companies source water from the well, borehole, pipes, ocean, rivers and stored water in poly-tanks for production. Different water sources have different purity levels. Hygienic factors and environmental pollution turn to affect purity of the source of water. Prior to packaging, the water goes through a number of treatment processes, mainly filtration in an attempt to make it cleaner and safer for consumption.


Is it good to drink sachet water (pure water)?
A person can survive for about a month without food, about a week without water and less than five minutes without air, constitute the three main necessities of life. 
Many studies have been done since sachet water was discovered in 1994 by Brattleboro Vermont, for the world works in remote and undeserved regions of the developing countries that lack sustainable clean safe drinking water. Most pure water is not safe for drinking. Sachet water have been reported to contain bacteria such as Bacillus sp.,pseudomonas sp and oocysts of Cryptosporidium sp. The quality packaged of water assessed in Ghana showed some level of microbial contamination. The results of the study indicated that bottled water has lower microbial load than sachet water. E. Coli, clostridium perfringens spore and fecal streptococcus were the most common isolated microbe from the package water.
Microbial Research done and published online 2019 by National Library of Medicine

   “(https://www.idexx.com/pdf/en.us./water/qt97mpntable.pdf).


Does drinking pure water causes Typhoid ?
Typhoid is a bacteria infection that can spread throughout the body, affecting many organs, it can cause serious complications and can be fatal. People who drink contaminated water or eat food washed in contaminated water can develop typhoid fever. Coalition Against Typhoid in Ghana estimated that Ghana is a typhoid-endemic country. The Global Burden of Disease study estimated that in 2017, there were at least: 69506 typhoid cases, 973 typhoid deaths and 88,981 disability-adjusted life-years lost to typhoid. The findings of this investigation showed that a large percentage of the popular sachet-packed water is microbiological unsafe for human consumption, constituting potential health risk, and this can be linked to the increasing incidence of typhoid fever among other food and water-borne infections


Conclusion:

Government must be determined to increase resource allocations to relevant regulatory agencies to ensure adequate monitoring and enforcement of production, transportation and storage of sachet water in Ghana.


 Reference: 

1. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development

Microbiology Department, University of Agriculture, Abeokuta P.M.B 2240.

Pure water syndrome: Bacteriological Quality of Sachet Packed drinking Water Sold in Nigeria.


2.WHO. Toxicological Evaluation of Certain Food Contaminants. 28th Report of the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives, 1984: WHO Food  Additives Series No. 19. World Health Organization, Geneva.  

Saturday, July 30, 2022

The Emergency Contraceptives and its' side Effects.


 

What is Emergency Contraceptive Pills ?

Is an oral emergency contraceptive. It may help to prevent a pregnancy if taken within 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse or failure of a contraceptive method. EC Pills contains a synthetic luteal hormone-like active substance, Levonorgestrel.

 

When can EC pills be used and how effective is the preparation?

It can be used on emergency situation only on any day or hours and it is suitable as an emergency measure.Emergency Contraceptive Pill does not prevent a pregnancy in every instance. It has been estimated that EC Pill prevent 85% of expected pregnancies.

Efficacy appears to decline with time after intercourse 95% within 24 hours, 85% between 24 and 48 hours , 58% if used between 48 and 72 hours. Efficacy after 72 hours is unknown.

If you are uncertain about the timing of unprotected intercourse or if you have had unprotected sex more than 72 hours earlier in the same menstrual cycle, conception may have occurred. Treatment with EC Pill following the second act of intercourse may therefore be ineffective in preventing pregnancy. EC Pill is not effective as a conventional regular method of contraception, you should consider long term methods of contraception such as contraceptive implant (lasts up to 3 years) or IUS (up to 5 years) or IUD, also called coil (5 to 10 years)

 

When should EC Pill not to be taken

Emergency Contraceptive Pill should not be taken in case of Hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients of the preparation and when there is evidence of conception.

 

Special warnings and precautions for the use EC Pills.

If pregnancy occurs after treatment with EC Pill, the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy should be considered. The use of EC Pill should be considered in patients with severe hepatic dysfunction.

Severe malabsorption diseases such as Chron’s disease, might impair the efficacy of EC Pill.

Repeated administration within a menstrual cycle is not advisable because of the possibility of disturbance of the cycle.

Notice: after you have taken the EC Pill , it is important that you make an appointment to see your doctor to ask him or her about regular methods of contraception that are suitable for you.

Medicines that limit the efficacy of the EC Pills: concomitantly may enhance the metabolism of the active ingredient of the preparation, may include; medicines to treat epilepsy, fungal infections, antibiotics, as well as herbal medicines containing St. John’s Wort.

 

Does Administration of Emergency Contraceptive Pill causes Menstrual Changes ?

.According the packages insert, it can causes changes to your menstrual cycle such as heavy flow or lighter bleeding or getting your menses earlier or later than normal. If your menses is late by more than 5 days or you have it at the normal time, it is abnormal or if you suspect pregnancy, feeling sick nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness etc, you should contact your doctor.

 

Is it safe to take Morning After Pills or Plan B or Emergency Contraceptive Pills Regularly ?

You can take EC Pill more than once a month, but we do not recommend using it as a main form of birth control, not only because you will have have irregular cycles.

There is no evidence that taking the morning after pill, even in multiple times, will affect your fertility in the future or make your womb infertile.

 

World Health Organization: recommendations for provision of emergency contraception

All women and girls at risk of an unintended pregnancy have a right to access emergency contraception and these methods should be routinely included within all national family planning programs. Moreover, emergency contraception should be integrated into health care services for populations most at risk of exposure to unprotected sex, including post-sexual assault care and services for women and girls living in emergency and humanitarian settings.


Exploring the Health Benefits of Lantana Leaves

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