When a woman gets pregnant, a lifestyle change is usually in order. It won’t be easy to give up the things your taste buds have loved all these years, but some foods will have to go during your pregnancy. If you’re wondering whether you can still eat scent leaf in pregnancy, then there are things you need to learn about this aromatic herb.
What is scent leaf?
Scent leaf is an aromatic spice used in soups and stews. It grows in temperate regions like Nigeria. The botanical name of scent leaf is Ocimum Gratissimum. The Efiks call it ntong, the Igbos call it nchanwu, and the Yorubas call it efirin.
It is easy to grow, which makes it a common feature of backyard gardens in Nigerian homes. The method of cultivating scent leaf is quite simple. You can plant the stem and it will sprout within two weeks.
Uses of scent leaf
Scent leafs go well with soups like egusi soup, black soup, and okro soup, etc. It is an important ingredient in goat meat pepper soup, chicken pepper soup and beef pepper soup. Some people won’t enjoy stews unless there’s scent leaf in it.
Fresh scent leaf is almost similar in smell to basil. You can also preserve this herb by drying it and using the dried version.
Nutritional value
You need to know the properties of this herb if you are planning to eat scent leaf in pregnancy.
Scent leaf is rich in, Calcium, Iron, Phosphorus, Vitamin A
and potassium.
Health benefits
People love the taste and smell of scent leaf, and surprisingly it has so many health benefits for both men and women? Here are some amazing benefits of scent leaf:
1. Indigestion and other stomach issues
Scent leaf calms even the most troubled stomachs. You can steep a few leaves in hot water and make tea. This tea can help relieve symptoms of diarrhea, constipation and indigestion.
2. Scent leaf lowers blood sugar
There are studies that show the efficacy of scent leaf in lowering high blood sugar. People suffering from Non-Insulin dependent diabetes (NID diabetes) can use this herb to lower blood sugar and protect the pancreas.
3. Antifungal and antibacterial properties
Scent leaf has antibacterial and antifungal properties. One of the reasons this herb is potently antibacterial is because it is a fly repellent. Houseflies and bottle flies are known to carry germs, but these flies will not go near areas where there’s scent leaf because of the strong smell.
4. Anti-inflammatory properties
Scent leaf is rich in calcium, making it great for bone health. Regular consumption of the herb can help prevent osteoporosis and bone degeneration. People suffering from arthritis can benefit from adding scent leaf to their meals or brewing it as tea.
5. Boosts male fertility
The benefits of scent leaf in pregnancy start way before conception. It contains eugenol and epigenin fenkhona, which help to strengthen erection in men. It can also help men who suffer from premature ejaculation. It boosts sperm production and overall count.
6. Promotes eye health
The vitamin A in scent leaf makes it great for eye health. You can cure conjunctivitis or Apollo, reduce high eye pressure and prevent night blindness.
7. Scent leaf takes care of bad breath
Want to head out of the house after eating something pungent? Chew scent leaf and freshen bad breath. People suffering from halitosis can manage this condition by making the herb a regular part of their diet.
8. Reverses the harmful effects of smoking
Smoking causes long-term damage. The Federal Ministry of Health warns that smokers are liable to die young. People who have quit smoking can use scent leaf to get back on the track to good health.
9. Scent leaf is a mosquito repellent
If you live in the tropics, you should know that mosquitos can disturb your sleep and cause malaria. Scent leaf in pregnancy can work as a mosquito repellent, since flies can’t stand the pungent smell.
10. Milk production
You can still enjoy the benefits of scent leaf after pregnancy. Nursing moms suffering from low milk production can drink scent leaf tea to boost milk production.
Can you use scent leaf in pregnancy?
Scent leaf is healthy in pregnancy, as far as you eat everything in moderation. Enjoy the health benefits of this delicious herb when you are pregnant. However, pregnant women should avoid scent leaf essential oils. Essential oils are too concentrated.
