Surprising Health Benefits of Breadfruit Leaves
Breadfruit is a species of flowering tree in the mulberry family that was been cultivated for over 3000 years. It is widely consumed throughout the Caribbean, India and Africa, to name a few. When ripe, the breadfruit has a soft, yellow, cream colored flesh that resembles bread and it possesses a very distinct texture and taste.
Breadfruit is one of Jamaica’s favourite foods as Jamaicans consume it for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The leaves, the fruit, and the sap that runs from the tree are all utilized for various uses. The leaves are scientifically known as Artocarpus Altilis and can be used to make a tea. This tea has numerous health benefits and can also be used as a preventative medicine. The primary benefit of breadfruit leaves is its ability to normalize one’s blood pressure, whether its too high or too low. The tea is also great in the management of diabetes. One of the active ingredients in breadfruit leaves is called camphorol. This active is useful in the treatment of weak bladder and as an insecticide.
Other natural substances that can be found in breadfruit leaves are hydrocinic acid, tannins, riboflavin and acetylcolin. These active ingredients are useful to fight against diseases such as cardiovascular diseases.
The leaves can be boiled and then strain the water. Use a stainless steel pot, not aluminum because Breadfruit Leaves reacts with aluminum. Then boil the dried leaves in two liters of water until half the water is gone. Then add more water to bring the water level back to 2 liters, then bring to a boil again, and then let the tea cool. Once cool, add natural honey or sugar cubes as sweetener and drink this tea twice a day for 10 days.
Another benefit of breadfruit tree leaves is that they can be used to lower cholesterol. To lower cholesterol, one should drink one cup of breadfruit tea daily. For skin rashes or itching, drink one cup of Breadfruit Tea daily.
Breadfruit is effective in treating these ailments because it has anti-inflammatory properties and contains B Vitamins for good mood and vitality. Breadfruit tree leaves are also effective in reducing swelling, redness, and pain in the joints or the skin.
For persons with underlying medical issues, one should take breadfruit leaves with caution and women who are pregnant or are nursing should not use Breadfruit Leaf Tea.
