What is Binahong? Leaves with a myriad of health benefits
KOMPAS.com – Binahong is a vine leaf that has many health properties such as relieving rheumatism, gout, bone flu, and aches.
Binahong leaves are usually consumed as herbal drinks for health purposes. In addition, it can also be sauteed like leafy vegetables such as kale or spinach.
Also read: Recipe for Sauteed Binahong, Nutritious Leaves for Health
“Binahong leaves have many benefits. Besides that, it is also found in many plantation areas, housing estates and others. This leaf can be said to be a cheap alternative medicine, “explained Prof. Dr. Ir. Ervizal AM Zuhud (AMZU), MS. as Head of the Division of Bioprospection and Conservation of Tropical Plants, Bogor Agricultural University to Kompas.com, Monday (4/1/2021).
Ervizal explained, since the 14th century, binahong leaves have been used as herbal plants in mainland China. Then this plant spread to various countries such as Australia, America, Korea, to Indonesia.
The benefits of binahong leaves include treating ulcers, overcoming skin problems, uric acid and cholesterol, as well as preventing diabetes and treating shortness of breath.
In addition, it is also to clean the lungs from dirt and toxins. It is known that the compounds in binahong can help detoxify dirt and toxins from the lungs.
However, the benefits of binahong for the lungs are still in the process of further research.
Binahong leaves contain binahong catechin, which is a type of antioxidant that not only fights cancer and heart attacks.
Then the benefits of binahong can also help reduce the effects of muscle inflammation after exercise.
Another benefit of binahong leaves is that it speeds up the wound healing process, increases blood pressure, and much more.
Binahong leaf texture and types
“The testures will definitely be a little slimy like other vegetables, after processing these leaves have a texture like spinach leaves and kale leaves,” Ervizal explained.
Binahong leaf types are red and green. Although in plain view these leaves have a different color but the content and properties are the same.
Binahong leaves can be processed by boiling, blending, or sautéing such as leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach. Binahong cooking can use simple spices like garlic.