Alugbati Health Benefits | Malabar spinach [ Basella alba ]

Alugbati Health Benefits | Malabar spinach [ Basella alba ]

A Leafy Green Delight | Alugbati Health Benefits | Malabar spinach [ Basella alba ]

Malabar spinach (Basella alba), known as Alugbati, has become one of my favorite leafy vegetables in Talisay City and Bacolod City. It is incredibly easy to cultivate, affordable, and versatile, making it a staple in my kitchen. Whenever I prepare a comforting soup with ground meat and sliced squash, alugbati adds a delightful touch that elevates the dish to new heights.

Alugbati Health Benefits | Malabar spinach [ Basella alba ]

A Personal Journey in Gardening

Growing alugbati has been a rewarding experience. This resilient plant thrives in warm weather, making it perfect for my tropical garden. I love how quickly it grows; within weeks, I can harvest fresh leaves to incorporate into my meals. The vibrant green leaves are visually appealing and packed with nutrients, making them a fantastic addition to my diet.I feel pride whenever I step into my garden and see the lush green vines climbing up their trellis. Knowing I’m cultivating something nutritious right at home is satisfying. Alugbati is not just easy to grow; it’s also cost-effective. With rising grocery prices, having this leafy green readily available helps me maintain a healthy diet without breaking the bank.

Nutritional Benefits of Alugbati [ Health Benefits | Malabar spinach [ Basella alba ]

Alugbati is more than just a delicious vegetable; it offers numerous health benefits:

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Alugbati is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune function and skin health. It also contains calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc, which are vital for overall well-being (Chaurasiya et al., 2021).
High in Antioxidants: This leafy green is rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and lutein, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases (Chaurasiya et al., 2021).
Digestive Health: Alugbati is high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Including it in my meals has contributed to better digestive health and can be a preventive measure against diabetes (Corpuz et al., 2022).
Bone Health: The calcium content in alugbati supports strong bones, while its magnesium content aids in calcium absorption (Borlongan et al., 2013). This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain bone density.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Alugbati contains compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, which can benefit overall health (Chaurasiya et al., 2021).

Cooking with Alugbati to Enjoy its Health Benefits [ Malabar spinach [ Basella alba ]

When I prepare my favorite soup dish, I start by sautéing onions and garlic to create a flavorful base. Then I add ground meat and sliced squash before tossing in generous amounts of fresh alugbati leaves just before serving. The leaves wilt beautifully into the broth, adding a nutritious boost without overpowering the other flavors.I also enjoy using alugbati in stir-fries or salads. Its slightly mucilaginous texture adds a unique element to any dish. Knowing that I’m incorporating such a healthy ingredient into my meals makes every bite even more satisfying.

Conclusion

Alugbati is more than just a leafy green; it’s a versatile ingredient that enhances my favorite dishes while providing essential nutrients. Growing it in my garden has allowed me to enjoy fresh produce while embracing a healthier lifestyle. Whether adding it to soups or experimenting with new recipes, alugbati remains a cherished part of my culinary journey.With its numerous health benefits and ease of cultivation, I encourage everyone to consider adding alugbati to their gardens and plates. It’s not just about enjoying delicious food; it’s about nourishing our bodies with nature’s bounty.

References

Chaurasiya A, Pal RK, Verma PK, Katiyar A, Razauddin, Kumar N.(2021). An updated review on the importance of Malabar spinach (Basella alba and Basella rubra). Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry DOI: 10.22271/phyto.2021.v10.i2p.13974.
Corpuz M.(2022). Phytochemical screening and antibacterial properties of indigenous vegetables in Cagayan Valley, Philippines. The Journal of Emerging Research.
Borlongan IG.(2013). Nutrient composition and antioxidant properties of Philippine indigenous vegetables. PIDS Webs.

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