Vernonia amygdalina

Vernonia amygdalina

Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Clade: Angiosperms
  • Clade: Eudicots
  • Order: Asterales
  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Genus: Vernonia
  • Species: V. amygdalina

Synonyms: Gymnanthemum amygdalinum

Common Names: Bitter leaf

Local Names: Ewuro,Olubu,Shiwaka,Onugbu

Species ID: NMP-192;wfo-0000055628;NCBI_Taxonomy ID: 82755

Basic Description

Vernonia amygdalina, commonly known as bitter leaf, is a small shrub or tree that can grow up to 2-5 meters tall. It is characterized by its rough bark and brittle branches. The leaves are green, lanceolate to oblong, and very bitter. This plant is native to tropical Africa and is particularly prevalent in Nigeria, Cameroon, and Zimbabwe.

Distribution and Habitat

Vernonia amygdalina grows naturally along rivers, lakes, forest margins, woodlands, and grasslands up to an altitude of 2800 meters. It thrives in regions with mean annual rainfall between 750-2000 mm and requires full sunlight. The plant is adaptable to various soil types but prefers humus-rich soils. Beyond its native range, it is cultivated in other parts of the world, including North America and Europe, often in greenhouses or botanical gardens.

Medicinal Properties

Bitter leaf has a wide range of medicinal properties and is used extensively in traditional medicine:

  1. Antimicrobial: Exhibits activity against various bacterial and fungal infections.
  2. Anti-inflammatory: Contains compounds like flavonoids and alkaloids that help reduce inflammation.
  3. Antioxidant: Rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress.
  4. Diabetes Management: Has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
  5. Heart Health: Supports cardiovascular health and promotes a healthy lipid profile.
  6. Digestive Health: Stimulates digestion, improves appetite, and alleviates gastrointestinal issues.
  7. Malaria Treatment: Used traditionally to treat malaria due to its antimalarial properties.
  8. Fertility and Reproductive Health: Enhances fertility and manages menstrual irregularities in women.
  9. Detoxification: Helps in detoxifying the body, especially the liver and kidneys.
  10. Cancer Prevention: Contains compounds with potential anticancer properties.

Toxicity and Side Effects

While Vernonia amygdalina is generally safe when used appropriately, excessive consumption can lead to various side effects, including:

  1. Gastrointestinal distress: Nausea, diarrhea, and stomach upset.
  2. Allergic reactions: Itching, hives, or swelling in sensitive individuals.
  3. Hypoglycemia: Excessive use can significantly lower blood sugar levels.
  4. Uterine contractions: Pregnant women should avoid it as it may induce uterine contractions.
  5. Reduced iron absorption: Can hinder the absorption of non-heme iron, which is critical for individuals with iron-deficiency anemia.

Additional Information

Bitter leaf can be consumed in various forms, including fresh leaves, dried leaves, extracts, capsules, and tinctures. It is also used topically for skin conditions. It is essential to use it in moderation and consult a healthcare provider, especially for individuals on medication or with underlying health conditions.

References:

  1. Ijeh, I. I., & Ejike, C. C. (2011). Current perspectives on the medicinal potential of Vernonia amygdalina Del. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 5(7), 1051-1061.
  2. Farombi, E. O., & Owoeye, O. (2011). Bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina): A review of its traditional uses, medicinal properties, and toxicology. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 8(6), 2533-2555.
  3. Erasto, P., Grierson, D. S., & Afolayan, A. J. (2007). Antioxidant constituents in Vernonia amygdalina leaves. Pharmaceutical Biology, 45(3), 195-199.
  4. Chenard, C. H., Kopsell, D. A., & Kopsell, D. E. (2005). Nitrogen concentration affects nutrient and carotenoid accumulation in parsley. Journal of Plant Nutrition, 28, 285-297.

External Links

  1. https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/346609-Vernonia-amygdalina
  2. https://identify.plantnet.org/prota/species/Vernonia%20amygdalina%20Delile/data
  3. https://www.gbif.org/species/5397785
  4. https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/full/10.1079/cabicompendium.56245
  5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vernonia_amygdalina

More Pictures
Compounds of Vernonia amygdalina
References

Igwe, K. K., Okafor, I. I., & Anika, S. M. (2015). Phytochemical Characterization Of Vernonia Amygdalina. Del Ethanolic Extract Fraction And Contractile Response On Isolated Uterine Tissue In Female Albino Wistar Rats. International Journal of Scientific Research and Management, 3(11), 3684-3693.

Olusola-Makinde, O., Olabanji, O. B., & Ibisanmi, T. A. (2021). Evaluation of the bioactive compounds of Vernonia amygdalina Delile extracts and their antibacterial potentials on water-related bacteria. Bulletin of the National Research Centre, 45, 1-12.