Jute is one of the known plants to people today. It is popular as a soft and shiny vegetable fiber, which can be spun into a coarse and strong thread. It is usually combined with other vegetables like bamboo shoots, bitter gourd, and loofah. The following are the health benefits of jute, along with its sample recipe.
Health Benefits
Fiber
One health benefit of jute is fiber. Fiber is a substance that acts as a sweep, helping the body remove harmful substances like toxins and free radicals, which cause diseases like heart diseases and cancer. Fiber also facilitates faster bowel elimination by adding bulk and roughage, preventing digestive disorders like constipation, hemorrhoids, and diverticulitis. In addition, fiber reduces blood cholesterol, preventing cardiovascular problems like hypertension, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, and stroke.
Skin and Hair Health
Another health benefit of jute is the promotion of skin and hair health. According to Health Benefits Times, jute contains vitamins A, B, and C. Vitamin A, aside from its popular role in promoting vision, is also vital when it comes to wound healing and skin re-growth. As per the publication, vitamin A deficiency may result to poor complexion. To add, vitamin B and C assist in maintaining the levels of collagen in the body. Collagen is a substance that acts as cement that helps connect loosely connected cells and tissues; this mechanism helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles, maintaining the skin’s youthful structure.
Anti-Aging
Aside from the collagen associated with vitamins A, B, and C, jute also has vitamin E, which presents anti-aging benefits. According to Food Recap, the vitamin makes jute better that any age defying cream. As per the publication, vitamin E’s antioxidant properties combine with free radicals that lead to problems like artery hardenin, arthritis, and heart and kidney problems. Moreover, vitamin E is just known for its ability to maintain a person’s youth and it reduces infertility rates while boosting one’s stamina.
Pregnancy
Jute also benefits pregnant women. According to Naira Land, it best benefits pregnant women who are experiencing prolonged labor. As per the publication, jute leaves can be combined with the stem and the resulting preparation is consumed as a drink. It is added that the plant helps in milk secretion in lactating mothers.
Sample Recipe
A recipe that uses jute is Egyptian Mulokhia or jews mallow. According to Sugar and Garlic, the ingredients include a package of frozen minced mulokhia leaves, four cups chicken broth or vegetable stock, two to three tablespoon of minced garlic, two tablespoons ground coriander, a tablespoon of olive oil or butter, a tablespoon of two of salt, one-fourth teaspoon black pepper, white rice, pita bread, and roasted chicken. The last three ingredients are optional.
To prepare, as per the publication, the broth is boiled in a large pot over medium-high heat. Then, the garlic is sauteed in a small sauce pan over medium heat and the ground coriander is added and stirred until brown in color; the garlic should not be scorched or burned. Then, it is removed from heat after three minutes. Next, the broth is added to the garlic mixture and stirred until it sizzles. Once done, the garlic mixture is poured into the larger pot of broth and stirred well. Then, the frozen mulokhia block is added into the broth and stirred every few minutes until it has dissolved and melted into the broth. It is simmered for five to ten minutes over medium heat and not overboiled to prevent ruining its consistency. Finally, the dish is served with pita, rice, or chicken.
Jute is considered nutritious with its multiple health benefits. Hence, it can be added to various dishes like the Egyptian Mulokhia for friends and families.
