5 proven benefits Of Chaya Leaves for fertility & Pregnancy + Known sides effects

The use of Chaya leaves for fertility has raised more opinions on its impact after a long time. Before digging deeper, let’s get to know the plant and its health benefits.It’s believed that Chaya plant is indigenous to the Mexican people. Whereas, in the Southern part of Nigeria, Chaya leaves are commonly found and known by different names such as “Miracle Leaf”, “Hospital too far”, Tree Spinach, etc. Besides this, it’s scientifically called “Cnidoscolus chayamansa”.There are tribal names for Chaya leaves such as ‘Efo Iyana-Ipaja’ in Yoruba and ‘Ugu Oyibo’ in Igbos. Chaya leaves are a rich source of several vitamin and mineral that is beneficial to human health such as protein, calcium, iron and vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.

Nutrients In Chaya leaves

Protein

Chaya leaves are a rich source of plant-based protein that helps to build muscles. A single serving of Chaya leaves supplies the quantity of protein you get when consuming an egg.

Calcium

Chaya supplies calcium to the body when consumed, calcium builds strong bones. Research reveals that Chaya has a higher quantity of calcium more other vegetables.

Iron

Our body needs Iron for blood and energy. Intake of Chaya leaves supplies the right amount of iron to boost energy and for healthy blood formation. Research also reveals that the Iron content of Chaya doubles that of spinach.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A improved vision and as well helps to prevent night blindness and boosts our body’s immune system to strengthen its fight against diseases and infections.

Vitamin C

Apart from boosting our body’s immunity, Vitamin C may also help build strong bones and boost iron metabolism.

How To Make Chaya Tea

Chaya leaves tea is a popular beverage in many parts of the world, especially in Mexico and Central America. Here are the steps to make Chaya leaves tea:

Ingredients:

• 10-12 fresh Chaya leaves
• 4 cups of water
• Honey or sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Chaya leaves thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Boil 4 cups of water in a pot.
3. Add the Chaya leaves to the boiling water and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Turn off the heat and let the tea cool down for a few minutes.
5. Strain the tea using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the leaves.
6. Add honey or sugar to taste (optional).
7. Serve the Chaya leaves tea hot or cold.Note: Chaya leaves contain hydrocyanic acid, which can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. It is recommended to consume Chaya leaves tea in moderation and not to exceed more than 2 cups per day. Also, pregnant women and people with kidney problems should avoid consuming Chaya leaves tea.

Chaya leaves benefits

Cnidoscolus chayamansa, also known as tree spinach or chaya, is a leafy green vegetable that has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant and is believed to have numerous health benefits. Here are some of the potential Chaya leaves benefits:

1. Helps to supplement lacking nutrients.

Chaya leaves are rich in nutrients, it is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium, all of which support and improve human health

2. May help regulate blood sugar.

Some studies have suggested that Chaya leaves may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it potentially beneficial for people with diabetes.

3. May improve digestion

Cnidoscolus chayamansa contains fiber, which can help improve digestion and prevent constipation.

4. May boost the immune system

Cnidoscolus chayamansa contains antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system and protect against disease.

5. May have anti-inflammatory properties

Some studies have suggested that Cnidoscolus chayamansa may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could make it potentially beneficial for people with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.

6. May help improve bone health

Cnidoscolus chayamansa is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health and may help prevent osteoporosis.It is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of Chaya. Additionally, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Chaya leaves For Fertility

Chaya leaves are believed to have several health benefits, including improving fertility. These leaves are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that help to regulate hormones and improve reproductive health.

To use Chaya leaves for fertility, you can consume them in various ways similar to Jute leaves. One way is to add them to your diet by using them as a seasoning in your dishes. You can also make tea by boiling the leaves in water and drinking it.However, it is important to note that Chaya leaves should be consumed in moderation as they contain hydrocyanic acid, which can be toxic in large amounts.

Fertility Benefits of Chaya leaves

Chaya leaves have been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various health conditions, including infertility. Here are some of the fertility benefits of Chaya leaves that most people don’t know.

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1. Regulates Hormones

Chaya leaves contain phytochemicals that help to regulate hormones, including estrogen and progesterone, which are essential for fertility.

2. Improves Ovarian Function

Chaya leaves are rich in antioxidants that help to protect the ovaries from oxidative stress, which can damage the eggs and reduce fertility.

3. Boosts Sperm Count

Chaya leaves contain nutrients that help to improve sperm count and motility, which are essential for male fertility.

4. Reduces Inflammation

Chaya leaves have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation in the reproductive system, which can improve fertility.

CHECK OUT 8 Amazing Aphrodisiac Fruits and Vegetables To Get You In The Mood, Boost libido

5. Enhances Sexual Health

Chaya leaves contain aphrodisiac properties that help to enhance sexual health and improve fertility.It is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the fertility benefits of Chaya leaves. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using Chaya leaves for fertility or any other health purposes.

Chaya leaves during Pregnancy

Although, Chaya leaves are a rich source of essential nutrients that are beneficial during pregnancy such as calcium, vitamins, and antioxidants that may help baby development.

But it is not safe to consume chaya leaves during pregnancy excessively. Here are 2 reasons to avoid Chaya leaves during pregnancy.

• Chaya leaves contain hydrocyanic acid,

which can be toxic if consumed in large quantities, therefore, it is not recommended for pregnant women to consume Chaya leaves or Chaya leaves tea.
Additionally, Pregnant women are advised to avoid foods that contain hydrocyanic acid as it can cause harm to the developing fetus.

• Excessive intake of Chata leaves during pregnancy may trigger preterm birth

It has been known to stimulate uterine contractions, which can lead to premature labor or miscarriage.Therefore, it is best for pregnant women to avoid consuming Chaya leaves during pregnancy, including Chaya leaves tea until after delivery. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before consuming any new food or beverage during pregnancy.

Chaya leaves side effects

Like any other plant or medication, intake of Chaya leaves also has side effects. Some of the reported side effects you may experience includes.

• Gastrointestinal problems:

Chaya leaves contain high levels of oxalic acid, which can cause digestive issues such as stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea.

• May cause Hypoglycemia:

Chaya leaves have been reported to lower blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for people with diabetes or those taking medication to control their blood sugar levels.

• Can Cause Skin irritation:

Chaya leaves contain a sap that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people.

• Kidney problems:

Chaya leaves contain high levels of potassium, which can be harmful to people with kidney problems.

• May Interference with medication:

Chaya leaves may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and blood pressure medications.

• May lower testosterone levels:

An animal study on Ram study opined that long use of Chaya may decrease testosterone levels which may result in several other fertility issues.

Although, there is limited evidence to prove that the intake of Chaya leaves may lower the function of the male gonads. More importantly, studies supporting this claim are carried out on animals, not humans which prefer cooked leaves.

Finally, more in-depth studies are required on humans to fully understand the side effects of excessive intake of Chaya leaves.It is also important to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming Chaya leaves, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication.