A Typical African Plant | Afang or Ogasi Leaf (Wild Spinach)
Gnetaceae (Gnetum Africanum) is locally known "Afang" or "Ogasi" but called "Wild Spinach" in English.
Wild Spinach is a tropical wild climbing plant found in Nigeria (especially found in Abia, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Imo and Cross River States.
It's a good economic plant. Many families plant it as their major source of livelihood.
Health Benefits of Wild Spinach
- It helps in the development of strong bones and teeth.
- It lowers blood pressure
- It is very good laxative and helps treat constipation due to its high fiber content.
- It has anti-inflammatory properties
- Very good in treating anemia
- It lower blood sugar in diabetic patients
Most people use Afang or Ogasi Leaves to prepare soup to be eaten with swallow. Others use it for salad preparation.