Longevity spinach (Gynura procumbens)

Description

The first cutting of this plant I ever received came from one of my growing heroes, Brad in Kenner. The crunch is delicious and often serves as my source of water while I’m working hard in the garden.

There is so much good to be said about this, so I am just going to cut and paste:

Research shows that Gynura lowers blood sugar levels and can be used as a successful treatment for diabetes. Specialists have used this plant for over a decade to treat diabetes in African regions. Recently, it has gained much significance in scientific circles.

The plant can also help lower levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body. Research shows that along with lowering sugar levels, the ethanol extract of the plant’s leaves has anti-hyperlipidemic effects as well. Having low cholesterol levels can protect the body from heart and liver diseases, ensuring maximum health. Another benefit is weight loss, considering the plants fat lowering properties. Evidently, Gynura is the complete health package for a diabetic patient.

Not only is Gynura considered a natural treatment for diabetes and for lowering cholesterol, but it is also great for lowering high blood pressure. High blood pressure can cause hypertension, which could be fatal if left untreated. Results suggest Gynura may prevent and treat hypertension by increasing nitric oxide production in the blood vessels. Nitric oxide dilates blood vessels and allows for a smoother blood flow, making the body happy again. Gynura is used as the perfect alternative to taking tablets.

Gynura has also become famous for its anti-inflammatory effects. It contains many bioactive constituents, alkaloids and steroids. These steroids and alkaloids found in the plant play a vital role in warding off inflammation. Practitioners have used Gynura to help treat rheumatism for many years. Rheumatism is a disease which causes inflammation and pain in the joints or muscles. Because of the anti-inflammatory effects of this plant, it makes perfect sense to use the plant as a treatment for this disease. So, making Gynura a part of your everyday life will allow you to see these effects for yourself!

Longevity spinach grows well either in the shade or full sun, but semi-shade is preferred as it tends to grow better. It can be slowly adapted to grow in full sun, so long as the plant’s roots don’t dry out. In the spring, the plant rapidly regenerates from the root system. It grows as an annual vegetable or can be kept potted inside during the winter months. It only requires a slight amount of care and is easily harvested by pinching off the end leaves.