Ruku-ruku leaves have many benefits, one of which can relieve stress.
Benefits of Ruku-Ruku Leaves, Can Help You Relax, Ruku-ruku (Ocimum tenuiflorum Linne) is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. This plant, also known as “holy basil”, looks and smells similar to basil leaves.
This plant native to Southeast Asia has various health benefits and can help overcome various diseases. Ruku-ruku leaves have various benefits for physical, mental, and mental health.
5 Benefits of Ruku-Ruku Leaves, Can Relieve Stress
1. As a source of vitamin K
Ruku-ruku leaves can be consumed by making tea or as a cooking spice. Reported by WebMD, the leaves that have this unique aroma are a good source of:
Ruku-ruku have this unique aroma are a good source of:
- Vitamin A.
- Vitamin C.
- Vitamin K.
- Iron.
- zinc.
- Calcium.
- Manganese.
Ruku-ruku leaves are rich in vitamin K. This fat-soluble micronutrient can help support heart health and bone mineralization. Half a cup of ruku-ruku leaves can meet the recommended daily intake of vitamin K. Vitamin K is also beneficial for supporting digestion and brain function.
Even so, always consult a doctor before you use ruku-ruku leaves for medicinal or supplemental purposes.
2. Reduce stress and anxiety
All parts of the plant from the leaves can act as adaptogens. It is a natural substance that helps the body deal with stress and improves mental balance.
Research published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (eCAM), reports that ruku-ruku leaves have pharmacological properties that can help the mind when dealing with stress.
In addition, a report in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine also states that ruku-ruku leaves have antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties that are comparable to diazepam and antidepressant drugs.
3. Accelerate wound healing
According to the Healthline page, extracts made from the leaves are thought to speed up the wound healing process. The properties of ruku-ruku leaves include:
5 The properties of ruku-ruku leaves include
- Antibacterial.
- Antivitus.
- antifungal.
- Anti-inflammatory.
- Analgesics (painkillers).
Some people even use ruku-ruku leaves after surgery to heal and protect wounds.
Research shows that ruku-ruku leaves can be used to fight infections and wounds, such as:
- Thrush.
- Keloids.
- Scar.
- Pimple.
4. Helps lower blood sugar levels
If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, all parts of the ruku-ruku plant can help reduce blood sugar levels.
Research published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative shows that ruku can help prevent diabetes symptoms such as:
- Weight gain.
- Hyperinsulinemia, or excess insulin in the blood.
- High cholesterol.
- insulin resistance.
- Hypertension.
5. Helps balance cholesterol levels
Since ruku targets metabolic stress, this plant can also help with weight loss and cholesterol levels. A study conducted by Dr. Beverly Yates, a naturopathic doctor, showed significant changes in rabbit fat molecules when consuming raw ruku-ruku leaves.
The rabbits involved in the experiment had higher bad cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and good cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
The results of the study also showed a decrease in cholesterol levels caused by stress. There was a decrease in total cholesterol in the kidneys, liver, or heart in rats after they ate ruku-ruku leaf powder.
Ruku-ruku leaves have various benefits for physical, mental, and mental health. You can consume this plant in various ways. Even so, be sure to consult a doctor first before taking it as an alternative medicine or supplement.
