Ugu (Fluted Pumpkin Leaf) Scientifically known as Telfairia occidentalis is a tropical vine grown in West Africa as a leaf vegetable and for its edible seeds. Otherwise known as fluted gourd, fluted pumpkin, ugu, and ikong-ubong in native dialects, It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family and is indigenous to the Eastern & South-Eastern part of Nigeria. It can be enjoyed steamed, with milk, or without milk. See the full LIST OF LEAFY VEGETABLES HERE
Ugu leaf juice, derived from the leaves of the fluted pumpkin plant (Telfairia occidentalis), is a nutritious and health-promoting beverage that is popular in various parts of Africa. This dark green, leafy juice offers a range of health benefits thanks to its rich nutritional profile. Here are seven notable health benefits of Ugu leaf juice
Nutritional Content
It contains a healthy amount of vitamins including; Vitamin A, Vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (nicotinamide), and even Vitamin C (ascorbic acid).
Also, Amino acids like Glutamine, Histidine, Lysine, Methionine, Alanine, Aspartate, Glycine, Tryptophan, Cystine, Leucine, Arginine, Serine, Threonine, Phenylalanine, Valine, Tyrosine, and Isoleucine have been found in Ugu leaves and seeds.
Ugu leaves are also very rich in minerals such as potassium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, and magnesium
Nutritional Values of Fluted Pumpkin Leaves (Ugu) (90g)
| Nutrients | Values |
| Calories | 42 |
| Total fat | 1.6g |
| Iron | 78% |
| Calcium | 3% |
| Vitamin K | 136% |
| Vitamin C | 240% |
| Vitamin A | 7% |
| Protein | 3g |
| Total Carbohydrate | 7g |
| Potassium | 2500mg |
| Sodium | 48mg |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Trans fat | 0g |
| Saturated fat | 0g |
| Pumpkin Leaves Quick Facts | |
| Name: | Pumpkin Leaves |
| Scientific Name | |
| Origin | West Africa |
| Colour | Green |
| Shapes |
Large alternate, simple, ovate-cordate- sub orbicular leaves of 20–25 × 25–30 cm |
| Nutrition | 7 Kcal./cup Major nutrients Iron (10.88%) Vitamin B6 (6.23%) Manganese (6.00%) Phosphorus (5.86%) Copper (5.78%) |
| Taste | Taste similar to a mixture of green beans, asparagus, broccoli, and spinach |
| Health benefits | Promote the health of the heart, Immune System, Ensures Soft and Supple Skin, Fight against cancer, Reduce Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Strengthen our bones, Alleviating PMS Syndrome, Prevent constipation, Helps Maintain Dental Health, Helps Prevent Premature Aging |