12 Little Known Facts About Okra (We Were Shocked by #8!)

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If you are not from the southern parts of the US, you might not be that familiar with okra. Sometimes called lady’s fingers, bamia, or gumbo, this plant grows in tropical and warmer climates. Okra was adored by the Egyptians and is still served in many Indian dishes.

Okra is more than just a tasty seed pod, (you can eat the leaves also, by the way), this ancient plant goes back more than 3500 years where it was not only revered for its tasty pods, but for its incredible health benefits.

There is so much to okra that most people are completely unaware of. If you are like us you will be fascinated by some of the things okra can do. Keep reading and you will want to add more okra to your soups, rice and vegetable dishes.

1. Supports Colon Health

Okra is simply loaded with dietary fiber, which is vital for the entire digestive system, as well as for supporting a healthy colon. Studies have shown that people who eat plenty of healthy fiber have much lower rates of colorectal cancer. Think of okra as a green broom that sweep through the colon cleaning out toxins and excess waste, which will allow the colon to work at a greater level of efficiency. Okra also has plenty of vitamin A, which stimulates the production of healthy mucous membranes in the digestive tract to help it to keep moving things along smoothly.

2. Gives You Healthy Skin

The vitamin C and vitamin A in okra will help to give you younger looking, more vibrant skin. Both vitamins are vital for the repair of skin tissue, the formation of collagen, and even skin pigmentation. You can even use okra as a face mask! Boil a handful of okra until it is soft. Allow to cool completely, and then mash it until it reaches a pasty consistency, something like mashed potatoes. Apply this paste to your face and allow it to sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse with cool water. Your skin will feel super smooth and rejuvenated!

3. Supports the Respiratory System

Okra can help those with respiratory problems, such as asthma, through its high levels of vitamin C. Studies have shown that okra, and other produce high in vitamin C, can help reduce the wheezing and other symptoms associated with respiratory problems.

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