By Barr. Chf.Mrs Oluwatoyin Abegunde
Scent Leaf (Efinrin) Oil: Exploring Health Benefits and Versatile Uses
Scent leaves, also known as Efinrin in Yoruba, possess various health benefits. They can alleviate stomach aches, dysentery, diarrhea, and vomiting while promoting efficient food digestion.
The essential oil derived from Ocimum gratissimum, commonly referred to as scent leaf, contributes to its medicinal properties.
This plant is widely utilized in traditional medicine in Africa and India, addressing conditions such as respiratory infections, diarrhea, headache, skin diseases, fever, and more.
Scent leaf can be consumed as tea by boiling its leaves, blended into cooking as a spice, or used as a chewing stick for oral health.
The essential oil exhibits anti-inflammatory and insect-repellent properties, and ongoing research is exploring its potential as an antibiotic. Phytochemical screening indicates the presence of alkaloids, phenols, terpenoids, glycosides, flavonoids, steroids, saponins, and tannins in scent leaves.
Notably, scent leaf is recognized for its antibacterial properties, combating bad breath, preventing tooth decay, and serving as a remedy for skin infections.
Scent leaf oil extract is utilized as a food preservative due to its antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities. In Nigeria, a combination of scent leaf and bitter leaf is employed as an effective treatment for malaria and fever.
Other benefits include its role as a powerful mosquito repellent, pain reliever, aid in digestion, blood sugar level regulation, repair of damages caused by smoking, and assistance in lactation for nursing mothers.
While not extensively cultivated, Efinrin holds significance in vegetation patches around homes and is occasionally grown for regular use.
Credit: Heritage News
