Waterleaf (Talinum triangulare) has many potential health benefits, including:
Bone health
Waterleaf is a good source of calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for healthy bones.
Eye health
Waterleaf is a good source of vitamin A, which can help slow the progression of retinal disease, reduce the risk of cataracts, and improve low-light vision.
Iron deficiency and anemia
Waterleaf is an excellent dietary source of iron, which can help prevent anemia.
Cognitive health
Waterleaf is an excellent source of vitamin C, which can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and slow age-related cognitive decline.
Diabetes
Waterleaf can help manage diabetes by slowing down digestion and conversion of starch to simple sugar.
Heart disease and stroke
Waterleaf can help prevent heart disease and stroke by reducing the level of cholesterol in your blood.
Brain tissue protection
Waterleaf contains nutrients that enhance brain activities and protect the brain tissue for proper functioning.
Waterleaf is also a good source of:
Magnesium, Potassium, Crude protein, Alpha-tocopherols, Beta-tocopherols, Total lipids, Essential oils, Thiamine, Riboflavin, and Niacin.
However, waterleaf should not be eaten raw in large quantities because it contains soluble oxalates, which may induce kidney stones if too much is consumed. It should also not be incorporated into infant meals because of the antinutrients in it.