A PROFESSOR of Cardiovascular Physiology and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC), Daniel Nwachukwu has urged Nigerians to explore the benefits of Zobo leaves in curing and preventing hypertension and other heart-related ailments.
   
Nwachukwu gave the advice at the 201st inaugural lecture of the university of Nigeria in Enugu, with the title: “The Marriage between the Cardiovascular System and Hibiscus Sabdariffa (Zobo leaves): Let no one put asunder”.
  
During the lecture, Nwachukwu highlighted the long-standing research and findings that have shown Hibiscus Sabdariffa (Zobo Leaves) to be highly effective in managing hypertension for those with the condition and preventing it in others.
  
“Through years of research, we have discovered that Hibiscus Sabdariffa (Zobo Leaves) is more effective than any anti-hypertensive drug available. Zobo leaves are readily available, inexpensive, and have no adverse medical effects when consumed in moderation,” he said.
   
The professor explained that when the liquid extract of Zobo leaves is consumed daily in moderate amounts, it has a balancing and rejuvenating effect on the heart and the entire cardiovascular system.  He said: “Hibiscus Sabdariffa (Zobo Leaves) has been found to support optimal functioning and vigor of the cardiovascular muscles and system (the heart in its entirety). We have conducted extensive research and clinical trials on Hibiscus Sabdariffa (Zobo Leaves) and found it to be the ideal choice for heart health,” he added.
   
Nwachukwu noted that Zobo leaves also possess special properties that help regulate blood sugar (diabetes) and combat obesity, especially type-2 obesity.
   
He, however, warned against adding things like pineapple and other fruits or ingredients like sugar to make it sweet. According to him, adding those things dilutes it to lose its anti-hypertensive potency. “To prepare Hibiscus Sabdariffa (Zobo Leaves) for its medicinal benefits, all one needs to do is boil the leaves in hot water, sieve the mixture, and consume the resulting drink, It is best to consume the drink without any additives, despite its sour taste, as this is the most natural and beneficial for the heart, kidneys, and urinary tract,” he said.
   
Nwachukwu also called on industrialists to invest in the production of pure Hibiscus Sabdariffa (Zobo leaves) products for the benefit of Nigerians’ health. “This initiative will not only create employment opportunities but also generate wealth for those who venture into the production of this healthy product,” he remarked.
   
The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Igwe, commended Nwachukwu for delivering a lecture that was both academically enlightening and medically insightful.
  
He stated, “Everyone present today has gained new knowledge and valuable takeaways. We invite industrialists and investors to collaborate with the institution, leveraging our research findings and endeavors. This partnership, when commercialized, promises to be a lucrative venture for all involved,” he added.