A Professor of Growth Biology and Biochemistry, Ernest Izevbigie, has said Vernonia Amygdalina, commonly called bitter leaf, “delays the onset of cancer and improves treatment of the disease”.
Izevbigie told the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesdayin Benin, Edo State that it had been scientifically proven that the extract from the plant was able to inhibit the growth of cancerous cells.
He said: “There is scientific evidence to prove that bitter leaf can inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells.
“If one already has cancer, the extract from the leaf can stimulate the production of white blood cells, which is important in chemotherapy.”
The expert said the extract from bitter leaf had also been proven to have anti-diabetes and anti-HIV properties.
On the prevention of cancer, Izevbigie called for regular screening and consumption of fruits and vegetables.
He added: “There is a huge relationship between the consumption of fruits and vegetables and the onset of cancer.
“Also, we should go for regular screening.
“Men above the age of 40 years should be screened for prostate cancer.
“The World Health Organisation has recommended that women should do regular breast and cervical screening.”
Izevbigie stressed that “if detected early, cancer can be cured”.
