Does drinking Okra water improve women's sexual health?

While some women swear by it and its magic component others believe it is a fad that will go away like many that came before it.  

Mary Njoki* started taking Okra Water after watching a video about it online, she is one of the people who swears by it and speaks highly of its beneficial properties.

“I started taking Okra water after watching a  TikTok video about its benefits. Intrigued by its benefits I made it part of my daily ritual and today I can attest to some of its benefits,” she says. 

When she started taking Okra water, Njoki thought it might help with her immunity. She soaks the okras in the water overnight after cleaning them thoroughly and drinks the slimy, slightly thick water.

“I was not necessarily dealing with any health issues but I noticed it helped digestion issues and my face is brighter and less dry unlike before when I used to struggle with bloating constantly,” she says.

According to her, she has noticed major changes in her gut

“I take a glass of Okra water every morning and some I apply on the face like a face mask then live it for twenty minutes before wash. I no longer have bloating issues, my skin is clearer,” she explained.

She adds it has also enhanced her sexual health by promoting natural vaginal lubrication.

Henry Ng’ethe, Chairperson Nutrition Association of Kenya notes there is no magic fruit or vegetable that will offer instant solutions. He believes there are so many factors that determine the sexual health of a woman. 

“Okra is a vegetable that is highly nutritious, it is an excellent source of vitamin C, antioxidant and water-soluble nutrients. My advice is for people to consult their nutritionist before taking this on because as much as it might have some benefits it might not solve the problem especially if you have underlying issues,” he explains. 

Okra is gaining popularity in Kenya, but is largely consumed in Asia, especially India, West Africa and Middle East.

Although research suggests that okra may bind to cholesterol in your gut and lower blood cholesterol levels, it’s also rich in polyphenols, which fight harmful inflammation and protect your heart.

“It is known for its benefits but.  A lot comes into play like exercise and healthy eating habits. Taking food with high number of calories and then taking Okra will not help. Weight loss is a holistic process and using okra as a shortcut will not help,” he said.

Citizen Digital spoke to Grace Kanyi, a gynaecologist and she noted Okra vegetable has some of the properties and nutrients needed for regulating female hormones,  vaginal dryness and fertility issues.

According to her, Okra has dense micronutrients found in supplements used for people with fertility uses and would appear to improve sexual functions of people.

“Okra is not a silver bullet for most of these issues, but by virtue of it being a vegetable it has strong beneficial attributes.  It is well packed with folate, which is important for pregnant women It is known for improving vaginal lubrication,” she explains.