> Supplement Index > Bitter Leaf / Vernonia amygdalina / Mujonso > Bitter Leaf General Information Bitter Leaf Uses & Scientific Evidence For Bitter Leaf Dosage Information Bitter Leaf Safety & Interaction Information - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Bitter Leaf General Information Bitter Leaf is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 23 feet tall with gray or brown bark that is rough and flaked. The leaves are green and oblong and the flowers are white, small, thistly, and clustered. The pith, leaf, and root have the medicinal qualities. In many parts of Africa, Bitter Leaf is prepared and eaten like spinach. The root and twigs are chewed as appetizers. This herb is believed to have tonic, anti-parasitic, anti-tumor, and anti-bacterial properties. - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Bitter Leaf Uses & Scientific Evidence For Animals studies have shown that chimpanzees chew the pith for its anti-parasitic properties, but it is also used in Africa to treat intestinal parasite infestation in humans as well. It is also used to treat schistosomiasis, a disease caused by parasitic worms, but also works well in treating diarrhea and malaise. The African people also use it to treat fever, other intestinal complaints, malaria, and to help restore stamina. - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Bitter Leaf Dosage Information Bitter Leaf comes in various forms and is an ingredient in other products. For best results, read and follow product label directions. - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Bitter Leaf Safety & Interaction Information Bitter Leaf is generally regarded as safe for use as a food and a medicine; however, safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease is not known. If you think you may have intestinal worms, it is best to consult with your physician before using Bitter Leaf for the treatment of your condition. - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - -