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Corchorus Olitorius Egyptian Spinach is a popular seasonal vegetable in our region. Molokhia/Molokheiya is a common name or many other names. It is thought to have originated in Egypt in the early days of Christ and has been the staple food of Egypt since the time of Pharaohs. It is believed that the Egyptian name molokheiya means 'vegetable for the king' according to Wikipedia a sick Egyptian King, in the year 6000BC , asked for hot soup when he was sick and after drinking the hot soup daily, the illness was treated. Cleopatra is also believed to have enjoyed the same soup. Egyptian Spinach as well as its numerous close connections are prevalent throughout Africa and the Middle East, India and numerous regions of Asia. It will grow in most subtropical and تقاوى البرسيم tropical zones all over the world.

It is possible to grow it as an annual. It will grow up to 1 metre tall, has small yellow flowers and produces edible seeds in pods. The edible leaves may also be harvested continuously. It is extremely hardy and can grow quickly. It is a cousin of okra and can grow in the same conditions as Okra. However, it doesn't need shade.

Large Egyptian spinach plant growing up in the green house lattice

Are you thinking of growing one? It is able to grow in all soil types and is not particular about pH, however naturally prefers a fertile moist soil. Pots are also an option. Making the soil ready is normal. Then, you plant seeds in the exact spot to where they will flourish. Autumn and spring are the best time to plant. Egyptian spinach seeds can germinate faster if they are placed in warm, soapy water before plant. Isabel Shipard suggests soaking for up to 12 hours. When the plant is about 40cm tall, it is time to begin to harvest leaves. Seeds that mature on plant and fall to ground will lie dormant within the soil until the conditions are right and become the next crop. Egyptian spinach is largely pest and disease free. Caterpillars and grasshoppers will take advantage of the leaves and during the hot summer, they may be affected by red spider mites but generally not an issue. Seeds are available now from BOGI seeds.

The leaf is rich in vitamins, minerals, and تقاوى البرسيم (doodleordie.com) protein. The younger leaves can be used in salads or sandwiches, while older leaves can be cooked or dried. Take leaves like spinach. In Egypt the leaves are cooked in a traditional soup with coriander, garlic and meat. In other places it is cooked into a stew with cassava, rice and chicken meat. This vegetable is used in a variety of ways. The leaves can be dried and then ground into tea. Once the tea has been prepared, you can put them in a container for stews and soups in the future. It is offered in Japan through health food stores as a healthy and nutritious tea. Young seed pods the same way as the okra.

Since the Pharaohs, Egyptian spinach has been touted as having health benefits. It is a tea that will boost your immunity. Tea made from leaves can assist in birth and boost mothers' milk production. You can use it to treat sore eyes, rashes and cuts.

Due to their long, strong stalks, many Corchorus genus members can be grown to make Jute. The jute fibers were used over many centuries to make coarse yarn, which was then used as a rope and as a bagging fabric. This was most effective with the tallest and most unbranched stems. The stems were immersed in vegetable matter for a few days in order to allow the fibres to turn brown. After that, the fibres were easily removed and then washed and dried. In certain regions where this fibre is found, it can be used to create paper. Corchorus Olitorius or Egyptian spinach is best utilized as a leaf vegetable while others of its relatives are ideal to make jute.