BANKYE
Cassava
Manihot esculenta
MEDICINAL BENEFITS
Multiple parts
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The flower is nutritious and high in carbohydrates
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Treatment of arthritis, colitis, hypertension, and migraine headaches, boosting the immune system
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Helps with dandruff, balding, sores, cuts, sprains, and skin infections
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Helps regular blood sugar
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Aids in digestion can help with constipation and diarrhoea
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High levels of potassium and folate, stimulate blood flow to the brain
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Has folic acid which is great for pregnant mothers
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS
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Can grow in a variety of habitats and climates
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Their thick waxy leaves help to prevent water loss and withstand some of the direst climates
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They provide shelter for larvae of the Yucca moth, which is the main pollinator, exhibiting a mutualistic relationship
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Has air cleaning properties, removes toxins from the air
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Helps in soil fertility regeneration and protection from soil erosion
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Cassava intercropping can help improve productivity and resilience of crop
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Its ability to produce high yields with little water makes it a staple in drought prone regions, it can provide a major barrier to food security
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They can be also beneficial in carbon sinking
OTHER USES
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Fruits, seeds, flower, and roots are eaten