Features
Health benefits of hibiscus enormous — Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu
Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu is a distinguished nature path, professor of naturopathy, lawyer, legal academic, Chartered Health Economist, and Chartred Management Consultant. He is a passionate advocate for traditional and alternative medicine in Africa.
The outdated perception that practitioners of traditional and alternative medicine lack formal education is now a thing of the past, and Prof. Nyarkotey has played a crucial role in reshaping this narrative.
It is rare, if not unprecedented, for a lawyer to be at the forefront of promoting natural and herbal medicine in Ghana and Africa.
However, Prof. Nyarkotey has demonstrated beyond doubt that it is possible. His journey began as a naturopath before he pursued law in The Gambia, where he was later called to the Bar. This remarkable achievement made him the first naturopath in Africa to attain such a distinction.
Recognising his unique position, traditional healers in The Gambia urged him to use his legal expertise to advance the cause of traditional and alternative medicine, a mission he actively pursues.
As the President of Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine and Technology in Ghana, Prof. Nyarkotey has been instrumental in advancing naturopathy and holistic medicine education.
He played a key role in developing Ghana’s first National Occupational Standard in Naturopathy and Holistic Medicine under the Commission for TVET (CTVET). His expertise spans naturopathic research, healthcare law and policy, law and development, theology, health economics, and the integration of traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare systems.
Globally recognised for his contributions, he has significantly influenced legal frameworks for naturopathy and alternative medicine in both Ghana and The Gambia.
In recent years, hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, has become a major public health concern in Ghana.
Health statistics indicate that a significant percentage of the adult population suffers from hypertension, exacerbated by poor dietary habits, stress, lack of physical activity, and genetic predisposition.
Other chronic conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, are also prevalent. Prof. Nyarkotey has gained widespread recognition for his pioneering promotion of hibiscus as a natural remedy for managing high blood pressure, a topic that has recently gone viral.
As a distinguished columnist for the Ghanaian Times, his insights caught the attention of The Spectator, leading to an interview to discuss the health and economic benefits of hibiscus, commonly known as sobolo.
Interviewer (The Spectator): Prof. Nyarkotey, your research and articles on the health benefits of sobolo have been trending recently. Can you shed more light on its impact on hypertension?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: Thank you for the opportunity. Yes, my recent studies and articles have focused on the effects of hibiscus, or sobolo, on high blood pressure. Several scientific studies, including my own research, have shown that hibiscus has antihypertensive properties.
It contains bioactive compounds such as anthocyanins and flavonoids, which help lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, improving circulation, and reducing oxidative stress.
Studies indicate that hibiscus tea can be as effective as some antihypertensive medications in mild to moderate hypertension cases. However, moderation is key, especially for those already on blood pressure medications.
The Spectator: How does hibiscus work to lower high blood pressure?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: Hibiscus primarily acts as a natural ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitor, preventing blood vessel constriction, and thus lowering blood pressure.
Additionally, it has diuretic properties that help eliminate excess sodium and fluids from the body, contributing to better blood pressure regulation. Its antioxidants also combat oxidative stress, a major factor in hypertension.
The Spectator: Apart from hypertension, you also mentioned that hibiscus improves urine flow in men with prostate issues. Can you elaborate how this works?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: Certainly. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in aging men that leads to difficulty in urination due to prostate enlargement. Hibiscus has diuretic properties that increase urine production and flow, alleviating symptoms such as frequent urination and urinary retention. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce prostate swelling and improve urinary health.
The Spectator: That’s interesting. What is the difference between consuming hibiscus cold versus hot?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: The temperature at which hibiscus is consumed affects its potency. Cold hibiscus tea retains more vitamin C and delicate antioxidants, making it ideal for boosting immunity and hydration. Hot hibiscus tea, however, releases more flavonoids and polyphenols, enhancing its cardiovascular benefits. Cold hibiscus is great for antioxidant effects, while hot hibiscus is better suited for hypertension and relaxation.
The Spectator: What about hibiscus powders, capsules, tablets, and decoctions? How do they compare in effectiveness?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: Hibiscus is available in various forms. Powders retain most bioactive compounds and can be added to food or drinks. Capsules and tablets offer a convenient, standardised dosage, ideal for those who prefer not to drink tea. Decoctions, where hibiscus is boiled for extended periods, may extract additional medicinal compounds. Each form has its benefits, depending on individual needs.
The Spectator: Does hibiscus help regulate blood sugar levels?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: Yes, hibiscus helps improve insulin sensitivity and slows carbohydrate absorption, which is beneficial for individuals with diabetes. Drinking hibiscus tea after meals can moderate blood sugar spikes and enhance glucose metabolism.
The Spectator: Can individuals with low blood pressure and low blood sugar consume hibiscus?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: Those with low blood pressure or low blood sugar should be cautious, as hibiscus can further lower both. It is advisable to consult a naturopathic doctor before incorporating it into their diet.
The Spectator: Can hibiscus be combined with pharmaceutical antihypertensive and diabetic medications?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: Hibiscus may enhance the effects of these medications, leading to excessively low blood pressure or blood sugar. Individuals on these medications should consult their doctors before combining hibiscus with their treatment regimen.
The Spectator: Is hibiscus beneficial for liver and kidney health?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: Yes, hibiscus has hepatoprotective properties that support liver health by reducing oxidative stress and promoting detoxification. Its diuretic effects also aid kidney health by flushing out toxins and reducing the risk of kidney stones. However, those with existing kidney conditions should seek medical advice before consuming it regularly.
The Spectator: What are your plans for the hibiscus industry?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: I see significant potential in the hibiscus industry and plan to promote large-scale cultivation, value addition, and further research. I aim to collaborate with stakeholders to develop hibiscus-based products and create more awareness of its health benefits. Establishing a structured hibiscus industry could provide economic opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and researchers.
The Spectator: You also mentioned that sobolo could replace communion wine. Can you elaborate on this?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: Absolutely. I recently spoke with a pastor concerned about the rising cost of imported communion wine. Many churches struggle to afford these imports. I strongly propose Sobolo as an affordable, healthier, and locally sourced alternative.
The Spectator: How does Sobolo compare to traditional communion wine?
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: Traditional communion wine is made from fermented grape juice and often contains alcohol. Sobolo, made from hibiscus flowers, ginger, and spices, is rich in antioxidants and alcohol-free, making it suitable for all church members, including children and abstainers.
The Spectator: Thank you, Prof. Nyarkotey, for sharing such valuable insights.
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu: Thank you as well. It’s always a pleasure to educate the public on naturopathic medicine and healthy living.
- By Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu
Features
Preventing the brain’s melting point with BOS
The human brain is a complex and delicate organ, susceptible to damage from various factors, including extreme temperatures.
The brain’s melting point, also known as the temperature threshold beyond which brain tissue begins to degrade, is a critical concern for individuals seeking to maintain optimal cognitive function.
Fortunately, the Brain Operating System (BOS) offers a revolutionary solution to prevent the brain’s melting point.
Understanding the brain’s melting point
The brain’s melting point refers to the temperature threshold beyond which brain tissue begins to degrade, leading to irreversible damage.
This temperature threshold varies depending on individual factors, such as age, health, and environmental conditions. However, research suggests that the brain’s melting point is approximately 104°F (40°C) to 107°F (42°C).
The role of BOS in preventing the brain’s melting point
BOS, a cutting-edge technology, plays a crucial role in preventing the brain’s melting point. By leveraging advanced neural interfaces and artificial intelligence, BOS monitors and regulates brain temperature, ensuring that it remains within a safe range.
How BOS prevents the brain’s melting point
BOS prevents the brain’s melting point through several mechanisms:
1. Temperature regulation: BOS continuously monitors brain temperature, adjusting neural activity to maintain a stable temperature.
2. Heat dissipation: BOS enhances heat dissipation through increased blood flow and sweating.
3. Neuro protection: BOS protects neurons from heat-induced damage.
Benefits of BOS in preventing the brain’s melting point
The benefits of BOS in preventing the brain’s melting point are numerous:
1. Prevents brain damage: BOS prevents brain damage caused by excessive heat.
2. Maintains cognitive function: BOS ensures optimal cognitive function by maintaining stable brain temperature.
3. Enhances brain resilience: BOS enhances brain resilience to temperature fluctuations.
Real-World applications of BOS
BOS has various real-world applications:
1. High-performance computing: BOS enables high-performance computing by maintaining optimal brain temperature.
2. Medical applications: BOS has medical applications, such as treating heat-related illnesses.
3. Space exploration: BOS is crucial for space exploration, where extreme temperatures pose a significant risk.
Conclusion
BOS is a revolutionary technology that prevents the brain’s melting point, ensuring optimal cognitive function and overall well-being. By leveraging advanced neural interfaces and artificial intelligence, BOS monitors and regulates brain temperature, protecting against heat-related damage.
Glossary:
1. BOS: Brain Operating System.
2. Brain’s melting point: Temperature threshold beyond which brain tissue begins to degrade.
3. Neural interface: Connects human brain with digital devices.
Contact Information
virginvtech@yahoo.com
Additional resources:
1. BOS research: Explore scientific studies.
2. Neural interface resources: Discover books and articles.
3. Brain-computer interface communities: Join online forums.
Future directions
As BOS technology continues to evolve, we can expect:
1. Improved temperature regulation: Enhanced temperature regulation mechanisms.
2. Increased cognitive enhancement: Advanced cognitive enhancement capabilities.
3. Expanded applications: New applications in various fields.
By harnessing the power of BOS, individuals can safeguard their brain health and maintain optimal cognitive function, even in extreme environments.
By Robert Ekow Grimmond-Thompson
Features
Lotto wahala and Tuobodom palaver
In Sikaman lotto is not a game. It is a profession, a noble career which people aspire to. It is the highest paying profession after armed robbery and the most widespread job on this side of the Atlantic.
In places like China, lotto is a disease that has no cure. Once you are infected, no doctor on earth can cure you. May be Kofi Larteh, Ghana’s most celebrated magician, can help ease the symptoms, but no definitive cure will be forthcoming.
Coming back to Sikaman, lotto has been the financial messiah of many. That is how people look after their large families, pay school fees, marry two wives and do their own ‘monkey things.’
If you are very poor and you win a lottery, chances are that you will die before you even collect the money. You’ll die out of excitement or you’ll start day-dreaming in the streets and an articulated truck will hit you.
As such, very heavy wins are not recommended for poor people, lest they get listed too soon in the obituary columns.
The sad story is told of a heavy-duty caterpillar driver who had a very heavy lotto windfall of several millions, his first big win after several years.
CATERPILLAR
He was driving the caterpillar home when he saw his son running towards him, shouting. “All your numbers have dropped! All your numbers have dropped! He could not believe his ears.
All the four numbers he had staked had dropped and his son, who had gone to stake them for him, was himself over-excited. The poor caterpillar man just could not handle the good news. He suddenly stepped on the brakes and the caterpillar jolted him a trifle too violently, throwing him off. He landed right in front of the still moving heavy-duty machine and it crushed him flat.
I don’t think the bloke would have died if he had won a smaller amount. Sometimes too much cash is not good for the health.
Seldom, people get too confident and that can also result in a wake-keeping, like that of a man who used his lifetime savings and borrowed extra money to crack the machine with a two-sure that the compiler must compulsory drop or the world will end.
Even the shadows of the numbers or their counterparts were nowhere near the winning numbers. His shock-absorbers crumbled under the weight of the heavy disappointment. He crashed to the floor and started foaming at the mouth. He was declared dead on arrival at the nearest clinic.
WINDFALL
Recently, there was a countrywide lotto windfall, and in Kumasi it was more than a festival. Most stakers had between ¢30m and ¢40 million on two-sure that the lotto magicians had predicted at least three weeks earlier,
Kejetia chop bars were besieged with overnight millionaires, carrying huge appetites induced by Opeimu Bitters popularly called Opeimu Peters. All the meat and mudfish got sold out within an hour and procurement agents had to double up to restock.
While some were celebrating, others were weeping and gnashing teeth. The problem was that, three weeks beforehand, the two sure numbers were declared by all the lotto sorcerers, dreamers, magicians, tellers and all the self-appointed and self-promoted forecasters.
Everybody including 10-year-olds, who staked and lost. The following week, they were advised to continue staking. The faithful did continue but the faithless stopped. All of them lost. In the third week or so, a good number of confident stakers had lost faith in the two numbers. That was when the number landed.
So the windfall was for only those who had the unshakeable faith in the numbers. See what faith can do? It can move dollars. Don’t waver, so saith the holy scriptures.
The faithless indeed gnashed teeth. The winners on the other hand celebrated with a song that is as controversial as the business of lotto. It is a song played by the group called Nkasei and has something to do with a town in the Brong Ahafo Region called Tuobodom whose capital we hear is Jinijini.
I hear it is a derogatory song and the queen mother of Tuobodom got charged and breathed out electric current during her protest on air. She allegedly ended up demanding a mobile phone from Nkasei so that she could communicate with them to settle the matter peacefully, lest wahala.
Well, the song is rising up the charts and Nkasei are making the dough, but should it be at the expense of a whole townsfolk, their forebears and generations to come?
WATERPROOF
Waterproof, the famous comedian, was allegedly given hefty slaps at the Kumasi rail station by some Frafra jingoists who felt he was deriding their tribe. And Bob Okala had to run with his tail between his legs when he was confronted and realised that slaps were going to be visited on his lean face.
Let’s not use words and lyrics to cause discomfort to others.
This article was first published on Saturday July 9, 2005
