Vernonia amygdalina (family Asteraceae) is a perennial shrub native to tropical Africa. It is widely known as "bitter leaf" due to its characteristic bitter taste, primarily attributed to sesquiterpene lactones (e.g., vernodalin, vernolide). Traditionally, every part of the plant (leaves, stems, roots) is used in folk medicine across Africa for treating various ailments.
The plant's therapeutic benefits are largely attributed to its diverse phytochemical profile, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and sesquiterpene lactones. vernonia amygdalina medicinal uses
(Available upon request: includes studies from Journal of Ethnopharmacology , African Journal of Biotechnology , and Phytotherapy Research ). Vernonia amygdalina (family Asteraceae) is a perennial shrub