Mutsine (Blackjack) and its Usefulness
- Southerton Business Times
- Mar 23
- 4 min read
By Dr. Precious Sibiya
I remember growing up and hating mutsine, not because of its taste. We never dreamed that this weed would be a delicacy. The nonsensical Mutsine would practically invite itself and follow you home, clinging to your clothes. You would have to be extremely patient to remove mutsine from especially woolen clothes. I confess to throwing away one of two mutsine-infested clothes.
When I was over thirty, I started appreciating the value of mutsine and forgave its waywardness. It’s one of the most wonderful vegetables God made, but less appreciated. The problem would have been averted if mutsine had been classified correctly. A weed is an enemy and must be destroyed to save the real harvest! We are still in transition to embracing most “weeds” as nutrient-dense native vegetables! I trust that you will forgive mutsine for spoiling your clothes as we explore its wonderful health benefits in this week’s feature.
Mutsine (Bidens pilosa or Blackjack) is a nutrient-dense African indigenous leafy vegetable packed with vitamins A, C, and E, offering high antioxidant protection. It is used to treat indigestion, diarrhoea, and respiratory infections, while studies suggest it can lower fasting blood sugar in diabetics and reduce inflammation. It’s said that one plant alone can produce up to 6,000 seeds a year, which can live for around five to six years.
This amazing plant, if fully recognized, has the potential to transform our health as humanity. And animals too!!
Key Health Benefits of Mutsine
Nutrient-Rich: Contains high levels of vitamins A, C, and E, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and chronic diseases.
Diabetes Management: Research indicates it can help lower fasting blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Digestive Health: It is traditionally used to treat ailments such as diarrhoea, dysentery, and indigestion.
Medicinal Properties: Known for potential anti-inflammatory properties, it is used to treat wounds and respiratory infections.
Anti-aging: mutsine has a retinol-like effect on skin in that it can help treat the effects of skin aging and photoaging (e.g., fine lines, wrinkles, looser skin, spots, and pigmentation). No one dares call anyone mbuya Dhori with mutsine in abundance.
Weight loss: Mutsine has anti-obesity action which curbs appetite and fat digestion/absorption and/or increases lipid breakdown, as well as energy use. For my “throw-in” brigade, it’s time to embrace mutsine and enjoy great health!
Mutsine and cardiovascular health: because of its high fibre levels, mutsine is believed to help reduce bad cholesterol levels while increasing good cholesterol, preventing plaque build-up in blood vessels, and reducing the risk of experiencing heart attacks and strokes.
Anti-cancer: mutsine has antioxidant properties and may inhibit the growth of tumor cells, although more studies are needed to confirm this effect.
Blood pressure: It’s rich in flavonoids and antioxidants that promote blood pressure regulation and muscle relaxation.
Allergy Relief: mutsine relieves allergy symptoms because it can inhibit histamine release, which is associated with allergic reactions.
Reduce inflammation: mutsine is anti-inflammatory, making it useful for helping relieve joint pain and sore throat by regulating inflammatory cytokines.
Support gastrointestinal health: mutsine extract can reduce gastric juice volume and acid and pepsin secretion, while also showing anti-ulcer properties.
Ingredients: 1 bunch fresh Mutsine (blackjack leaves), 1 large tomato (chopped), 1 medium onion (chopped), 250ml boiling water, 1/2 tsp salt, 3 tbsp oil.
Method:
Wash the leaves thoroughly and chop them.
Put boiling water in a pot, add the blackjack leaves, and boil for 5 minutes.
Drain the water, reserving just a tablespoon.
Return the leaves to the pot. Add tomatoes, onions, salt, oil, and the reserved tablespoon of water.
Simmer for 2–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and flavors mingle.
Mutsine with Mince: Prepare as above, but add 300g browned mince, carrots, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce for a savory meal.
Mutsine in Peanut Butter: Similar to leafy greens, add peanut butter (dovi) for a thicker, richer taste.
Dried Mutsine (Mufushwa): Rehydrate dried blackjack leaves before cooking, similarly to the fresh recipe.
Mbuya Nehanda Omelette: named by my dreadlocked friend. This is a game-changing recipe of Mutsine, pumpkin flowers, including the baby pumpkin, chopped fresh okra, moringa leaves, fresh chillies, fresh oregano, garlic, tomatoes, and onions. Just mix all ingredients with road runner chicken eggs. Add salt and fry to your liking. Serve on brown toast. Enjoy!
While some research has been conducted into mutsinés' impact on animal and human health, and it has traditionally been used as a source of food and medicinally worldwide, more research is required, particularly in relation to its effect on the human body.
If you intend on using mutsine for health reasons, always speak to a medical professional first to make sure it’s safe for you to do so. As for using Mutsine as a natural retinoid, always conduct a patch test first to see how your skin responds to it before applying it fully or on a regular basis.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.
About the Author
Dr. Precious Sibiya is a certified Wellness Practitioner, stroke survivor, and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle.
Contact: +263775369467 | Email: precioussibiya2014@gmail.com
Mutsine health benefits
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