23 Surprising Benefits of Okro You Didn’t Know

 When it comes to superfoods packed with health benefits and culinary versatility, okro (also known as okra or lady’s finger) stands out—especially now, as it’s in season across Nigeria. While many people enjoy this vegetable in soups and stews, few truly understand the wide array of benefits it offers. Here are 23 things you probably didn’t know about okro—from its nutritional value to its traditional uses.

 

 

1. Okro Season Is Now

Right now, okro is in peak season in Nigeria, making it the perfect time to explore its benefits and include it in your meals.

2. Okro vs. Okra

In Nigeria, the vegetable is commonly called okro, while in other parts of the world—especially in the West—it is known as okra.

3. Also Known as Lady’s Finger

Due to its long, slender appearance, okro is nicknamed lady’s finger in parts of Europe and Asia.

4. Two Types of Okro

Okro comes in green and red varieties. Both taste the same, but red okro turns green when cooked.

5. Naturally Slimy

Okro is well known for its viscous texture, often described as slimy or “drawy.”

6. A Flowering Plant

Okro is a flowering plant that produces edible seed pods, making it both nutritious and decorative.

7. Mild and Absorptive

Okro has a mild flavor, which allows it to easily absorb spices and seasonings, making it ideal for rich dishes.

8. Loves Warmth and Water

Okro thrives in warm climates with ample water, which explains why it’s so common in tropical countries.

9. Edible Seeds Inside

Inside every okro pod are small, edible seeds that add texture and nutrients to your meal.

10. Mucilage Magic

That famous sliminess? It’s called mucilage, and it’s packed with soluble fiber that benefits your health.

11. A West African Favorite

Okro soup is a beloved dish in West Africa, cherished for its texture and deep flavor.

12. Draw Soup Sibling

Okro shares its slimy texture with other traditional soups like ogbono soup and ewedu soup.

13. Food as Medicine

More than just a vegetable, okro is rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making it a medicinal food.

14. Culinary Versatility

You can use okro to make soups, sauces, and stews—or even eat it raw.

15. Yes, You Can Eat It Raw

Slice it thin and add it to salads for a unique crunch and nutritional punch.

16. Every Part Is Edible

Not just the pods—okro leaves are also edible and can be used in salads and soups.

17. High in Protein and Low in Carbs

Nigerian okro soup is especially healthy, being high in protein and healthy fats, and low in carbohydrates.

18. Quick and Easy to Prepare

Okro soup is one of the fastest Nigerian soups to cook, perfect for busy weeknights.

19. Known as Miyan Kubewa in Hausa

In northern Nigeria, okro soup is known as miyan kubewa, particularly when made from dried okro.

20. Other Popular Names

You may hear it called draw soup, okra soup, or lady’s finger soup—they’re all the same.

21. Part of the Draw Soup Family

Okro and ogbono soup are close cousins in West African cuisine, thanks to their shared slimy texture.

22. Recipes You Can Try

Popular okro-based recipes include:

Plain okro soup

Oil-free okro soup

Okro/ogbono combo soup

Miyan kubewa

Fisherman soup

23. 11 Proven Health Benefits of Okro

Here’s what this incredible vegetable does for your body:

👁️ Improves eyesight

💉 Prevents diabetes

🤧 Relieves cough

🍽️ Boosts digestion

🚽 Prevents constipation

🔄 Stabilizes blood sugar

🧬 Promotes colon health

❤️ Reduces heart disease risk

⚖️ Aids weight management

🌬️ Treats lung inflammation

💇‍♀️ Promotes healthy skin and hair

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re enjoying it in a savory Nigerian soup or slicing it raw into salads, okro is a powerhouse of nutrients and healing properties. Don’t just eat it—celebrate it for all it offers!