Rediscovering pride in agricultural heritage in response to COVID-19 pandemic in Zimbabwe

Description

The books seeks to address alternative approaches to reduce escalating numbers of current Covid-19 patients and death by introducing nutrient intervention through rediscovering of pride in agriculture through cultivation of African Indigenous Vegetables (AIVs), as climate acquiescent vegetables, immune and health in response to COVID-19 pandemic in Zimbabwe. AIVs have great potential to improve immune response by supplementing dietary requirements (micronutrients) of an individual and can have a positive impact on COVID-19 outcome as they play a significant role in the immune system. Nutrients play a central role in supporting the immune system, providing antiviral defences, overcoming gut microbial dysbiosis and in calming cytokine storm. Individuals with underlying conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and suppressed immune systems are particularly susceptible to severe symptoms and mortality. AIVs have antifungal, acaricidal, antiviral, anticancer and act as immune stimulants. With their ability to grow in diverse environments with minimum resources, traditional vegetables can support conventional agricultural practices, and provide insurance against drought and crop failure. Findings from the reviewed literature in the book recommends persuasive research based information, suitable national legislation and information campaigns on cultivation and consumption of AIVs in Zimbabwe.