The substances behind the slimy strings from okra and the gel from fenugreek seeds could trap microplastics better than a commonly used synthetic polymer. Previously, researchers proposed using these sticky natural polymers to clean up water. Now, they report in ACS Omega that okra and/or fenugreek extracts attracted and removed up to 90% of microplastics in ocean water, freshwater and groundwater.
  • parricc@lemmy.worldEnglish
    8·
    2 months ago

    In Asia, there’s what’s called Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai okra, but those are actually in a completely different plant family than actual okra and closely related to squash. If picked while immature, they’re said to taste similar to actual okra. You can find them in Asian markets. They’re in the luffa genius and if fully grown, they’re used like sponges for scrubbing.