Mustard greens are the leaves of the Brassica juncea plant, a plant in the same genus as that which includes the plants which produce famously piquant seeds which are ground into mustard, a very popular condiment. Mustard greens possess the same zesty, peppery, striking flavor which people associate with mustard. They can be consumed both raw and cooked, depending on the cultivar, and they are usually available in the produce section of markets. You can also grow mustard greens at home if you want to create a steady supply of them; they will thrive in almost any climate as long as there is at least a month of reasonably nice weather.
Health Benefits Of Eating Mustard Greens
- Mustard greens are very valuable in the prevention and cure of the reversible airway obstructive disorder, asthma and certain other immune-related disorders. The vitamin C present in the vegetable is responsible for this. This vitamin neutralizes the free radicals that cause smooth muscle contraction and airway obstruction in asthma. Also, it assists in the breakdown of the inflammatory chemical called histamine, which is overproduced in these conditions.
- Adding to the beneficial effect of vitamin C in curing asthma is the mineral magnesium, which is also present in the vegetable. It helps the smooth muscle cells lining the walls of the bronchial tubes and lungs stay relaxed and avoid any constriction. This mechanism is very important in the prevention of this condition.
- One feature for which mustard greens are especially known for is that they are a rich source of three vitamins (E, C, and A) which popular anti-oxidizing agents. These nutrients combine to act against certain free radicals that are produced in the body and thus, help prevent a host of ailments and diseases. This includes the prevention of asthmatic conditions, heart diseases and certain menopausal symptoms.
- Consumption of pro-vitamin A, in the form of mustard greens, is very important, especially if you are a smoker or get exposed to second-hand smoke. This is due to the fact that the vitamin helps in the prevention of lung inflammation and subsequently emphysema, by counteracting the harmful effects of a carcinogen present in cigarette smoke, benzo(a)pyrene.
- The unique combination of nutrients present in the vegetable is very effective for preventing disorders related to the cardio-vascular system. The vitamin E present in the vegetable helps reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, by protecting the oxidation of LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein or bad cholesterol) and decreasing the clumping of platelets.
- Consumption of vitamin E and vitamin C, present in mustard greens, inhibits the oxidation of LDL and HDL, by associating with an enzyme called paraoxonase.
- The magnesium present in the vegetable is necessary for maintaining the normal blood vessel tone and function. Thereby, they help in reducing high blood pressure levels and subsequently, the risk of heart diseases.
- A diet consisting of a regular intake of vitamin C-rich foods, like mustard greens, provides defense against inflammatory polyarthritis, a type of Rheumatoid Arthritis involving two or more joints.
- Certain phytonutrients present in the vegetable reduce the effect of harmful carcinogens and promote optimal health and well-being. These are known as glucosinolates. They combine with an enzyme called myrosinase (present in plants) and get converted into certain active compounds, called ndoles or isothiocyanates. It is these compounds that act against the harmful carcinogens.
