Watercresses (Nasturtium officinale, N. microphyllum; formerly Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum,R. microphylla) are fast-growing, aquatic or semi-aquatic, perennial plants native from Europe to centralAsia, and one of the oldest known leaf vegetablesconsumed by human beings. These plants are members of the Family Brassicaceae or cabbagefamily, botanically related to garden cress and mustard— all noteworthy for a peppery, tangy flavour.
Watercress is from the Cruciferae or mustard family. Its natural habitat is Europe and Asia Minor where it grows by spring , flat banks, wet meadows and ditches. Watercress, a perennial, grows wild in America and starts to sprout in the spring. The plant is bright green in color and leaves grow from nodules along the main stem. They are roundish oval in shape and the white flowers bloom in early summer and grow on tips of stems in loose clusters. The name nasturtium is derived from the Latin words nasus tortus which means convulsed nose, referring to the smell.
Health Benefits of Watercress
- Watercress contains anticancer properties.
- Watercress helps protect the eyes because it contains a high level of two carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin.
- Watercress helps to normalize cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Watercress increases sexual energy and enhances fertility.
- Watercress can help improved memory, mental function and to retard ageing.
- Watercress is a powerful cleanser of the body, especially the bloodstream.
- Watercress can help increase production of breast milk.
- Watercress helps improve digestion by regulating the flow of bile.
- Watercress is valued for clearing and improving the complexion.
- The chlorophyll-rich leaves are chewed to absorb breath odors.
- Chewing raw watercress leaves can cure bleeding gums.
- Watercress leaves are used as a poultice for the relief of enlarged prostate gland. The poultice can also treat swollen feet and sprained ankles.
- Watercress is a good source of iodine, which is important to the function of the thyroid gland.
- Watercress is rich calcium which can strengthen the bones and teeth.
