Endive is an edible vegetable belonging to the same family as Endive. It is also known as bitter Endive or bitter leaf.
Its consumption is associated with several positive effects for the body as it can greatly eliminate bacteria and parasites, bringing mainly dermatological benefits.
Get to know this and other benefits, the types of Endive, and the best way to consume the vegetable. Follow it below.
Table of Contents
Benefits of garlic for your health
Protects the skin
One of the Endive‘s most powerful medicinal benefits is its positive effects on the skin.
The extract from the root of this plant has protective and restructuring effects on the skin. Being an “innovative ingredient to improve the skin’s barrier function.”
Eliminates microbes from the body
Chimney is a powerful antibacterial and can prevent simple to more serious diseases.
In addition, it has antiviral action and can act as an auxiliary treatment for diseases caused by viruses.
Helps fight worms and parasites
The consumption of Endive also confers antiparasitic action.
This benefit positively impacts treating parasites that occupy the gastrointestinal tract and cause serious illnesses and symptoms.
Boosts immunity
By consuming the properties of the Endive, the body can increase its defenses against microbes and harmful agents, strengthening and stimulating the immune system.
In this way, the vegetable can prevent diseases and speed up medical treatments.
It has antioxidant properties.
Chimney is rich in antioxidant substances capable of improving the health of the body’s cells and preventing serious diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinsonism, and degenerative diseases in general.
This is because antioxidants fight free radicals, harmful substances that hinder the life cycle of cells and open the door to many health problems.
The consumption of antioxidant foods also helps fight and prevent premature aging, diabetes, hypertension, and autoimmune diseases.
Types of Endive
In addition to the common Endive, we can also find the following types:
- Purple hawthorn
- Almeirão Pão de Açúcar
- Almeirão Espadona (or Sword)
- Yellow leafy clam
- crispy chicken
- white chicken
- Broadleaf Chimney.
How to consume
Endive salad
This recipe is very easy to make and rich in nutrients. Learn by following the steps below:
- Wash the chili leaves and cut into strips.
- Place the leaves in a bowl.
- Add one clove of garlic, chopped into small pieces, salt to taste, the juice of ½ lemon, and one tablespoon of oil.
- Mix well.
Braised salad
- Wash the Endive leaves and chop (or cut into strips). Reserve.
- In a saucepan, saute ½ chopped onion in a drizzle of oil.
- When the onion starts to brown, add one crushed or chopped garlic.
- Also, add black pepper and salt to taste.
- Mix well to distribute flavor.
- Add the Endive and stir to sauté.
- After a few minutes, when everything is golden, turn off the heat and serve.
Contraindications
No scientifically supported contraindications were found regarding the consumption of almeirão. However, don’t overdo it, as any food (even if healthy) can be harmful when ingested in excess.
About the almeirão
The scientific name of the Endive is Cichorium intybus intybus, and it is a plant very similar to the common Endive, with the difference that it has longer and narrower leaves covered by little hairs and has a more bitter taste.
Despite being native to European territory, it can be found in several countries worldwide, including Brazil.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.