The nasturtium is an edible plant with great medicinal power. Its scientific name is Tropaeolum majus L. and it can be used to sanitize the body, prevent diseases, lower blood pressure and even help with weight loss.
It is a plant widely used to decorate the garden, due to the beauty of its flower.
In Brazil, it can be found by several different names, the best known being “chagas”, “capuchin” and “mastruço”.
With this plant, it is possible to produce tea, extracts and medicinal capsules that can be used in favor of health.
Table of Contents
What is it for: benefits of the Nasturtium
It’s antioxidant
Free radicals are malignant substances that damage our cells, cause premature aging and increase the risk of several serious diseases such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, Alzheimer’s, Parkinsonism and several degenerative and autoimmune diseases.
Nasturtium has antioxidant power , that is, by consuming it it is possible to inhibit the effect of free radicals .
Fight against microbes
Nasturtium is effective when it comes to combating and eliminating bacteria, viruses and fungi .
This is particularly due to two substances found in the composition: benzyl isothiocyanate and erucic acid, as they are metabolites that have antimicrobial activity.
it’s diuretic
The infusion made with this plant makes the body increase the urinary flow and eliminate, through the pee, malignant substances that may be harmful to the body.
It is noteworthy that the consumption of foods that have a diuretic effect are indicated to combat fluid retention, reducing measures in the abdomen region.
In addition, its use is of great influence when it comes to preventing urinary infections , as it sanitizes the urinary tract (including the kidneys).
It is a great source of minerals.
The Tropaeolum majus is a very rich plant in important minerals for good health and can be found both in the flower as in other parts of it.
Potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, zinc , copper and iron are the most prominent in its composition.
It is extremely important for the maintenance of tissues and bones in the body and also for the functions of vital organs.
Fights high blood pressure
The extract of the flowers and leaves of the nasturtium has hypotensive potential , that is, it reduces blood pressure .
They can serve as helpers in the treatment of this condition, but only after being released by a doctor.
In some cases, the use of hypotensive drugs and natural remedies can make the blood pressure too low. Only start taking it after hearing the opinion of a health professional.
it is expectorant
Who has never suffered from an accumulation of phlegm from a flu or a cough , right?
For these cases, the plant can be of great help, as it can be used to help treat various respiratory diseases where phlegm or mucus is present.
Helps to lose weight
Nasturtium is an anti-obesity plant, as its extract inhibits the accumulation of fat , the so-called “anti-adipogenic effect”.
How to make Nasturtium tea
Ingredients
- 250 ml of water
- 1 teaspoon (can be the flowers and leaves together).
Preparation mode
Boil the water, turn off the heat and add the properly sanitized herb. Cover and let stand 10 minutes. Then strain and drink without sweetening. (Sugar can alter or nullify the plant’s benefits).
Care and contraindications
The consumption of nasturtium showed toxic effects on the testicles of rats that consumed the plant in high proportions, which affects the production of sperm and, consequently, the chances of fertility. It is necessary to be careful not to exaggerate consumption, especially by men .
No other side effects or contraindications were found during the production of this text.
But it must be emphasized that the medicinal use of the Nasturtium should not be done on its own. Consult a health expert!
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.