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NASTURTIUM OFFICINALIS

WATERCRESS

Watercress is a floating or creeping water plant of the mustard family, Cruciferae. A perennial, it grows best in fresh water, particularly in cool streams and ponds, and in wet soil. Its round, edible leaves are pungent to the taste, and commonly used as salad greens or as a garnish. It is a rich source of vitamin C.

USES

 Sometimes recommended for gall bladder complaints and anemia.

 The bruised leaves are said to remove pimples and to fade freckling. Eat to help skin eruptions.

 Eat fresh daily: may help to prevent migraine. Eat with a meal if you have a tendency toward heartburn or dyspepsia.

 High levels of potassium may help to prevent insomnia—eat some fresh leaves an hour before bedtime, and often throughout the day.

 Watercress may help in the treatment of edema.

 It is used to treat respiratory ailments such as coughs, catarrh, and bronchitis—eat fresh until symptoms improve. It can be useful as a preventive measure for chronic respiratory conditions.

 Watercress may strengthen the whole body system in cases of debility caused by chronic illness.

PROPERTIES

 Contains benzyl mustard oil, which is powerfully antibiotic, but does not harm our healthy bacteria (flora)

 Beneficial to the health of the intestines

 Encourages immune activity in the body

 Provides good supplies of the vitamins C, A, and B (thiamine and riboflavin), iron, potassium, and calcium

 Stimulates digestion