People have used the amazing healing powers of cabbage for centuries. This cruciferous veggie is low in calories but high in fiber and various nutrients.
According to Rachael Link, MS, RD:
“Cruciferous vegetables are vegetables that belong to the Brassicaceae family of plants. These plants get their name from the New Latin word “Cruciferae,” which means cross-bearing, due to the cross-like shape of their flowers. Native to Europe, the Mediterranean and the temperate regions of Asia, these vegetables have amassed widespread popularity and are now cultivated around the world.
Although the individual nutrition profiles can vary, cruciferous vegetables tend to be high in vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K as well as dietary fiber. Cruciferous vegetables are also unique because they possess sulfur-containing compounds called glucosinolates, which have been shown to have cancer-fighting properties. They have also been linked to a long list of health benefits, including improved heart health, increased weight loss and reduced inflammation.”
Cabbage has a myriad of medicinal qualities, and it effectively improves bone and colon health, effectively fights inflammation, prevents digestive disorders, and treats peptic ulcers.
It can be of three types: (red/purple, green and Savoy), and Savoy cabbage is known as a natural way to prevent cancer, as it is rich in sinigrin, one of the glucosinolates, that has been found to ward off bladder, colon and prostate cancer.
Here are several other health benefits of cabbage:
- Blood-building: People who suffer from anemia should drink a glass of raw cabbage juice daily, as the high levels of chlorophyll and the blood-building properties will improve blood quality.
- Wound healing: The strong anti-inflammatory properties soothe swollen cuticles or glands, sore spots, wounds, and even blisters.
- Heal peptic ulcer: Cabbage recipe is one of the most effective ways to treat peptic ulcer.
- Stomach and colon detox: Fresh raw cabbage juice cleanses the stomach treat diarrhea, and fights inflammation in the intestines.
- Liver detox: Cabbage cleanses the liver, relieve headaches due to liver intoxication, and reduce the effects of dehydration.
- Weight loss: Cabbage has potent detoxifying and diuretic effects that improve regularity and help weight loss.
In order to get the most out of this vegetable, you should consume it in a juice form, raw, or steamed.