Watercress is a leaf that brings health benefits such as preventing anemia, lowering blood pressure and maintaining eye and skin health. Its scientific name is Nasturtium officinale and it can be found in street markets and markets.
Watercress is a herb with a spicy flavor and can be grown at home for use in salads, juices, pates and teas. Its main health benefits are:
- Improve eye and skin health, due to the high content of vitamin A. Strengthen the immune system, because it is rich in vitamin C; Prevent heart disease such as heart attack and atherosclerosis, as it is rich in vitamins C and K; Prevent anemia, as it is rich in folic acid; Strengthen bones, due to the presence of vitamin K, which increases calcium absorption; Improve digestion and help you lose weight, as it is low in calories; Combat respiratory diseases, for having expectorant and decongestant properties; Potential anti-cancer effect, due to the presence of antioxidants and a substance called glucosinolate.
To obtain these benefits, one should consume half to one cup of watercress a day. Here's how to use watercress to fight cough.
Nutritional information
The following table provides the nutritional information for 100 g of raw watercress.
| Quantity: 100 g of watercress | |
| Energy | 23 calories |
| Proteins | 3.4 g |
| Fat | 0.9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.4 g |
| Fibers | 3 g |
| Vitamin A | 325 mcg |
| Carotenes | 1948 mg |
| Vitamin C | 77 g |
| Folates | 200 mcg |
| Potassium | 230 mg |
| Phosphor | 56 mg |
| Sodium | 49 mg |
It is important to remember that the excessive consumption of watercress can increase the risk of miscarriage, as well as irritations in the stomach and urinary tract, being contraindicated for women in early pregnancy and people with gastritis or kidney problems.
Watercress juice for the lung
This juice can be used during the treatment of diseases of the respiratory system such as cough, bronchitis and asthma.
Ingredients:
- 2 sprigs of watercress 200 ml of orange juice 5 drops of propolis
Preparation: beat all ingredients in a blender and take 3 times a day.
Watercress can also be eaten raw in salads and cooked in soups or meat dishes, giving a slightly peppery flavor to these dishes.
