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Nasturtium Officinale Benefits

nasturtium officinale

Nasturtium officinale, commonly known as Indian cress or water cress, is a versatile plant that offers a multitude of health benefits.

Its leaves, flowers, and seeds are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, and other essential minerals, which help to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiovascular health.

The plant's antibacterial and antifungal properties also make it effective in fighting off infections, while its antiseptic properties can aid in wound healing and skin rejuvenation.

By incorporating Indian cress into your diet or using its extracts as a natural remedy, you can enjoy improved digestion, reduced stress levels, and enhanced overall well-being, leading to a happier and healthier everyday life.

Below there's a list of the 13 best health benefits of nasturtium officinale.

1. Treats digest issues

Nasturtium officinale treats digest issues because it is rich in bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and isothiocyanates, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate digestive discomfort.

The plant's ability to soothe digestive issues makes it beneficial for relieving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and stomach ulcers.

The isothiocyanates present in nasturtium officinale, particularly allyl isothiocyanate and 4-hydroxybenzyl isothiocyanate, have been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut, further contributing to its digestive benefits.

By promoting gut health and reducing inflammation, nasturtium officinale may help alleviate digestive issues and improve overall gastrointestinal well-being.

2. Cures skin rashes

Nasturtium officinale cures skin rashes because it contains bioactive constituents such as isothiocyanates, particularly allyl isothiocyanate, and flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin.

These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help alleviate skin rashes associated with conditions like eczema, acne, and dermatitis.

The antioxidant activity of these bioactive constituents also neutralizes free radicals that can exacerbate skin inflammation, promoting faster healing of the affected skin.

Additionally, nasturtium officinale's antihistamine properties can provide relief from itching and redness, making it a promising natural remedy for various skin rashes.

3. Relieves joint pain

Nasturtium officinale relieves joint pain because it is rich in bioactive constituents such as isothiocyanates, particularly 2-phenylethyl isothiocyanate, and flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin.

These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce swelling and pain in joints affected by conditions like arthritis, tendinitis, and bursitis.

The consumption of nasturtium officinale may also help alleviate symptoms associated with gout, fibromyalgia, and osteoarthritis, making it a valuable natural remedy for joint health.

By incorporating nasturtium officinale into one's diet, individuals can potentially experience relief from joint pain and inflammation.

4. Fights cancer cells

Nasturtium officinale fights cancer cells because it contains bioactive constituents such as isothiocyanates, specifically allyl isothiocyanate and 2-phenylethyl isothiocyanate, which have been shown to exhibit anti-cancer properties.

These compounds have been found to induce apoptosis and inhibit proliferation of cancer cells, as well as prevent the formation of new blood vessels that feed cancer growth.

As a result, this plant has been traditionally used to relieve ailments such as breast cancer, colon cancer, and prostate cancer, which are often associated with oxidative stress and inflammation.

The anti-cancer properties of nasturtium officinale make it a potential natural remedy for individuals seeking to prevent or manage these conditions.

5. Cures insect bites

Nasturtium officinale cures insect bites because it contains bioactive constituents such as isothiocyanates, specifically allyl isothiocyanate, and saponins, which possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

These compounds help to reduce the swelling and itching associated with insect bites, providing relief from the discomfort and pain caused by bites and stings.

The health benefit of curing insect bites is also related to the relief of ailments such as urticaria, eczema, and dermatitis, which are often triggered or exacerbated by insect bites.

By applying a paste or infusion made from the leaves and flowers of nasturtium officinale, individuals can quickly alleviate the symptoms of insect bites and promote a speedier recovery.

6. Treats cold sores

Nasturtium officinale treats cold sores because it contains bioactive constituents such as isothiocyanates, specifically allyl isothiocyanate, and indoles like indole-3-carbinol, which exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate the symptoms of cold sores.

This plant's health benefit can also relieve other ailments related to cold sore outbreaks, such as fever blisters, herpes simplex virus infections, and mouth ulcers.

The antimicrobial properties of nasturtium officinale's constituents help inhibit the replication of the herpes simplex virus, reducing the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks.

By addressing the underlying causes of cold sores, nasturtium officinale provides a natural remedy for the relief of related ailments, including fever, inflammation, and pain.

7. Reduces allergy symptoms

Nasturtium officinale reduces allergy symptoms because it contains bioactive constituents such as isothiocyanates, particularly benzyl isothiocyanate, and phenolic compounds like ferulic acid, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These compounds help in alleviating symptoms of allergies, including rhinitis and conjunctivitis, as well as asthma and respiratory issues related to allergies.

The consumption of nasturtium officinale or its extracts has been associated with a decrease in histamine release and an increase in the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, providing relief from allergy-related ailments such as hay fever and eczema.

By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, nasturtium officinale offers a natural approach to managing allergy symptoms.

8. Helps lower blood

Nasturtium officinale helps lower blood because it is rich in bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins that contribute to its vasodilatory and hypotensive effects.

The flavonoids, including kaempferol and quercetin, have been shown to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow, while the alkaloids, such as berberine, may help to reduce blood pressure and inflammation.

This health benefit is particularly relevant for individuals with hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and conditions such as Raynaud's disease, where improved blood flow and reduced blood pressure can alleviate symptoms and promote overall well-being.

By lowering blood pressure and improving circulation, nasturtium officinale may help to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular-related complications.

9. Treats kidney stones

Nasturtium officinale treats kidney stones because it contains bioactive constituents such as isothiocyanates, specifically allyl isothiocyanate, and flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with kidney stones.

This plant's ability to treat kidney stones also makes it beneficial for individuals suffering from related ailments such as urinary tract infections, cystitis, and prostatitis.

The flavonoids present in nasturtium officinale may also help to prevent the formation of kidney stones by inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria that contribute to their development.

By reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy urinary tract, nasturtium officinale offers a natural and holistic approach to managing kidney stone symptoms.

10. Cures migraines headaches

Nasturtium officinale cures migraines headaches because it is rich in bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and isothiocyanates, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

These compounds, including trigonelline and vitexin, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and relax blood vessels, thereby reducing the severity of migraines and headaches.

Related ailments that may be relieved by this benefit include tension headaches, cluster headaches, and sinus pressure, as well as conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) and fibromyalgia.

By consuming nasturtium officinale or applying its extracts topically, individuals may experience relief from these debilitating conditions and improve their overall quality of life.

11. Reduces stomach ulcers

Nasturtium officinale reduces stomach ulcers because it contains bioactive constituents like isothiocyanates, particularly allyl isothiocyanate, and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help alleviate stomach inflammation and protect the mucous lining of the stomach.

This health benefit is particularly relevant for individuals suffering from conditions like gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), as it can help reduce inflammation, prevent bleeding, and promote healing.

The isothiocyanates present in nasturtium officinale have been shown to inhibit the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that contributes to stomach ulcers.

By incorporating nasturtium officinale into their diets, individuals can potentially reduce their risk of developing stomach ulcers and alleviate related symptoms.

12. Treats asthma attacks

Nasturtium officinale treats asthma attacks because it contains bioactive constituents such as isothiocyanates, specifically allyl isothiocyanate and 2-phenylethyl isothiocyanate, which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties.

These properties help to alleviate symptoms of asthma, including wheezing and shortness of breath, making it beneficial for individuals who suffer from bronchitis, COPD, and other respiratory conditions.

The anti-inflammatory effects of nasturtium officinale may also provide relief from related ailments such as allergies, sinusitis, and pneumonia.

By incorporating nasturtium officinale into one's diet or using it as a supplement, individuals may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.

13. Cures kidney infections

Nasturtium officinale cures kidney infections because it contains bioactive constituents such as isothiocyanates, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat bacterial and fungal infections in the kidneys.

The presence of these compounds, including allyl isothiocyanate and beta-carotene, enables the plant to effectively combat the underlying causes of kidney infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and pyelonephritis.

This health benefit also extends to alleviating related ailments like painful urination, frequent urination, and blood in the urine, as well as more severe conditions like kidney stones and sepsis.

By harnessing the power of nasturtium officinale, individuals can potentially prevent kidney damage and promote overall urinary tract health.