The scientific name of cheeseweed is Malvaparviflora. It is an annual perennial herb that belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is native to Europe, western and central Asia, and northern Africa. The cheeseweed has been introduced widely through cultivation. The color of cheeseweed is green when it is young and it turns brown when it is ripe. The flowering season of cheeseweed is from March to August. The size of the cheeseweed plant is up to 50 cm high. The propagation of cheeseweed is by seed.
The leaves of cheeseweed are circular and are 8 – 10 cm in diameter. The flowers of cheeseweed have 5 petals which are about 4 – 6 mm long, white or pink in color and they are twisted in the bud. The whole cheeseweed plant is emollient and pectoral. The cheeseweed can be used in the treatment of coughs and bladder ulcers. Also, it can be used as a home remedy for boils, running sores, and swellings.
The decoction of the roots or leaves of cheeseweed has been used as a hair rinse to remove dandruff and soften the hair. The leaves of cheeseweed can be consumed raw or cooked as a potherb. The cheeseweed has a mildly pleasant flavor, which makes it a very acceptable alternative to lettuce in salads. When cheeseweed is used in large doses, it can cause diarrhea due to its laxative properties. Here are some health benefits of cheeseweed:
Health Benefits of Cheeseweed
Contents
Anti-inflammatory properties:
The cheeseweed is one of the best anti-inflammatory plants. It can help to reduce the swelling and inflammation, while at the same time, it will stimulate more rapid healing.
Ability to increase immunity:
The cheeseweed has the power to boost the immune system by preventing bacterial infections and other foreign objects to affect the wounded areas.
Boosts digestion:
The cheeseweed has the ability to regulate the digestive system and it can help to relieve any strain on that organ system.
Prevents urinary tract infections:
The cheeseweed is one of the best alternatives to treat the burning sensations, frequency, and urgency in urination and pain in the lower abdomen, due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Also, it has diuretic properties, which can help to clean up waste from the kidneys. At the same time, it will prevent the development of stones in them.
Helps with constipation:
The cheeseweed has a component known as polysaccharide mucilage which is causing relaxation and lubrication of the intestinal walls and better absorption of food. Also, this substance can help to reduce gastric acidity which is causing stomach discomfort. When you eat cheeseweed or you consume it as a tea infusion, it can help you if you suffer from problems like intestinal cramps, irritable stomach, and constipation.
Prevents prostate cancer:
The cheeseweed is rich in chlorophyll, which is a green, anti-carcinogenic pigment that cleans out internal organs. It can help to prevent and heal prostate cancer. Also, this plant has a substance known as beta-sitosterol, which is known for its ability to prevent tumors in the prostate glands. Also, the cheeseweed can be used as a preventative measure for people who have a risk of developing prostate cancer.
Oral health:
The leaves of cheeseweed have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which can help to protect the gums and oral cavity from diseases and infection. The polyphenols which are present in this plant can help to prevent the development of bacterial plaque by their ability to fight against free radicals. You can use the cheeseweed as a mouthwash, so you will have an effective treatment for the oral cavity.
Anti-aging properties:
The cheeseweed extracts are used in many different cosmetic products, such as skincare products, makeup, and soaps because it has components that help against free radicals which can damage the skin cells and cause wrinkles. Vitamin A will give the skin a radiant and young look. Also, it is effective for hair care and it is recommended to be used by people with fragile hair, so add in your hair treatment goals.
