The nasturtium is a plant and the parts which grow above the ground are used in making medicines. It is also known by other names, such as common nasturtium, climbing nasturtium, garden nasturtium and Indian crea. The Latin name of this plant is Nasturtium officinale. This herb was introduced in Europe from Peru in the 1600s but it was used as a medicinal plant for a long time in South America.
This plant is native to South America, especially in Peru and Bolivia. Nowadays, nasturtium is cultivated all around the world as an ornamental plant. The leaves of this plant are more or less circular with distinct veins, flowers and large helmet – shaped and of orange, yellow or red color. Usually, the fresh or dried leaves, the seed pods and flowers of this plant are used.
There are many people who take this plant along with other herbs for swollen airways, bronchitis, cough and urinary tract infections. There are many cases when nasturtium is directly applied to the skin in combination with several other herbs as a treatment for mild muscular pain. It has Vitamin C which can help in the fight against tumors, fungi, viruses and bacteria. It is not safe for children to use this plant by mouth. There are not enough evidences which can show that this plant is safe for children when it is applied directly to the skin. It can be safe for adults when it is directly applied to the skin along with other natural remedies.
The nasturtium is rich in carotinoids, oxalates, flavonols, ascorbic acid, Vitamin C and glucosinolates. The seeds, flowers and leaves of the plant are edible. The flowers of this plant are picked soon after they appear while the leaves are collected when needed. The seeds of this plant are harvested as soon as they are ripe because the mature seeds often have a bitter taste.
It is not recommended more than 30 grams of fresh nasturtium per day if it is used for medicinal purposes. The appropriate dosage of this plant can depend on several factors, such as the ailment, health and age so talk with your doctor before you start consuming it.
Health benefits of the nasturtium
Promotes the red blood cell formation: It is known fact that the nasturtium is beneficial in promoting the formation of red blood cells. It has been used in the traditional medicine as a home remedy against scurvy.
Helpful in the treatment of cuts: The nasturtium can be used for reducing external and internal bacterial infections. Also, it can be used as a treatment for scrapes and minor cuts.
Immunity booster: The nasturtium is rich in Vitamin C which can boost the immune system and it can be used to enhance the immunity. It can be used as a natural remedy for the body to overcome and prevent influenza and common cold.
Good for the hair health: This plant has been widely used as a remedy for hair loss and also for the stimulation of growth of hair. You can mix one cup of nasturtium, nettle and rosemary in 2 liters of water and heat for fifteen minutes. Then, you should cool it, strain it and then massage the mixture in to scalp and rinse the hair after that. You should put the left over in refrigerator and use it next time.
Relives muscle pain: In the traditional medicine, the nasturtium has been used for the treatment of muscle pain. You can use this natural cure directly on your skin to treat the mild muscle pain.
Good for respiratory health: In the traditional medicine, the nasturtium leaves have been used as antibiotic. If one leaf is eaten per hour, at the onset of a sore throat, then it can reduce the severity of the infection in a drastic way. In the South America, the leaves of this plant are still used for the treatment of sore throat, bronchitis, flu, coughs and colds.
Treatment of urinary tract infections: It is known that this plant can be used as herbal remedy for urinary tract infections and the infections of urinary tract. This is possible because the nasturtium anti – bacterial, as well as anti – viral properties. It can help to prevent the development of any urinary tract infections and any symptoms which are related to it.
