Salsify has many health benefits, such as positively affect bone mineral density; increase the metabolism; improve numerous elements of your digestive health; increase circulation; stimulate hair growth; boost the immune system and ability to lower the blood pressure. Salsify is the name which is given to a few different plants in two different genera and both of them belong to the sunflower family called Asteraceae.
The black salsify or Spanish salsify is the more popular and common variety and its scientific name is Scorzonera hispanica. Salsify is grown as a root vegetable and it has large and broad leaves which are above ground and a long, tapered, black root which sometimes is up to a meter long. The fleshy interior of this root is edible portion and the black skin of this root is usually removed before preparation. Salsify is native to Southern Europe and the Middle East but the actual origin of it is Spain.
There are rare cases when you can see salsify outside of Europe, or even the United Kingdom, as the conditions for growing there are not ideal. But salsify remains very popular in the Belgium, Netherlands, Germany and other central and southern European countries. You can eat salsify as a normal vegetable and it is quite complementary to peas and carrots, usually after boiling and removing the skin.
Health benefits of salsify
Improves bone strength: The salsify has high amounts of manganese, iron, copper, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium which are very important for a strong mineral base for the developing bone tissue. Also, Vitamin C is playing an important role in the bone creation process. When you have sufficient bone mineral density, then you can prevent the development of common and age – related conditions, like osteoporosis and even arthritis. Both conditions can happen when the bones begin to degrade and collagen no longer maintains the integrity of your joints.
Boosts immune system: Salsify is rich in Vitamin C which in combination with other vitamins and minerals can help to improve the metabolic efficiency and functionality throughout the body. Also, this can help to boost the immune system. Vitamin C can stimulate the white blood cells. Vitamin A functions as antioxidant and B vitamins can help to increase enzymatic functions and regulate hormones. It is rich in nutrients so they can help to almost every organ in the body which means that your body will work in top form.
Improves circulation and hair health: Salsify has high levels of copper and iron which means that it can help to improve your circulation because both minerals are essential for the creation of red blood cells. When you have more red blood cells, then this means more oxygenation to important tissues and organs, including the follicle beds. It has been shown that salsify can help to stimulate the re-growth of hair. Also, copper can help to increase the hair strength and to reduce the premature graying.
Improves digestion: There are many different ways in which It can help to boost the health of your digestive system. In a single serving of salsify there are about 20% of your daily recommended amount of dietary fiber which is essential for stimulating the passage of food through your body, easing bowel movements, decreasing constipation and preventing more serious conditions, like gastric ulcers. It has a fiber in a form of inulin which is relatively rare prebiotic fiber which can increase the growth of bifidobacteria in the gut. This can help to reduce cancer – causing agents in the gut and it will maximize the efficiency of nutrient absorption and it will give a boost to your immune system.
Regulates blood pressure: Salsify has high levels of potassium and low levels of sodium which means that it can help to improve the blood pressure problems by relaxing the blood vessels, reducing the strain on the cardiovascular system and preventing chances of strokes, heart attacks and blood clots. Potassium can help to build strong bones.
