The scientific name of sorrel is Rumex acetosa. It is native to Europe and North Asia. Many people have never heard about sorrel before. Sorrel is a perennial herb. Also it is known as sour grabs, grass, spinach dock and sheep sorrel. It is often confused with hibiscus and spinach. It has reddish – green flowers and spade – shaped leaves. Sorrel flowers turn purple after they full bloom which denotes their acidic nature. Sorrel seeds are brown in color. Sorel leaves have distinct and flavorful taste which sets the sorrel leaves apart. These leaves are full of nutrients. Sorrel is rich in Vitamins, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2 and Vitamin B9. Also it has oxalic acid which causes its sour taste. It is rich in iron, sodium, phosphorus, calcium and potassium. Also it is rich in flavonoids. This natural cure has a good amount of oxalic acid which is decreasing the body’s ability to absorb calcium and this leads to formation of kidney stones. You should not cook sorrel leaves with iron or aluminum cookware because the acid reacts with metal and it makes it inedible and toxic. If you consume sorrel in high amounts, then it can cause liver diseases, dizziness, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain and diarrhea. Also people who suffer from asthma or skin diseases should avoid sorrel. Here are some health benefits of sorrel leaves:
Sorrel leaves help maintain renal health
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Sorrel leaves are perfect natural cure for your kidneys. They have diuretic properties which can help to maintain the kidney health. They will stimulate the flow of urine which will ensure detoxification of the kidneys.
Strengthens immunity
You should consume sorrel leaves on regular basis because this can help to protect your body from toxins and harmful elements. Sorrel leaves have Vitamin C which can help to optimize and strengthen the immunity. It has ascorbic acid which can help to increase the white blood cell count and antibodies and also this can protect your body from foreign invasion.
Sorrel leaves boosts energy
Sorrel is rich in iron which can help to boost the production of red blood cells. This will increase the blood circulation in your body. Also it can increase the oxygen supply in your body which can help to boost the energy levels.
Enhances your digestive health
You can add sorrel leaves to your salads, soups and drinks because this can prevent many conditions like diarrhea, bloating, constipation and many other gastrointestinal problems. These leaves are full of dietary fiber which adds bulk to the stools and this makes the bowel movement easier. This can help to reduce the cholesterol levels in the body.
Treats anemia
There are many women who become anemic due to post pregnancy, heavy bleeding during periods or lack of nutrition. Sorrel leaves are rich in phosphorus, sodium and iron and also have chlorophyll. This will help to increase the hemoglobin levels in your body and this is a reason why it is beneficial for people who suffer from anemia.
Sorrel leaves strengthens bones
Bones need calcium to be strong so you can include sorrel leaves in your diet because they are rich in calcium. Sorrel leaves are very helpful for women because their bones become weak when they reach their 30s.
Heals wounds
Sorrel leaves have anti – inflammatory properties which can help in the treatment of wounds. Sorrel leaves can be used as a natural treatment for scorbutic diseases, swelling, boils and ulcers. Also it can be used as antidote for scorpion poison.
Makes your hair healthy
These leaves are excellent tonic for your mane. They can make your hair lustrous, strong and healthy. These leaves are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin B and Vitamin C. The mentioned vitamins are very effective for the dry and damaged hair. Sorrel leaves can help to prevent and stop the hair fall and treat the baldness.
Reduces cold sores and fever blisters
Fever blisters and cold sores are usually happening around the lips and mouth and the skin around them is painful and sore. These leaves are rich in polymeric and oligomeric proanthocyanidins which have been proven to be helpful in the treatment of fever blisters and cold sores.
