Garden Cress is a very effective herb, that belongs to the mustard family. It is known as chandrashura in Sanskrit. Chandrashura is a Sanskrit word, that literally means "that which makes people happy by providing strength, immunity, and nutrition". Both its seeds and leaves are used to prepare many Ayurvedic medications. Garden cress pacifies excessive Vata and Kapha dosha. This is why it is used in various Kapha and Vata related disorders.
The seed is smooth, reddish-brown, small oval-shaped pointed and triangular, 1.5-3mm long. A slight wing-like extension present on both the edges of the seed, when soaked in water seed coat swells and gets covered with transparent mucilage.
Garden Cress seeds are full nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, protein, iron, folic acid, and dietary fiber. These seeds are available in almost all parts of the world. Its high nutritional value and easy availability make it possible for people in all the sections of society to include them in their diet and increase the nutritive value of their meals.
Garden Cress can be added to soups, sandwiches, and salads for its tangy flavor. · It is also eaten as sprouts, and the fresh or dried seed pods can be used as a peppery seasoning ·
Garden Cress has been proven useful for
Weight Loss
The proteins present in Garden Cress seeds tend to increase the feeling of satiety. The hunger hormone ghrelin makes sure that you do not overeat. Leading to a reduction in hunger and is one of the main reasons protein helps you lose weight. So if you are adding Garden Cress seeds to your salads, be ready to stay fuller for longer.
Menstrual Cycle
These seeds are rich in phytochemicals being similar to estrogen, thus known to help in regulating the menstrual cycle. However, it is recommended, especially for young girls, to consult their gynecologist before consuming garden cress regularly.
Mucus reduction and Respiratory disorders
Garden cress is useful in removing excess mucus from the body. This is why it’s used for various respiratory issues in Ayurveda. It has been known to prevent Asthma. The symptoms of asthma can be remarkably lowered by including Garden Cress seeds to the diet as the presence of an active compound aids in improving the lung functions
Digestive health
Garden cress helps improve digestive strength, so used in managing problems like low digestive fire and improper digestion of food. It has carminative properties and it is useful for gas and bloating
Cures Anemia
Due to its high quality and quantity of iron and folic acid, it helps to overcome iron deficiency anemia. Garden cress seeds being the richest source of non-haem iron. It is advisable to have vitamin C half an hour after the consumption of these seeds as it enhances iron absorption.
Galactagogue
High nutritive content of cress seeds. It is given to especially to postpartum mothers and lactating mothers as it enhances milk production.
Boosts Memory
Garden Cress seeds are abundant in essential fats, such as linolenic acids and arachidonic fatty acids. This combination of good fats functions as an excellent memory-booster.
Good For Skin And Hair Health
It is super rich in protein and other essential minerals such as iron and magnesium that prevent hair loss, you can either eat it or apply the paste on the hair, for a naturally shiny hair.
Comments