We as kids loved the idea of spinach- Admit it; it was because of Popeye- the sailor man who fed this idea into our brains that consuming spinach gives instant energy and intellect by bulging our muscles. Although we were disappointed when our muscles didn’t bulge, but we all slowly understood that it was nothing like bulging our muscles that spinach worked, it in fact worked internally by providing all the necessary nutrients- Iron, Vitamins, Manganese, Magnesium etc.,
Spinach is of Persian origin, which by 12th century spread across Europe and became a desirable leafy green known for good health. Sometimes, also called as Florentine.
Spinach is available all year round, but it is in seasons during the spring (March – June). It is well known for its nutritional qualities and has always been regarded as a plant with remarkable abilities to restore energy, increase vitality and improve the quality of the blood as it is rich in iron, which plays a central role in the function of red blood cells in transporting oxygen around the body. Besides that spinach is also an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C and folic acid as well as being a good source of manganese, magnesium, iron and vitamin B2.
Dark green color of spinach leaves indicates they contain high levels of chlorophyll and health promoting carotenoids which have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous properties and are especially important for healthy eye-sight.
Which cooking spinach ALWAYS opt for steaming, sautéing or microwaving rather than boiling to preserve the nutrients up-to its maximum capacity.
Spinach is generally paired with nutmeg or garlic, with any dairy product, fish and meat. You can also steam or add to salads and soups or make a Spinach Soup.
The potential of spinach was recognized by Ayurveda for centuries. It has been used for the treatment of a range of health disorders for ages and hence considered to be one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda.
Some of the best medicinal uses of spinach can be described as:
• In ayurveda, spinach has been referred as an excellent cooling medicine that is known to enhance the complexion of a person.
• It is also an excellent treatment to headache by bandaging spinach leaves onto the forehead.
• Spinach is a rich source of folate and thus quite effective in lowering the blood pressure and any kind of inflammation in blood vessels.
• Neoxanthin is a carotenoid present in spinach possess the property of the self-destruction of cancerous cells. Thus, consumption of spinach helps you to fight human prostate cancer.
• It is a rich source of vitamin K and hence stimulates bone health of the body.
• Magnesium, present in spinach is known to lower the high blood pressure.
• Vitamin C and beta-carotene in spinach is very effective in controlling the damaging affect of free radicals.
• In addition to that, spinach is best known to enhance the eyesight.
• Leutin, present in spinach makes it the most effective for the treatment of cataracts, as well as age related macular degeneration, and thus prevents from blindness in the elderly.
• The flavonoids present in spinach help you to protect against age related memory loss.
By: Archa Dave
