Did you know that watercress is an incredibly nutritious vegetable that boasts more iron than spinach and a higher vitamin C content than lemons or oranges?
In addition to its impressive nutritional profile, watercress is packed with other beneficial compounds and offers a wide range of positive and healing effects on the human body.
However, despite its exceptional qualities, watercress was largely forgotten for generations. Originally hailing from Eurasia, it has now spread to nearly every corner of the globe.
The good news is that you can easily cultivate watercress on your windowsill in just 3 to 6 days. The brighter the spot you choose for it, the quicker it will flourish.
Growing watercress is a straightforward and speedy process. Simply place some cotton wool in a shallow dish, moisten it, and sprinkle it with small watercress seeds. Be sure to keep the cotton wool adequately moist to prevent it from drying out, as this can cause your watercress to turn yellow, become fragile, or even perish. You can harvest the crop and use it as a sandwich topping or add it to salads. Watercress has a slightly bitter, peppery flavor, with an aroma that occasionally resembles the depth of cabbage.
What Watercress Can Do for You:
A recent study suggests that watercress may be the healthiest vegetable on the planet.
You may be wondering why that is the case.
One reason is its exceptional ability to reduce oxidative stress within the body while increasing antioxidant levels in the blood.
Among its various internal benefits, consider the following:
- Cleanses the blood and blood vessels
- Boosts energy levels
- Stimulates the appetite
- Detoxifies the body and rids it of toxins
- Chewing this tiny plant can elevate your mood by triggering the release of the happiness hormone serotonin. Meanwhile, you’ll be strengthening your gums.
- Supports the functioning of the pancreas, liver, and gallbladder, aiding in the digestion of even fatty foods.
TIP: If you’re indulging in a heavy meal, you can balance it out with a salad that includes watercress.
Watercress juice is also highly effective for addressing skin issues. It can treat conditions like:
- Acne
- Eczema
- Rashes
- Hair loss
- Sunburn
All you need to do is juice the watercress and apply it to the affected areas on your skin.