HEALTH BENEFITS OF ASPARAGUS
Asparagus is a member of the lily family and the name comes from the Greek word meaning “shoot” or “sprout.” Now widely cultivated throughout the world, this vegetable is believed to have originated 2,000 years ago in the eastern Mediterranean region, where it was prized for its unique texture and alleged medicinal and aphrodisiacal qualities. Many species of asparagus were cultivated by Egyptian cultures beginning as early as 3000 B.C., and by European cultures including early Greek and Roman cultures. Asparagus also became particularly popular in France during the 18th century during the rule of Louis XIV. In terms of commercial production, China (587,500 tons) and Peru (186,000 tons) are currently the world’s largest producers and exporters of asparagus. Some of these species like Asparagus officinalis are widely cultivated and consumed as staple foods. Other species like Asparagus racemosus, widely found in India and the Himilayas have been used in a more medicinal context. In the case of Asparagus racemosus, also known as Shatavari, there is a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, especially in relationship to digestive problems.
Asparagus spears grow from a crown planted in sandy soils and, under ideal conditions, can grow 10 inches in a 24-hour period. The most common types are green, but you might see two others white, which is more delicate and difficult to harvest, and purple, which is smaller and fruitier. This giant veggie is one of the most nutritionally well-balanced vegetables high in folic acid and a good source of potassium, fiber, thiamin, and vitamins A, B6, and C.
NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS
Asparagus is an alkaline food which is rich in protein but low in calories and carbohydrates. It is an excellent source of potassium, folate, vitamins A, C and K, and traces of vitamin B complex. A good source of dietary fiber, asparagus is also rich in niacin, phosphorus and very low sodium. And certainly most impressive is that it is one of those few vegetables that actually has the calcium and magnesium in the ideal ratio of 2:1.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Asparagus has an abundance of an amino acid called asparagine, that helps to cleanse the body of waste material. As a result, some people’s urine may have a foul odor after eating asparagus. Don’t worry if this happens to you. Just be glad that your kidneys are getting a good cleansing. Asparagus is one of the few vegetables that is dense in healthful nutrients that help many ailments.
Acidity, Blood: The high alkalinity of this wonder juice is effective in reducing the acidity of the blood and helps cleanses the tissues and muscles of waste.
Arthritis and Rheumatism: A unique phytochemical in asparagus that produces anti-inflammatory effect helps relieve arthritis and rheumatism.
Bowel movement: Consume asparagus regularly for its mild laxative effect and dietary fiber that provides for regular bowel movement.
Cancer: Asparagus is a prime source of anti-oxidant and glutathione that can help prevent the dreaded cancer.
Cataracts: The anti-oxidant and glutathione in asparagus prevents the progression of cataracts and other eye problems.
Diabetes/Hypoglycemia: The healthful minerals in asparagus juice make it an important diet for people who are controlling their blood sugar levels. However, it is not to be taken by people with advanced kidney diseases.
Diuretic: Asparagus is a wonderfully diuretic vegetable and its efficacy is more pronounced when it is taken in juice form.
Heart disease: Drink a small amount of asparagus juice mixed with raw honey three times a day daily to strengthen a weak or enlarged heart.
Kidney: The diuretic and alkaline properties of asparagus help prevent or dissolve kidney stones. It helps break up oxalic acid crystals formed in the kidney.
PMS symptoms: The diuretic effect of asparagus juice helps relieve premenstrual swelling and bloating. The magnesium in this wonder juice also help relieve irritability, fatigue, depression, etc.
Pregnant women: The high content of folate, calcium and other minerals in asparagus are important in reducing the risk of birth defects and low birth weight. The diuretic effect of the juice is also a big help in reducing water retention in pregnant women.
