Malavar spinach is what this nutritious organic superfood is commonly known. A green semi succulent that is believed to have originated in the tropical regions of Malavar coast of India and Africa.
Basella is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to basellaceae family and is not related to spinach. An edible and succulent organic superfood that is native to the India, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
There are two plant varieties, one with a deep green leaves and dark pink veins called basella rubra and the other with deep green leaves and green veins named basella alba. Unlike the regular spinach, which grows in bush, basella is a fast growing soft stemmed vine and have leaves that are heart shaped, slightly thicker and with mucilaginous texture. It exhibits tiny white clustered flowers.
In raw form, both basella and spinach tastes different, but when cooked you can hardly tell one from the other. The taste is rather pleasant, slightly peppery and a bit citrusy.
Remarkable nutrient and health benefits of basella.
It is an excellent source of dietary folate. A cup can deliver 13% of the daily recommended intake for an adult, enough to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Folate lower down the level of homocysteine in the blood, preventing the development of atherosclerosis, which damages the artery inner lining and causing blood clots.
In terms of calcium content, this organic superfood is 25% higher than the common spinach. This means helping you better in developing strong bones and teeth, maintain good heart beat and nerve transmission.
This vegetable also stores several carotenoid pigment antioxidants like lutein, zeaxanthi and beta-carotene, all working together to protect and rid your body of oxygen derived free radicals that damages the cells resulting in premature aging and development of various diseases.
Exceptional in supplying your gut with non-starch mucilage and fibers to facilitate smooth digestion and ease up bowel movement.
This amazing low calorie organic superfood also holds a considerable amount of vitamins and minerals as well as a good source of chlorophyll.
Other uses - Due to its astringent traits, the roots can be cooked and used in treating diarrhea, making a paste and applying externally can reduce swelling. Both leaves and stem are good laxative agents.
Food Safety.
Basella contain phytates which can interfere with the bio-availability of calcium and iron and although known to contain less oxalate, it is best to consume this leafy green in moderation and drink good amount of water for regular urine output.
Remember, no amount of washing and cleaning will remove pesticides and chemicals totally from crops, so it’s best to buy organically produced leafy green to lessen the risk.
Live a healthy lifestyle. Eat more organic superfood. Stay fit.
The article written here is for educational purpose only and is not meant to provide any medical advice. If you have an illness or medical condition, it would be best to consult first with your health care provider or family physician before undertaking any course of treatment.
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About Author
Ramon Mañego
Ramon Mañego is an author of Organic Superfoods Store. He has a vast knowledge in the subjects of health, fitness, and nutrition. He writes about information and ways to create a healthier lifestyle.
Em Portugues:
http://come-se.blogspot.com.br/2009/04/bertalha.html
https://www.facebook.com/1508754186081687/photos/pcb.1568444696779302/1568444673445971/?type=3&theater ENSAIOS CRUDI & VEG
http://paladar.estadao.com.br/noticias/comida,uma-praga-exotica-para-ser-devorada,10000007699
http://www.matosdecomer.com.
http://www.abhorticultura.com.br/biblioteca/arquivos/Download/Biblioteca/44_030.pdf
http://paladar.estadao.com.br/noticias/comida,uma-praga-exotica-para-ser-devorada,10000007699
http://www.matosdecomer.com.
http://www.abhorticultura.com.br/biblioteca/arquivos/Download/Biblioteca/44_030.pdf
