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Did you know that this super-healthy vegetable contains more iron than spinach and more vitamin C than a lemon or orange? Watercress is rich in many other beneficial substances and its list of positive and healing effects on the human body is almost endless.
What can watercress do?
According to a recent study, watercress is considered one of the healthiest herbs on the planet. So why is it so exceptional? Watercress is excellent for improving overall health because:
- It significantly reduces oxidative stress in the body and increases antioxidant levels in the blood.
- It cleans the blood and blood vessels, thereby supporting cardiovascular system health.
- It increases energy levels and stimulates appetite.
- It helps detoxify the body and removes toxins.
Watercress for skin health
Watercress is also very effective in addressing various skin problems. Watercress juice can treat:
- Acne
- Eczema
- Rashes
- Hair loss
- Sunburns
For better results it is recommended to apply watercress juice directly to the affected areas of the skin, or you can prepare compresses from ground watercress.
How to take watercress internally?
Watercress should be consumed fresh, because only in this state does it contain all its medicinal compounds. The best way is to drink the juice, which can be diluted with water at a ratio of 1:5. This beverage is recommended to be drunk every other day so the body has time to detoxify.
Watercress juice is very strong, so never drink it undiluted, as it could irritate the mucous membranes of the digestive tract.
The effect of watercress on cancer and cardiovascular disease
Current studies show that watercress may slow tumor growth and the spread of metastases, especially in breast cancer. It has also proven to be very effective in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases, such as high cholesterol or atherosclerosis.
Smokers should regularly consume watercress, because its regular consumption may help prevent the harmful consequences associated with smoking.
How to prepare a watercress salad?
To prepare a watercress salad, first thoroughly wash the watercress leaves in water, then place them in water with added salt and vinegar. Let them soak for about an hour. Then mix the watercress with chopped garlic, olive oil and lemon juice. Next add salt, black pepper and, if desired, other vegetables such as onion or tomatoes.
Let the salad stand in the refrigerator for about 3 hours and then it is ready to serve.
How to make a watercress poultice for the skin?
To prepare a watercress poultice for the skin, chop the watercress leaves into small pieces and grind them in a stone bowl so they release their juice. Before applying the poultice to the affected skin, first disinfect it with alcohol. Then apply the ground leaves to the affected area, bandage them with a dressing and secure with adhesive tape. Leave on for 2 to 4 hours. After this time remove the poultice and rinse the skin with cold water.
Watercress: Essential for your health!
If you decide to incorporate watercress into your diet, remember that fresh leaves are always the best choice to ensure optimal effect. Regular consumption of this herb will help improve skin health, support detoxification and enhance the body’s overall vitality.