Cabbage seeds

Botanical name: Brassica oleracea

Origins and history

Cabbage has been cultivated for thousands of years The current name comes from the French word "Caboche", which means "head", referring to the round shape of the vegetable. The Celts imported it to Europe from Asia in 600 BC. approximately. Since it grew well in cold climates and produced large harvests during the winter, the spread of the cabbage was rapid and highly successful, as the vegetable made a wonderful addition to the diet of rural people.

The ancient Romans loved it and used it for different purposes. Caesar's armies used it not only to eat it, but also to heal wounds. Its variety was developed during the Middle Ages by farmers in Northern Europe. Brussels sprouts, broccoli and turnips are considered "cousins" of Cabbage.

Nutritional and beneficial properties of Cabbage

In 100 g of cabbage there are: 25 g calories, 6 g of carbohydrates (of which 2.5 g of fiber and 3.2 g of sugar), 1.3 g of protein, 18 mg of sodium, 170 mg of potassium , 0.1 g of fat. It also contains Vitamins A, D, C, B12, B6, Calcium, Iron and Magnesium

It is known to be packed with beneficial nutrients. Among these is sulforaphane, a powerful anti-tumor. Numerous researches have shown that the consumption of this type of vegetable has been associated with a lower risk of cancer. More recently, researchers have been able to identify cruciferous vegetables, so called because of their four-petalled flowers that resemble a cross, foods to be included in a diet for the prevention of certain types of cancer, such as melanoma, cancer of the esophagus, prostate and pancreas.

Furthermore, its flavonoid content may be useful in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, preventing the accumulation of platelets and decreasing blood pressure. Cabbage is also rich in probiotics, which are great for the immune and digestive systems.

Its fiber and water content helps prevent constipation and promotes intestinal regularity, which is essential for the daily expulsion of toxins.

Use of cabbagne in the kitchen

Cabbage can be eaten raw, steamed, boiled, fried, stuffed.

Its characteristic sulphurous smell develops only when it is overcooked.

Excellent for weight loss is cabbage soup, followed by those who want to burn fat and achieve visible results in a short time. This is a quick way to get fit and lose pounds in just one week. The soup diet is very strict. The idea is to eat it at will, combining it every day with different foods, such as fruit, vegetables, milk, rice or chicken. Drinks are limited to water and unsweetened fruit juices, on fruit allowed days, while alcohol is not allowed. The ingredients for the soup vary from recipe to recipe, but typically it is based on cabbage, onions, tomatoes, green peppers, celery, carrots, mushrooms. Overall, the meal is deficient in essential proteins, carbohydrates and fats, but since the diet should only be followed for seven days, it should not cause long-term problems in healthy individuals.

Suitable, however, even for the little ones is the recipe that includes this vegetable for the preparation of delicious meatballs , or the one that sees fried cabbage in a crunchy batter or gratin baked in the oven.

Curiosities

Traditionally, cabbage was used to treat osteoarticular inflammation and sprains. Modern studies show that this vegetable actually also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, it is possible to create an immediate pack with the leaves and bandage the affected part. This quick and simple bandage accelerates healing.

Excellent as a remedy against gastric ulcer, but also as a detoxifying cure is, instead, the fresh juice of this cruciferous tree, to be prepared with the help of a centrifuge. Not only for health, but also for beauty, kale can be of great help in toning and regenerating dry skin.

It is possible to create low-cost cosmetics at home, to be kept in the fridge and ready to use when needed. It is advisable to use them within a few days from the date of preparation. The juice, on the other hand, is useful for remedying sunburn, chapping and acne.