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Cabbage (Brassica oleracea)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Brassicaceae
  • Common Names: Cabbage, Kale, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cauliflower (all cultivars of Brassica oleracea)
  • Parts Used: Leaves, seeds, sprouts

Description

Brassica oleracea is a highly diverse species that includes various nutrient-rich vegetables such as cabbage, kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. It has long been used in both culinary and medicinal traditions for its powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties. The plant is rich in sulfur compounds, vitamins, and fiber, making it beneficial for digestion, liver health, and immune function.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in traditional European herbal medicine for digestive health and wound healing.
  • Applied as a poultice to relieve pain and inflammation.
  • Consumed as a tonic to support liver function and detoxification.

Constituents

  • Glucosinolates (sulfur compounds)
  • Indole-3-carbinol
  • Flavonoids
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin K
  • Fiber

Actions

  • Antioxidant
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Detoxifying
  • Digestive tonic
  • Immunomodulating
  • Wound healing

Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive and Gut Health:
Cabbage juice has been traditionally used to heal ulcers, support gut lining integrity, and improve digestion.

2. Detoxification and Liver Support:
Rich in sulfur compounds, Brassica oleracea aids in liver detoxification and supports phase II detox pathways.

3. Anti-Inflammatory and Wound Healing:
Cabbage leaves are used as poultices for joint pain, mastitis, and inflammatory skin conditions.

4. Cardiovascular and Circulatory Support:
High in antioxidants and fiber, Brassica oleracea helps regulate cholesterol levels and supports heart health.

5. Cancer Prevention and Cellular Health:
Compounds like indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane have been studied for their potential to reduce cancer risk and support cellular function.

Preparation and Dosage

Juice:

  • 1/2 to 1 cup of fresh cabbage juice daily for digestive and ulcer healing support.

Infusion (Tea from Leaves):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried or fresh leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to 2 times daily.

Poultice:

  • Crushed fresh cabbage leaves applied externally for inflammation and pain relief.

Culinary Use:

  • Regular consumption of cabbage, kale, or broccoli provides ongoing health benefits.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Thyroid Function: Cruciferous vegetables contain goitrogens, which may affect iodine uptake; individuals with hypothyroidism should moderate intake.
  • Digestive Sensitivity: High fiber content may cause bloating or gas in some individuals.
  • Blood Thinners: High vitamin K levels may interfere with anticoagulant medications.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; supports digestion and detoxification.

Combinations

  • For Digestive Healing: Combine with marshmallow root and licorice.
  • For Liver Support: Combine with dandelion and milk thistle.
  • For Inflammation Relief: Combine with turmeric and ginger.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves should be collected when fully grown and fresh; seeds can be saved for sprouting.
  • Storage: Store fresh leaves in a cool, dry place; dried material in an airtight container.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Brassica oleracea’s role in reducing inflammation, supporting liver detoxification, and protecting against oxidative stress, reinforcing its traditional uses in herbal medicine.

Cabbage and its related cultivars remain highly valued in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for digestion, detoxification, and cellular health.