Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Brassicaceae (Cruciferae)
• Common Names: Watercress
• Parts Used: Leaves, stems, flowers

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Description

Nasturtium officinale, commonly known as watercress, is a fast-growing aquatic plant rich in vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Traditionally used as a nutrient-dense tonic, it has been valued for its blood-cleansing, digestive, and respiratory-supporting properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European folk medicine as a blood purifier and spring tonic.
• Consumed in ancient Rome and Greece to enhance stamina and mental clarity.
• Traditionally employed as a digestive aid and appetite stimulant.
• Used for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and chronic coughs.

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Constituents

• Glucosinolates
• Flavonoids
• Vitamins A, C, K
• Iron
• Iodine
• Calcium
• Sulfur compounds

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Actions

• Nutritive
• Expectorant
• Digestive stimulant
• Diuretic
• Antioxidant
• Blood tonic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Nutritional Tonic:
Rich in vitamins and minerals, watercress is used as a general health tonic to support vitality.

2. Blood Cleansing and Detoxification:
Traditionally used to purify the blood and support liver detoxification.

3. Digestive Health:
Stimulates digestion, aids in nutrient absorption, and helps with sluggish digestion.

4. Respiratory Support:
Used for its expectorant properties to ease mucus buildup and chronic coughs.

5. Skin and Hair Health:
Applied topically or consumed to promote clear skin and strong hair.

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Preparation and Dosage

Fresh Use (Salads & Juices):

• Leaves can be eaten raw in salads or blended into juices.

Infusion (Tea):

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

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied to minor wounds or skin conditions.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid excessive amounts due to its potential uterine-stimulating effects.
• Thyroid Conditions: High iodine content may affect thyroid function; use with caution.
• Kidney Disorders: Diuretic properties may strain kidney function in some individuals.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports digestion and blood purification.
• Ayurveda: Balances Kapha and Pitta, but excessive use may aggravate Vata.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Clears heat and phlegm, supports lung and liver function.

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Combinations

• For Blood Purification: Combine with burdock and dandelion.
• For Digestive Support: Combine with ginger and fennel.
• For Respiratory Health: Combine with mullein and thyme.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves are collected fresh throughout the growing season.
• Drying: Can be dried but best used fresh for maximum potency.
• Storage: Store dried leaves in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Nasturtium officinale’s antioxidant, blood-purifying, and digestive-stimulating properties, reinforcing its traditional uses.

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Watercress remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for detoxification, digestion, and respiratory support.