Arugula (arugula) is a herb belonging to the cabbage family. In cooking, this herb is used mainly in salads, as well as in seasonings for meat dishes, as it has a very rich and pungent taste. In addition, arugula has found its application in medical practice.
Arugula is a widespread plant with a pungent mustard flavor and a rich vitamin composition - it contains vitamins B, C, E, beta-carotene and vitamin K, which increases blood clotting, therefore, it is necessary for wound healing. In addition, arugula contains minerals such as iron, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, and copper. This herb has a diuretic, expectorant effect, and is also used to stimulate lactation in lactating women. Arugula increases hemoglobin levels, so it can be used as an adjunct to the treatment of iron deficiency anemia.
100 g of arugula contains almost the daily requirement of vitamin K.
Also, arugula improves digestion, is used in the treatment of gastritis and gastric ulcer. Thanks to the substances in its composition, it helps to increase the body's resistance to various infections and colds, somewhat lowers blood sugar levels, therefore it is useful for people suffering from diabetes. In folk medicine, arugula is used as a means to prevent the development of cancer, to combat hypertension and venous insufficiency.
Arugula is low in calories and stimulates the metabolism, so it is an excellent helper for people on a diet. It contains a sufficient amount of fiber and, thanks to this, gives a feeling of fullness, and since it is high in vitamins and minerals, it helps to maintain performance throughout the day.
100 g of the plant contains only 25 kcal.
In cooking, both the leaves and the seeds of the plant are used. The seeds contain mustard oil, which is used for dressing salads, and the leaves can be used as a stand-alone dish or as a side dish. Arugula goes well with meat and vegetables, improves the taste of fish dishes, it can be used for making various sauces, cottage cheese, pizza and sandwiches. Also, oil is recommended for men with reduced potency - it must be taken at least 3 tsp. in a day. This herb has long been used as a natural aphrodisiac - you need to mix 100 g of dried arugula with honey (10 g) and black pepper (10 g), take 1 tsp. in the morning.
Arugula can also be used in hair care, it has a strengthening effect on them, reduces hair loss and improves their internal structure. For this, a mask is made from the mustard oil of the plant - 2 tsp. oils should be rubbed into the scalp and left overnight. Of course, you need to wrap your head in a towel to keep it warm and not to stain your pillow. In addition, arugula oil is used to treat skin diseases, as a care for problem skin, to whiten pygienic spots and freckles. For its preparation 200 gr. 500 ml of olive oil is poured into crushed leaves and infused for 2 weeks, then the resulting oil is lubricated on the skin of the body and face.
When buying arugula, you need to look at the size of the leaves, since the taste also depends on the size - the larger the leaf, the less bitter it is, and vice versa. You can store the leaves in the refrigerator in a container of water, so they will stay fresh for several days. They can also be frozen after washing and drying. Since arugula is quite unpretentious, it can be grown on a windowsill throughout the year. This plant has practically no contraindications for use, except for an allergy to it. In large quantities, arugula is not recommended for patients with gastritis with high acidity, colitis (inflammation of the intestines) and pregnant women.
