Arugula

Arugula

See also : Cruciferous Vegetables
Arugula, also known as salad or garden rocket, is a leafy green of Mediterranean origin. Often described as having a spicy or peppery flavor, this cruciferous vegetable is one of the few members of the brassicaceae family that is easily digested in its raw state.

The benefits of Arugula are

• Like many leafy greens, arugula is a high-fiber, nutrient-dense food.
• It is an excellent source of B vitamins (especially folate), and antioxidant vitamins A and C, and also contains trace minerals including magnesium, iron, calcium, and copper.
• Vitamin K : Arugula is also an excellent source of vitamin K, which helps the body absorb calcium, protects against Alzheimer’s disease , and helps maintain cardiovascular and bone health.
• Cancer : Like other cruciferous vegetables, arugula is high in cancer-preventing (and cancer-fighting!) phytochemicals. Research suggests that cruciferous vegetables are especially useful for warding off prostate , breast , cervical , colon and ovarian cancers. A long term study was made in order to evaluate potential cancer risks with or without the consumption of glucosinolates found in cruciferous vegetables such as arugula. The analysis showed that the more participants regularly consumed glucosinolate based products, the less they were prone to develop cancer and more specifically prostate cancer.
• Arugula is high in chlorophyll, a substance that may help protect against liver and DNA damage related to aflatoxin exposure (e.g. from moldy grains and legumes).
• Detox : Arugula is a type of cruciferous vegetable (like broccoli, kale, and watercress) that contain a number of compounds that aid in detoxification.
• Aphrodisiac : In the ancient world, arugula was very well regarded for its ability to restore love in the bedroom. It was one of the prime herbs used to help with anxiety, fertility and performance, while also favoring male and female vigor.