Swamp cabbage is one of the vegetables known for its tender leaves and shoots. Also known as water spinach, the plant is also known as kangkong, Chinese convolvulus, Chinese watercress, Chinese spinach, water convolvulus, water morning glory, and river spinach. While it is unknown where it came from, swamp cabbage is full of health benefits.
General Nutrients
Swamp cabbage is rich in vitamins and minerals. According to Health Benefits Times, the vegetable is high in vitamins A, B, and C. vitamin A is good for the eyesight, as well as the integrity of the skin and the mucus membranes. Vitamin B, on the other hand, is great for boosting the function of the nervous system, which includes learning, thinking, memory, and sensation. Then, vitamin C is known for its ability to raise the body’s defenses against infection and illness. Also, it promotes the function of the substance called collagen, which binds loosely connected tissues and cells. This is the reason why some people taken collagen capsule supplement; it delays the signs of aging, such as fine lines and saggy skin.
In terms of minerals, swamp cabbage contains iron, magnesium, calcium, and selenium. Iron is essential for oxygenation of cells and tissues while magnesium is vital in neuromuscular health. Then, calcium promotes bone health while selenium improves health by generating antioxidant enzymes. The vegetable also has calories, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which provide energy to the body and promote growth, development, and repair of cells and tissues.
Anti-Indigestion and Constipation
Swamp cabbage helps prevent indigestion and constipation. According to Food Nutrition, the vegetable contains mild laxative properties, which are beneficial to people with indigestion and constipation. As a vegetable, it also has fiber, which acts a sweep to eliminate unwanted substances like toxins and free radicals from the body. As per the publication, swamp cabbage is also milder than Jamagota and Senna, which also prevents laxative side effects. Moreover, the vegetable also has latex, which acts as a purgative agent.
Liver Health
Swamp cabbage also promotes the health of the liver. As per Medical Health Guide, a study conducted by University of Malaya Department of Molecular Medicine in Malaysia aimed to determine the preventive action of the vegetable against thioacetamide-induced hepatotoxicity in rats, which includes the treatment of jaundice (yellowing of the skin). The research findings revealed that the rats in the treatment group demonstrated resistance against liver lesions, inflammation, and necrosis.
Sample Recipe
As a vegetable, swamp cabbage can be added to various meal recipes, such as the Swamp Cabbage with bacon recipe. According to Food Network, the ingredients include three slices of bacon, half cup of sugar, a tablespoon of salt, half tablespoon of freshly ground black pepper, and two heads of freshly cut swamp cabbage (hearts of palm, chopped).
To prepare, as per the publication, bacon is fried over medium heat in a medium saucepan. Then, it is set aside and the drippings are reserved. Next, the swamp cabbage and the other ingredients are put in a six-quart pot, along with the fried bacon and the bacon drippings. After that, the pot is filled with water until it becomes half-full and is brought to a boil for ten to 15 minutes, until the cabbage becomes tender. Finally, salt and pepper are added to taste. According to the publication, the person may leave leftovers, but the food must be brought to a full boil once more.
Overall, swamp cabbage is one of the commonly eaten vegetables by man and it offers a wide variety of health benefits. Thus, its inclusion to various meal recipes will boost the person’s health and wellness.
