Is nasturtium edible?

Which parts of the nasturtiums are edible?

In the Andes, the original home of the Nasturtiums, the tuberous nasturtium (Mashua) is grown as a useful plant. Its tuber is used in a similar way to the potato and also consumed as a porridge or roasted. The tuber will keep for several years when dry.

In our latitudes, only the above-ground parts of the plant are consumed. The young leaves are ideal as a spicy bread topping or for salads, just like the ones blossoms. The taste of nasturtiums is spicy and hot, similar to watercress, but not related to it.

The nasturtium is also often used as a Caper substitute. Cook buds that are still closed or immature Seeds briefly in a broth of vinegar, water and salt. Then pour the still hot mixture into a clean screw-top jar and close it immediately. If stored in a cool and dark place, your fake capers can be kept for a few months.

Production of flower vinegar

With the flowers of the nasturtium you can make an excellent Flower vinegar produce. Put the unsprayed clean flowers in a wide-necked bottle and fill it up with a mild vinegar. Apple cider vinegar or mild wine vinegar is recommended. The liquid must completely cover the flowers, otherwise there is a risk of mold.

Now put your vinegar bottle tightly closed in a dark place. You should shake this bottle well once a day. The vinegar slowly takes on the taste and color of the flowers. After about four weeks, you can strain and use the vinegar.

Nasturtium as a remedy

To use nasturtiums as a remedy, it doesn't need to be specially processed. It is enough if you season your dishes with nasturtiums or eat the leaves and flowers as a salad. However, the grated leaves can also be used to make a tea, which makes it easier to use on a regular basis. For half a liter of water you need about two teaspoons.

If you want to strengthen your immune system and prevent colds, then include nasturtiums in your daily diet. Around 40 grams of fresh nasturtium leaves and / or flowers contain enough active ingredients to strengthen the immune system.

Nasturtium is popular with diseases of the upper respiratory tract, such as inflammation of the Used for sinuses or bronchitis, but also for bladder infections and others Urinary tract infections. The leaves of the nasturtium should also be used externally to promote wound healing and alleviate muscle pain.

Tips & Tricks

Due to its high content of mustard oil glycosides and vitamin C, nasturtiums are ideal for strengthening the immune system and preventing colds.

UE