Salsify Benefits
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Salsify (Tragopogon porrifolius or Tragopogon spp.), also known as the oyster plant or goat's beard, is a delicious biennial edible root with a flavour like oysters. It is easy to grow and resistant to insects and diseases. All parts of the plant are edible, although the root is most commonly eaten.
The root is rich in inulin, a soluble prebiotic fibre that feeds beneficial gut bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli.
Modern studies on salsify extracts show hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) and antioxidant properties.
Salsify contains copper and iron, which are essential for supporting healthy hair growth. Copper promotes a deep black hair colour and prevents premature greying.
Salsify also prevents the destruction of the cardiovascular system and any risk of heart diseases.
Salsify contains high amounts of polyacetylene antioxidants such as Falcarindiol, Falcarinol, Methyl-falcarindiol and Panaxydiol, which all have antioxidant properties that help reduce the risk of prostate cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer, and ovarian cancer.
In European folklore, salsify was traditionally consumed in early spring (such as on Easter Sunday) to "wake up" the body and cleanse the blood after heavy winter diets.
Salsify has a long history in traditional and medieval herbal medicine, and was used for digestive health, prebiotic support, mild indigestion, nausea, general stomach discomfort, clear obstructions of the gall bladder, support of jaundice recovery, appetite stimulation, promotion of fluid balance, kidney support, urinary function, respiratory relief, coughs, bronchitis, respiratory irritation, warts, wounds, oozing sores, better hair growth, blood pressure control, cardiovascular support, constipation, immune function, cancer protection, and much more.
If you have never tried salsify, then you have missed out on a truly delicious and nutritious food that also helps us on the road to wellness.