Why are Garden Cress Seeds popular in home gardens?

Garden cress seeds are packed with an incredible amount of nutrition and are becoming increasingly popular among health enthusiasts. Whether you are looking to spruce up your salads or boost your overall well-being, garden cress seeds might be the secret ingredient you’ve been missing.

 

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See also: Are chia seeds worth all the rage?

 

Garden cress seeds: Description

Garden cress (Lepidium sativum) seeds are small, edible seeds. This winter perennial or curly cress, shares a peppery and tangy flavour with its relatives, watercress and mustard. Not only are its leaves used as a garnish in European cuisine, but its tiny seeds are also enjoyed in salads, soups and smoothies. These seeds are rich in iron, folate, vitamins C, A and E, fibre and protein. Garden cress goes by various names depending on the region. You may encounter it as mustard and cress, garden pepper cress, pepperwort, pepper grass or even poor man’s pepper. This annual plant can grow up to 60 cm (24 in) tall, sporting numerous branches on its upper part. It boasts delicate white to pinkish flowers, each measuring 2 mm (1⁄16 in) across, clustered in small branched racemes.

 

Garden Cress Seeds: Health benefits

Nutrient powerhouse

Raw garden cress contains around 89% water, 6% carbohydrates (including 1% dietary fibre), 3% protein, and less than 1% fat. In a 100-gram serving, garden cress provides 32 kilocalories of energy and significant amounts of vital nutrients. It is a source of vitamin K, C and A. The herb also contains high levels of manganese and other minerals such as potassium and magnesium.

Medicinal potential

Apart from its culinary merits, it has been used for a long time in traditional medicine. People have used garden cress to alleviate coughs, combat vitamin C deficiency, relieve constipation, bolster the immune system and reduce fluid retention. Some of its health benefits include:

• Prevents asthma and promotes respiratory health: Garden Cress seeds contain an active compound that helps improve lung function and reduces asthma symptoms. Additionally, chewing the seeds is an expectorant, relieving cough and sore throat.
• Enhances haemoglobin levels and treats anaemia: Garden Cress seeds help improve haemoglobin levels and deal with anaemia. Packed with iron, these seeds stimulate the production of red blood cells.
• Supports digestive health and regularises bowel movements: Garden Cress seeds are a source of dietary fibre, making them a potent natural laxative. They can even be given to children mixed with water to alleviate colic issues.
• Restores hormonal balance: Garden Cress seeds contain phytochemicals that mimic oestrogen, aiding hormonal balance and regularising the menstrual cycle.
• Boosts memory: Garden Cress seeds are rich in essential fatty acids, such as linolenic acids and arachidonic fatty acids, which have been associated with better memory performance.
• Enhances skin and hair health: A paste from these seeds mixed with honey can soothe sunburn, irritated skin and dry skin. Furthermore, they are a rich protein, iron and magnesium source, promoting healthy hair growth.
• Aiding lactating mothers and regulating diabetes: Garden Cress seeds stimulate breast milk production due to their high protein and iron content. Their anti-glycemic properties assist in regulating blood sugar levels.
• Assisting weight loss and boosting immunity: Garden Cress seeds can aid in shedding excess weight, thanks to their abundance of flavonoids. Loaded with antioxidants and Vitamins A and C, these seeds boost overall immunity.

 

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Garden cress seeds: Side effects

Garden cress is generally considered safe for use as food. However, its safety as a medicinal supplement is still uncertain. It is important to note that consuming large amounts of garden cress may lead to intestinal irritation. Therefore, moderation is key to preventing any discomfort or digestive issues.

 

Garden cress seeds: Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

It is crucial to exercise caution when considering using garden cress as a medicinal remedy during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Diabetes

Individuals with diabetes should know that garden cress might lower blood sugar levels. Consequently, close monitoring of blood sugar levels is necessary. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional, as dose adjustments may be required for diabetes medications.

Low Potassium Levels (Hypokalemia)

Garden cress has the potential to flush potassium out of the body, possibly leading to low potassium levels. Garden cress should be used with caution if you are susceptible to potassium deficiency.

Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)

Garden cress has potential blood pressure-lowering effects. However, individuals with low blood pressure should exercise caution when consuming garden cress, as it may affect blood pressure control.

 

FAQs

How can garden cress seeds be used in cooking?

Garden cress seeds can be used in various culinary creations. The leaves can be used as a garnish for pasta and sandwiches. The seeds add a delightful crunch to salads, soups and smoothies.

Can garden cress seeds be used as a medicinal supplement?

While garden cress has a history of use in traditional medicine, scientific evidence supporting its medicinal uses is currently limited. It is best to use garden cress seeds in food amounts rather than as a medicinal supplement.

Where can I find garden cress seeds?

Garden cress seeds can be found in some grocery stores, health food stores, or online retailers that sell seeds and herbs.

How should garden cress seeds be stored?

To keep them fresh and avoid spoilage, garden cress seeds should be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry location.

Can garden cress seeds be grown at home?

Yes, garden cress seeds can be easily grown at home. They are fast-growing and can be cultivated in pots or containers indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate.

Can I consume garden cress seeds if I have allergies?

If you have known allergies to similar plants like watercress or mustard, it is advisable to exercise caution when consuming garden cress seeds, as they may cause allergic reactions.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com