Also known as Brassicaceae, cruciferous vegetables, Cruciferae.
The word brassica derives from ‘bresic’, a Celtic word for cabbage and they were originally named cruciferous for the four equal-sized petals in their flowers that could be viewed as forming a cross like or crucifix shape.
Glucoraphanin, which transforms into sulforaphane in the body, is found in brassicas and blocks a key destructive enzyme that damages cartilage. Consuming plenty of these cruciferous vegetables can protect the joints and help to treat arthritis. Sulforaphane, which also helps with the detoxification in the liver and may prevent, or even cure, breast cancer.
Brassicas can boost the immune system, prevent spina bifida in newborns (if consumed before and during pregnancy) and prevent heart disease and many forms of cancer.
Brassicas have a very high antioxidant content which cleanses the system and protects the lungs.
Significant nutrients in brassicas
- Calcium
- Copper
- Carotenoids
- Indoles
- Iron
- Manganese
- Phosphorus
- Potassium
- Vitamin A (retinol)
- Vitamin B1 (thiamine
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
- Vitamin B3 (niacin
- Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)
- Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
- Vitamin B9 (folate)
- Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
- Zinc
NOTE: To benefit from the fat-soluble carotenoids in brassicas, they must be consumed with a fatty food such as avocado, butter, fish, nuts, oils or seeds etc.
NOTE: Avoid cabbage and kale if suffering from thyroid gland problems or bladder, kidney or gallstones.
Types of brassica vegetables
- Bok choy
- Broccoli
- Brussel sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Chinese cabbage
- Collard greens
- Cress
- Daikon
- Horseradish
- Kale
- Kohlrabi
- Mizuna
- Mustard greens
- Radish
- Rapeseed
- Rocket
- Shepherd’s purse
- Swede
- Turnip
- Wasabi
- Watercress
Related subjects
- A-Z of natural foods and remedies
- Bone and joint disorders
- Cancer
- Heart disorders
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Respiratory disorders