Asparagus - Nature Cures®

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Also known as Asparagus officinalis.

The asparagus is a member of the lily family. It grows easily in the home garden right in the flower bed. It is a perennial and can yield a harvest for decades. Asparagus can be planted as seeds or roots any time of the year.

Asparagus has 288 milligrams of potassium per 228 g (8 oz). It also contains 3 grams of fibre which cleanses the digestive system. It has virtually no natural sodium so does not cause bloating which often happens during menstruation. It also contains no fat or cholesterol, plus 228 g (8 oz) of asparagus has only 40 calories.

Asparagus has been listed as the number one source of vitamin K which studies have shown can help prevent osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Vitamin K aids in bone formation and repair. It is also necessary for the synthesis of osteocalcin.

Osteocalcin is the protein in bone tissue on which calcium crystalises. It is also rich in vitamin A, vitamin B9 (folate) and glutathione, an amino acid compound with potent antioxidant properties. Glutathione (GSH) is an antioxidant that protects cells from toxins such as free radicals.

The fibre and prebiotics in asparagus promote healthy gut bacteria and can help alleviate inflammation in the colon.

Asparagus contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which helps to protect against macular degeneration and promotes healthy vision.

Asparagus also contains a good supply of protein called histones, which are believed to be active in controlling cell growth.

Nutritional compounds in asparagus

Asparagusic acid
Carotenoids
Fibre
Flavonoids
Glutathione
Histones
Isorhamnetin
Kaempferol
Lutein
Polyphenols
Quercetin
Zeaxanthin

Vitamins in asparagus

Minerals in asparagus

NOTE: The minerals in asparagus are most concentrated in the upper sections of the spears.

Asparagus for men

Asparagus provides men benefits with hormonal health and fertility due to nutrients like folate, zinc, and selenium, which support sperm quality and testosterone synthesis. It also supports prostate health. Asparagus is considered a natural aphrodisiac as it is rich in vitamin B9, potassium and vitamin E, which are essential elements for the production of testosterone.

Asparagus for pregnant women

Asparagus is important for women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Having a vitamin B9 (folate) deficiency has been correlated with increased risk of spina bifida (a spinal cord birth defect) and also anencephaly (a neural tube defect). Folate helps to regulate embryonic and foetal nerve cell formation and may also help to prevent premature births.

Asparagus for brain health

Asparagus is rich in magnesium, which helps dilate blood vessels, and boost blood flow to the brain and the vitamin B9 content acts as energy for the brain. Studies show that people with lower levels of vitamin B9 (folate) tend to be more likely to experience depression.

NOTE: Asparagus can interact with certain medications, such as lithium and blood thinners, and the poisonous red berries on the plant should be avoided.

Health benefits of asparagus

Reduces belly fat.
Prevents and treats urinary tract infections and kidney stones.
Reduce pain and inflammation.
Reduces the risk of heart disease as it protects blood cholesterol from peroxidation.
Lowers blood pressure and LDL cholesterol levels.
Prevents cellular damage that can lead to cancer and heart disease.
Reduces the accumulation of iron in the joints, which is thought to be a primary cause of rheumatoid arthritis.
Has anti-aging properties.
Protects against cancer.

There have been cases reported where asparagus has been able to eliminate cancerous tumours in the body completely. This may be due to its ability to reduce the accumulation of iron in the body. Cancerous cells need iron to multiply. It’s antioxidant properties and vitamin K content are additional anti-cancer agents, so regular consumption is obviously beneficial to both protect against and treat cancerous tumours.

Asparagus is good for people with diabetes because it is a low-carbohydrate, non-starchy vegetable rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals that help manage blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes complications.

NOTE: Some people may need to limit asparagus due to its high purine content, which can increase uric acid and potentially lead to issues like kidney stones or gout.

Asparagus treatment for medical conditions

Place cooked organic asparagus in a blender and liquefy to make a puree.
Store in the refrigerator (lasts 2-3 days).
Take 4 full tablespoons twice daily, morning and evening.
It can be diluted with water and used as a cold or hot drink.

This suggested dosage is based on past reports, but larger amounts will do no harm and may be needed in some cases. Improvement can begin to show in about 2-4 weeks.

NOTE: Consuming asparagus can give the urine a strong odour, but this is not harmful. It is due to the detoxification process which asparagus is capable of.

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