Nasturtium – Medicinal Plant and Health Benefits
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a medicinal plant with antibacterial and immune-boosting properties. Its flowers, leaves, and seeds are used in natural medicine and cooking.
Things worth knowing about "Nasturtium"
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a medicinal plant with antibacterial and immune-boosting properties. Its flowers, leaves, and seeds are used in natural medicine and cooking.
What is Nasturtium?
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a plant originally native to South America, now widely cultivated worldwide as both an ornamental and medicinal plant. All parts of the plant – flowers, leaves, and seeds – are edible and contain valuable bioactive compounds. In herbal medicine, nasturtium has been used for centuries to support the treatment of respiratory and urinary tract infections.
Active Compounds and Mechanism of Action
The primary active compound in nasturtium is glucotropaeolin, a glucosinolate. When the plant is crushed or chewed, this compound is converted by the enzyme myrosinase into benzyl isothiocyanate – a volatile mustard oil compound with proven antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.
- Antibacterial: Benzyl isothiocyanate inhibits the growth of various bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains.
- Antiviral: Studies indicate effectiveness against certain viruses that cause respiratory infections.
- Immune-stimulating: The mustard oil compounds help to activate the immune system.
- Antioxidant: Nasturtium contains vitamin C, carotenoids, and flavonoids that neutralize free radicals.
Medical Applications
Respiratory Tract Infections
Nasturtium extract is used both traditionally and in modern phytopharmaceuticals for the supportive treatment of colds, bronchitis, and sinusitis. In combination with horseradish root, it is an ingredient in approved herbal medicines (e.g., Angocin Anti-Infekt N).
Urinary Tract Infections
The mustard oil compounds are excreted through the kidneys and thereby exert a disinfecting effect on the urinary tract. They are therefore used as a complementary treatment for uncomplicated bladder infections (cystitis).
Wound Care
When applied externally, fresh leaves or extracts of nasturtium may be beneficial for minor wounds, skin infections, and fungal conditions.
Nutritional Profile
Nasturtium is rich in various nutrients and bioactive compounds:
- Vitamin C: Strengthens the immune system and acts as an antioxidant.
- Carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin): Protect the eyes and cells from oxidative stress.
- Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol): Anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mustard oils (isothiocyanates): Primarily responsible for the antimicrobial effect.
- Iron and calcium: Minerals present in notable quantities.
Usage and Dosage
As a Food
In the kitchen, nasturtium flowers and leaves are used fresh in salads, as edible garnishes, or as a peppery alternative to watercress. The seeds can be pickled similarly to capers.
As a Herbal Supplement
Standardized extracts are available in capsule form, as tablets, or in combination preparations. The exact dosage should follow the manufacturer instructions or a medical recommendation. Daily doses of approximately 200–400 mg of dry extract are commonly recommended.
Safety and Side Effects
Nasturtium is considered well-tolerated when used as directed. Possible side effects at higher doses include:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, or heartburn
- Skin irritation when applied topically (rare)
- Allergic reactions in individuals with known sensitivity
People with kidney problems or stomach ulcers should consult a doctor before use. Caution is advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding; use as a dietary supplement is not recommended during this time.
References
- Goos, K.H. et al. (2006): Efficacy and tolerability of a fixed combination herbal medicinal product containing nasturtium herb and horseradish root in patients with acute sinusitis, acute bronchitis, and acute urinary tract infection. Arzneimittelforschung, 56(3), 249–257.
- European Medicines Agency (EMA): Community herbal monograph on Tropaeolum majus L., herba. EMA/HMPC/573764/2010.
- Gruenwald, J., Brendler, T., Jaenicke, C. (eds.) (2007): PDR for Herbal Medicines. 4th edition. Thomson Healthcare, Montvale, NJ.
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