Beetroot, also known as Beta vulgaris, has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The root of the beet plant has a rich history of being a staple food in many cultures.
The ancient Egyptians were some of the first to use beets medicinally, using them to treat a variety of ailments including constipation, fever, and skin conditions. The ancient Greeks and Romans also used beets for medicinal purposes, believing them to help with a wide range of ailments.
In the Middle Ages, beets were used as a natural remedy for a variety of health problems, including blood and digestive problems. They were also believed to have aphrodisiac properties and were used to increase libido.
Components of Beetroot
The medicinal properties of beets are largely due to the presence of compounds called betalains, which are responsible for the red color of beets. Betalains are a type of pigment that has been shown to have antioxidant and detoxifying effects (3). Beets also contain other compounds that have medicinal properties, including flavonoids, which are known for their antioxidant effects (3), and saponins, which have been shown to have immune-boosting effects (4).
Beets are a rich source of iron, which is necessary for the production of red blood cells. By increasing the body's iron levels, beets can help to improve the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, which can be beneficial for people (1).
Benefits of Beets
The nitrates found in beets have been shown to relax and dilate blood vessels, which can help to maintain a healthy blood pressure. In addition, the antioxidants found in beets can help to reduce oxidative stress.
Beets have been used for digestive problems, such as constipation and indigestion. The high fiber content of beets can help to promote regular bowel movements (1), while the betalains found in beets have been shown to have a protective effect on the digestive tract (4).
In addition to their medicinal uses, beets have also been used for their cosmetic benefits. The betalains found in beets have been shown to have skin-brightening effects (3).
Beets have also been used as a natural food dye. The red color of beets can be used to add color to a variety of foods, including desserts, jams, and jellies (2).
Overview
While beets have been used medicinally for centuries, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of beets. However, beets are a nutritious and delicious addition to any diet, and they may provide a variety of health benefits when consumed in moderation.
In conclusion, the history of beets for medicinal use dates back centuries, with various cultures utilizing the root of the beet plant for health. Today, beets are widely recognized for their numerous health benefits and are a popular choice for those looking to improve their overall health and well-being.
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Sources
(1) Cunnane, S. (1995). Survival of the fattest: The key to human brain evolution. Hudson, NY: Lindisfarne Press.
(2) Foster, H. (1999). Herbal health care for women. New York, NY: Random House.
(3) Borrelli, F., Capasso, R., Aviello, G., Pittalà, V., Gallo, L., et al. (2015). The plant kingdom as a source of anti-inflammatory agents. Phytother Res, 29(2), 207-216. doi:10.1002/ptr.5260
(4) Sharma, P., Prakash, A., & Dubey, R. (2014). Saponins: A versatile class of natural compounds with diverse biological activities. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 68, 1-10. doi:10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2014.03.024
(5) Lau, B. H. S., Muhlhausler, B. S., & Smith, R. A. (2017). The effect of beetroot juice supplementation on blood pressure in healthy adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, 2017, 1-11. doi:10.1155/2017/9591756
*This article is intended for informational purposes. The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Author
Rosalie Roder got her Bachelors' degrees in Chemistry and Biology from Mary Baldwin University in 1983. After graduation, with that background, her real education on natural health and healing and human potential began. It is a never ending study and she is always happy to share what she has found out so far.
