Ancient sailors knew of sorrel health benefits because of its anti-scurvy properties. The plant’s leaves are a true joy, with their acid flavor for outdoor meals. Today, the plant contains 20 to 25 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams (lemon contains 50 mg).
- FLAVORFUL BLISS: Discover the goodness of Sorrel hibiscus tea leaves. Our dried edible flowers makes a tasty, healthy drink. Enjoy daily for a delicious vitality boost. Great for drinks, health benefits, and adding flavor to dishes.
Scientific Facts
- Scientific Name – Rumex acetosa L.
- Other Names – Common Sorrel, garden sorrel, meadow sorrel, sourgrass.
- French – Oseille.
- Spanish – Acedera.
- Environment – Common mountain meadows all over Europe and America.
- Description – Vivacious plant of the Polygonaceae family, growing from 20 to 70 cm high, with large, arrow-shaped leaves and green or reddish flowers that grow in spikes.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The leaves and the root.
Healing Properties
The plant contains 1.3 percent potassium oxalate, oxalic acid, small amounts of anthraquinone glycosides, vitamin C, and iron salts. Its properties are the following:
- It is an appetizer that is refreshing, invigorating, and antiscorbutic due to its organic acids and vitamin C content. Among the many health benefits of sorrel is its ability to ease digestion. Therefore, it is recommended for people weakened by infectious diseases and those who suffer from anemia.
- Emollients and cicatrizant (healing agent) are used externally. It alleviates acne and skin blemishes. Its fresh juice cleans skin sores and infected wounds.
Warning
Never exceed the recommended dosage. We recommend throwing away the broth when boiled since it contains high amounts of oxalic acid. Its use should be avoided with gout, arthritis, and kidney stones because of its high oxalic acid content.
Wood Sorrel
The wood sorrel (Oxalis acetosella L.) is a vibrant climbing plant similar to the Sorrel. Its leaves contain bioxalate of potassium, oxalic acid, vitamin C, and mucilage. They are depurative, diuretic, febrifuge, and refreshing. Its most important application is as a refreshing herbal tea for diseases with fever or as a depurative to perform a Spring cure.
It is also a fresh vegetable in soups, salads, and infusions (a handful of leaves per liter of water). Its use demands the same caution as that of the sorrel.
How to use Sorrel
- Infusion with thirty grams of leaves per liter of water, drinking two or three cups daily.
- Fresh juice: a glass every day.
- Fresh juice lotion on the afflicted skin area.
- Poultices with boiled leaves.
Frequently Asked Question
How does sorrel support kidney and urinary health?
The plant’s diuretic properties encourage increased urine production, helping to flush toxins and waste from the body. This can lower excess uric acid levels and may help lessen the risk of kidney stone development.
Can this plant contribute to improved heart health?
It is a good source of magnesium, a crucial mineral for maintaining normal blood pressure, heart rhythm, and muscle function. It also offers antioxidants and fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels, further benefiting cardiovascular health.
Does it have a role in cancer prevention?
Preliminary research indicates that the plant’s rich antioxidant content may protect against specific cancer cell development. However, it’s important to note that this research is primarily in the early stages.
How does sorrel benefit the immune system?
The plant boasts a high concentration of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant vital for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps combat inflammation, aids in wound healing and supports the body’s ability to fight off infections. Additionally, it supplies vitamin A, crucial for immune cell function.
Can sorrel help manage sinus infections?
Its natural drying abilities assist in reducing excess mucus production, sometimes offering relief from sinus congestion symptoms. It also contains anti-inflammatory compounds potentially beneficial for soothing sinus irritation.
Does sorrel play a role in eye health?
The plant is a great source of vitamin A, which is essential for good eyesight. Vitamin A keeps the cornea healthy and may help lower the chance of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
How can the plant aid in the treatment of canker sores?
The tannins in this plant are known for their astringent properties. These can help shrink tissues and reduce inflammation, potentially speeding up the healing of canker sores.
What are the potential skin benefits?
The plant’s antioxidant profile can help protect skin against free radical damage and premature aging. Additionally, its antipruritic (anti-itch) properties may relieve various skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and sunburn.
What is the significance of oxalic acid in sorrel?
The plant contains oxalic acid, which can bind with calcium and potentially increase the risk of kidney stones in predisposed individuals. Moderation is essential, and cooking sorrel can help reduce the oxalic acid content.
Are there any populations that should exercise caution when consuming this plant?
Due to its oxalic acid content, it might be advised to be limited in intake by individuals with existing kidney problems, those taking certain medications, or people prone to kidney stones. Before making it a regular diet, you should always talk to your doctor.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. Vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 275. Print.[sorrel health benefits]
- https://www.netmeds.com/health-library/post/sorrel-leaves-benefits-uses-formulation-ingredients-dosage-and-side-effects
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sorrel-benefits
- https://draxe.com/nutrition/sorrel/
- https://greatist.com/health/sorrel-benefits
- https://www.healthifyme.com/blog/sorrel/
Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API