Kangkong

KANGKONG

aka water spinach, river spinach, water morning glory, water convolvulus, Chinese spinach, Chinese Watercress, Chinese convolvulus, swamp cabbage , Ipomoea aquatica

GROW

Propagate: seedings

Light: sunny

Water: twice a day

Soil: good drainage

Fertilizer: twice a month

USES

Reduces Cholesterol: It is an excellent option for those individuals who want to lose weight and reduce cholesterol naturally. Consumption of water spinach has results in the reduction in cholesterol levels as well as Triglycoside. Thus, this vegetable has a major role to play in the reduction of cholesterol level.

Useful in treating Anaemia: Being rich in iron, the young water spinach leaves are extremely beneficial for people with anaemia as well as pregnant women who require iron in their diets. Iron is an important mineral that is needed by the body, particularly by the red blood cells for the formation of haemoglobin.

Treatment of Indigestion and Constipation: Water spinach is rich in fiber and hence, it aids in digestion, providing relief from different digestive disorders naturally. Its mild laxative properties are beneficial for people suffering from indigestion and constipation. Juice from boiled spinach can loosen constipation. This vegetable is also used in the treatment of intestinal worm infestation. It contains latex which is used as a purgative agent.

Anti Diabetic: Regular consumption of water spinach helps in developing resistance against diabetes induced oxidative stress. It is also used in the treatment of diabetes in pregnant women.

Prevention of Cancer: Being loaded with 13 different types of antioxidant compounds, water spinach is a perfect diet for prevention of cancer. These antioxidants are known to eliminate free radicals from the body, thus altering the conditions in which cancer cells multiply and strengthen the natural cell environment. This vegetable is said to be most beneficial in the prevention of colo-rectal and stomach cancers as well as skin and breast cancers.

Beneficial for Eyes: Water spinach has a high content of carotenoids, vitamin A and lutein. These nutrients are vital for eye health. Spinach also boosts glutathione levels, which plays an important role in preventing cataracts.

Boosts the Body’s Immunity: Being a storehouse of nutrients, this leafy green vegetable is an inexpensive and natural way of boosting the body’s immunity in comparison to vitamin C supplements. Consumption of this green leafy vegetable on a regular basis boosts your body’s immune system and promotes healthy development of bones. It also contributes to a healthy body by neutralizing and eliminating toxins.

Rejuvenates Skin: Drinking spinach juice is extremely beneficial for your skin health as it keeps your skin ever rejuvenated by eliminating harmful toxins from the body. Regular consumption of this juice helps in healing skin disorders such as pimples and acne. The benefits of water spinach for skin have been known for a long time. As stated earlier, this vegetable is a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, carotenoids and lutein. These minerals are vital for a healthy and glowing skin. Consuming water spinach in a regular basis helps to maintain radiant and healthy skin.