The health benefits of chives have been known since the Roman ages. Chives, scientifically known as Allium Schoenoprasum belongs to the Allium family comprising of many vegetables like shallots, garlic, onions, and leeks. It is often called garlic chives because of its taste and fragrance that resembles garlic. It has mild pungent flavor that makes it suitable for various preparations, such as soups, salads, and sandwiches.
The leaves that grow above ground and have a straw shape are usually used for seasoning and mild cooking. The flavonoid rich herb should be used raw as cooking may destroy these flavonoids. Apart from imparting the delectable taste to the dishes, chives also offer ample health benefits.
1. Fights carcinogens
Carcinogens are the cancer causing elements entering your body via the food and air you breathe. The harmful pollutants and pesticides are the main culprits making these carcinogens affect your body. Chives have anti-carcinogenic properties and fight free radicals aiding the growth of tumor and cancer cells. Glutathione produced by chives is known for eliminating carcinogens. Chives also contain selenium that protects body against all harmful substances.
2. Controls high blood pressure
Blood vessel stiffness causing high blood pressure is decreased by allicin. It releases a vasodilator compound called Nitric Oxide to reduce blood vessel stiffness. Regular consumption of chives can reduce the risks of getting stroke, peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD), and Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). It also controls clot formation for unclogged blood vessels.
3. Huge source of vitamin K
Adequate vitamin K intake ensures healthy bones and a strong brain. It protects your bones from deterioration due to ageing. The neurological damage caused to the brain at an older age can be controlled effectively with this magical herb that has also found its application in treating Alzheimer’s disease. According to a recent study, about 100 g of chives can amount to 177% of your daily recommended allowance of vitamin K.
4. Maintains cardiovascular health
Allicin reduces the levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and increases the HDL (good cholesterol) in blood. It also contains vitamin B6 that regulates the homocysteine levels in blood to check the events of sudden heart failure. One of the most important health benefits of chives is the fact that it promotes cardiovascular health. Adding chives to all your meals will ensure that your blood vessels work efficiently with controlled blood pressur.
5. Immunity booster with antibiotic properties
Chives have antibiotic, antibacterial, and antiviral properties required to fight common health issues like the cold, flu, and yeast infections. It fights the harmful microbes to boost your resistance against different types of infections. It also has vitamin C vital for immunity boost. Sprinkle this herb on your salads to boost your immunity levels.
6. Controls mood swings
Chives possess choline, which improves concentration, memory, and regulates sleeping pattern. Folate present in this green herb would combat depression. Mood swings are controlled with the increased serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine levels also known as happy hormones.
7. Preserves skin radiance
Among the health benefits of chives we must also mention the fact that the herb makes skin glow with youthful radiance. The beta-carotene present in this allium family herb would efficiently work on skin problems like acne, sunburns, and skin ageing. As was earlier mentioned, chives fight free radicals. This also helps in preventing common signs of skin ageing like wrinkles, dark spots, and fine lines. Chives also contain vitamin E known for its skin and hair benefits.
8. Promotes hair health
Healthy hair speaks a lot about your overall health. Chives increase blood flow through the body by cleaning blood vessels. Blood flow to the hair is also improved, thus resulting in stronger hair follicles and reduced hair breakage. External application of chives juice has shown promising results as well.
These are the most important health benefits of chives. Add chives to your soups and salads, not just to add taste but to get the maximum health advantage from every bite.
Image source: a.pitch
Leave a Comment