Nasturtium - a broad spectrum antibiotic and antifungal

Nasturtium (Indian cress, lat. Tropaeolum majus) was first introduced from Peru to Europe in the 1600s. It was used as a medicinal plant for a long time in South America.

Nasturtium is an easy-to-grow annual whose leaves and flowers are edible. It can act both as a disinfectant and a healing agent, and all parts of the plant seem to have strong antibiotic and antimicrobial properties. These orange, yellow, and red flowers are sweet and tangy, yet peppery and spicy flavor.

Nasturtiums are actually fabulous plants. They are ridiculously easy to grow, and you can eat their colourful flowers, leaves and seeds.

In addition to its wonderful flavor, the nasturtium plant is a rich source of immunity-boosting vitamin C and is reputed to contain an herbal equivalent of penicillin, which helps the body fight off infection.

It is excellent for treatment of urinary tract infections, swollen airways, cough, cold, bronchitis, influenza and influenzal pneumonia. It helps in the treatment against 46 strains of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Streptococcus. It is far safer than orthodox antibiotics as it produces no resistance or allergy.

Nasturtium can be applied directly to the skin for mild muscular pain and to treat minor scrapes and cuts.  It also works against various fungal infections, including yeast infection.

The dried ripe buds have a strong laxative effect and unlike many conventional germicides, nasturtium will not damage the intestinal flora.

Nasturtium has a reputation for promoting the formation of red blood cells, and it’s been used in folk medicine as a remedy against scurvy.

The herb has been used as a remedy for hair loss and to stimulate hair growth.

The main substances found in Nasturtium:

·         Glucosinolates - Plants producing large amounts of glucosinolates are under basic research for potential actions against cancer.

·         Mustard oil - has high levels of both Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and Erucic acid.

·         Flavonoids - anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial (antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral), anti-cancer, and anti-diarrheal activities

·         Carotenoids

·         Vitamin C

Nasturtium Tincture:

Finely chopped flowers and leaves put into a small bottle and pour with alcohol (60%), close it , store it in a dark place for 3-4 weeks and sometimes shake with it.

Dosage -  3 x day 20 drops for adult, 5-10 drops for children into a hot tea.

Possible Side Effects and Interactions of Nasturtium

Nasturtium contains mustard oil and when used topically can cause skin irritation.

Long term intake of Nasturtium may reduce fertility.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use this herb. People with kidney diseases or ulcers of the stomach or intestinal tract should not use this herb in any form either.

Warning: Health information and the names of the drugs mentioned in the article are only for orientation in the field of self-medication and does not replace communication with your doctor. Before taking any medication, read the leaflet or ask your pharmacist or doctor. The author is not responsible for misinterpretation of the information contained on the website and is not responsible for any damages incurred subsequent procedures or conduct that are made based on the content of these pages. By entering this blog you confirm that you have read the aim and the restrictions of the site.