Among the recommended vegetables, chrysanthemum greens top the list for experts due to their affordable price, multiple health benefits, and availability during the Tet holiday season.
According to traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, Bui Dac Sang (Hanoi Oriental Medicine Association), chrysanthemum greens have a spicy, sweet, and cooling taste. This vegetable is believed to calm the mind, expel phlegm, soothe the liver, and support kidney health. It helps reduce symptoms such as heart palpitations, insomnia, and fatigue. The essential oils in the greens, combined with fiber, aid in removing excess gas from the stomach, stimulating digestion, and effectively “sweeping away” excess cholesterol.
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Chrysanthemum greens are in season and offer numerous health benefits, making them an ideal choice during the Tet holiday.
Modern medical research also reveals that chrysanthemum greens, often referred to as the “emperor’s vegetable,” are rich in vitamins and minerals. They contain high levels of amino acids, protein, and choline, which are essential for the body’s well-being. Out of the 20 amino acids vital for human health, chrysanthemum greens provide 8 types, making them a valuable source of nutrition, especially during winter when our bodies require extra energy and nutrients to combat the cold.
Practitioner Bui Dac Sang further explains that this vegetable is particularly beneficial for individuals with high blood pressure. In addition to taking prescribed medication, maintaining a low-sodium diet, and refraining from consuming animal fats and stimulants, incorporating chrysanthemum greens into their meals can help regulate blood pressure.
Here are some of the health benefits of consuming chrysanthemum greens during the Tet holiday:
– Effective weight loss: The high fiber content in chrysanthemum greens aids in digestion, detoxifies the body, and prevents fat absorption. A soup made with these greens is not only refreshing but also helps alleviate that bloated feeling after indulging in oily foods.
– Blood pressure regulation: Individuals with high blood pressure should include chrysanthemum greens in their diet. Drinking 50ml of freshly squeezed chrysanthemum juice every morning and evening can help reduce headaches and effectively control blood sugar levels.
– Liver and lung support: Chrysanthemum greens improve liver function and cleanse the lungs. The high content of vitamin K and antioxidants also helps relieve constipation.
Consuming chrysanthemum greens in the right way can provide significant health benefits and aid in treating various ailments. Photo illustration.
Practitioner Bui Dac Sang also cautions that while chrysanthemum greens are beneficial for overall health and recommended during the Tet holiday, some individuals should exercise caution when consuming them. Those with low blood pressure should refrain from excessive intake as it may further lower their blood pressure, leading to fatigue and dizziness.
Additionally, young children and individuals suffering from diarrhea or a cold stomach should avoid this vegetable. Instead, they should opt for warming foods, such as ginger or black pepper, to restore balance to their bodies.