Arugula is known as an aphrodisiac and as a top anti-cancer food

Saturday, March 15, 2014 by: P. Simard
Tags: arugula, anti-cancer foods, anti-oxidants

(NaturalNews) Arugula originates from the Mediterranean but it has made its way to North American shores in the last few decades. In some parts of the world they call it rocket seed rather than arugula. Most will agree that its slightly bitter and peppery taste is an excellent addition to any healthy dish. Way back in time, this plant was first and foremost recognized as an aphrodisiac. Starting with the first century AD, many Greek philosophers have praised its apparent ability to boost libido. The Roman Empire actually venerated arugula to point of identifying it as a god of fertility.

It is known as a cruciferous vegetable that closely resembles lettuce. This herb is filled with essential antioxidants, minerals and vitamins such as potassium, vitamin K, vitamin C, magnesium and manganese. Not only does its vitamin K content contribute to develop bone density, especially in people suffering from osteoporosis, but its minimal oxalate quantities help the body absorb calcium more efficiently. Arugula is also an excellent source of chlorophyll which not only helps purify the blood but also prevents possible DNA and liver damage from the effects of aflatoxins which are occasionally found in corn or peanut products.

Arugula has some very interesting cancer-fighting properties, mainly due to its glucosinolate compounds that are known to diminish the risk of possibly developing breast, prostate, lung, colorectal and pancreatic cancer.

The anti-cancer properties of glucosinolates were studied for several years

A long term study was made in order to evaluate potential cancer risks with or without the consumption of glucosinolates found in cruciferous vegetables such as arugula. More than 11,000 males participated in this study that lasted a little over nine years. The analysis showed that the more participants regularly consumed glucosinolate based products, the less they were prone to develop cancer and more specifically prostate cancer.

In the ancient world, arugula was very well regarded for its ability to restore love in the bedroom. It was one of the prime herbs used to help with anxiety, fertility and performance, while also favoring male and female vigor. Now more and more scientific facts seem to back these old beliefs. Dr. Walt Larimore, a renowned physician, journalist and author spoke about many of these findings in one of his blogs where he described the seven most effective herbs to have, arugula being one of them, in order to rekindle the passion in the bedroom.

Dr. Jennifer R. Berman, director of the Berman Women's Wellness Center in Beverly Hills, CA, was also quoted as saying that a growing body of evidence demonstrate that some vitamins and components in foods such as arugula can facilitate sensual function and the overall experience of physical intimacy.

Arugula's aphrodisiac qualities seem to come from the action of its trace minerals and antioxidants that diminish the influx of libido-reducing contaminants into the reproductive system.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.chatelaine.com

http://www.stepintomygreenworld.com

https://www.naturalnews.com/033604_arugula_superfood.html

http://undergroundhealthreporter.com/natural-aphrodisiac#axzz2vIoXM5bZ

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19585501

About the author:
After spending several years working in property management, P. Simard is now focusing on being a naturopath in Quebec.