Garden cress, scientifically known as Lepidium sativum, is a powerhouse of health benefits that has been recognized by scholars like Ibn Al Qayyim (may Allah have mercy on him) in his seminal work, 'Prophetic Medicine.' This humble plant, often called cress, belongs to the mustard and watercress family, and it possesses a peppery flavor akin to its botanical relatives.
Health Benefits According to Ibn Al Qayyim:
Ibn Al Qayyim acknowledged cress for its myriad health properties. He highlighted its ability to warm and soothe the belly, alleviate spleen inflammation when combined with honey, prevent hair loss, boost appetite, aid in asthma, and clear the lungs. Additionally, when cress seeds are crushed and consumed with hot water, they offer relief from colic and vitiligo, a chronic skin condition causing white patches.
Nutritional Richness:
Garden cress is nutritionally dense, containing substantial amounts of iodine, iron, calcium, folic acid, and vitamins A and C. These elements are essential for the body's overall health and well-being. In today's context, the high iodine content in cress is particularly valuable, given its significance in maintaining a healthy thyroid, a vital gland regulating various bodily functions.
Cancer-Fighting Properties:
Studies, including research funded by Australia's Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC), have shown that garden cress possesses potent anti-cancer effects, outperforming several other green vegetables, including certain brassicas. These properties make it a valuable addition to a cancer-preventive diet.
Cultivation Made Simple:
Garden cress is incredibly easy to cultivate and can thrive throughout the year. Whether indoors or in a garden during spring, this versatile plant grows readily. Children often cultivate it as their initial exposure to gardening. Utilizing seed trays, wet cotton wool, or kitchen paper, garden cress seeds are sown, ensuring adequate moisture. Germination occurs within approximately two days, and within 5-7 days, the cress is ready for harvest, by the grace of Allah.
Incorporating Cress into Daily Life:
Both the leaves and stems of cress are edible and can be consumed raw in salads or sandwiches, earning them the moniker "cress sprouts." These raw cress sprouts are not only delicious but also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent addition to one's diet. Ibn Al Qayyim recommended raw cress for women with irregular or suppressed menstruation and also in cooked forms, particularly in soups.
Natural Remedies:
For hair loss, Ibn Al Qayyim suggested massaging the scalp with the juice of young garden cress, either applied directly or consumed. Additionally, the crushed seeds, when steeped in boiling water, create an infusion that aids in expelling viscous phlegm build-up in the chest and lungs, providing relief for bronchitis and chest infections. This infusion also benefits asthma sufferers. Moreover, for individuals dealing with sciatica, Ibn Al Qayyim proposed a poultice made from cress leaves, barley stems, and halal vinegar, providing relief when applied to the affected area.
Incorporating garden cress into your diet and wellness routines aligns with the Prophetic tradition of seeking natural remedies. Its abundant nutrients and medicinal properties make it a valuable asset in promoting holistic well-being.