Asparagus

Botanically it is known as Asparagus officinalis. It is an erect or climbing plant widely distributed from Siberia to South Africa. Some species such as the asparagus fern are often grown for their decorative value and one species is used in the flower trade, where it is called as 'sinilex'. The best known and the, most widely cultivated species, however, is the common or garden asparagus where tender shoots or spears are widely eaten as vegetable.

The green shoots are usually sold fresh, while the white ones are used mostly for canning and freezing. A typical asparagus plant rises in height from either a tuberous root system or an underground stem called rhizome. Unlike most other plants, the asparagus does not produce true leaves. Instead it bears cladodes that produce many small scale-like structures called cadophylls which perform the function of true leaves. The flower of the asparagus is greenish yellow in colour and about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. They are borne singly or in short spikes or flat-topped clusters and in the fall each flower ripens into a small red berry.

The green shoots are low in calories but contain relatively large amounts of calcium and phosphorus. They also contain vitamins A and C and niacin. It is very valuable in scurvy, rickets, anaemia, pellagra and low vitality.

Benefit and uses of Asparagus.

• Asparagus is especially rich in antioxidant nutrients and phytochemicals. Vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E are amply represented.
• Asparagus is valuable vegetables. It is the best vegetable provider of folic acid. Folic acid is necessary for blood cell formation and growth, as well as liver disease prevention.
• It makes an enjoyable appetizer, or a good complement to salads, vegetable dishes, and soups. Asparagus can also be pureed to be used for soups and souffles.
• Benefits in the uses of Asparagus are: stimulation of hormone production, helps rid the body of excess water and salt, and helps prevent anemia due to folic acid deficiency. Asparagus also soothes pain and swelling of joints due to rheumatism or arthritis.
• It has been used to purify the blood. It works great in treating kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
• Asparagus is an excellent food for strengthening the heart.
• It is an excellent body cleanser and its use will prevent or combat blood acidity.
• Asparagus is contains fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon.