Sorrel

It is a plant having in its leaves an acid sap that gives a sour flavour. The acidity may result from the presence of one or more organic acids, the commonest being citric, malic and oxalic. Common sorrel or sheep sorrel is a common pasture and roadside weed introduced from Europe and widely distributed in the U.S. Field sorrel is used for salads, soups and greens.

Indian or Jamaican sorrel called roselle is an East Indian mallow cultivated for its sour calyces which are used in drinks, jellies and tarts. Sweet sorrel is a common tropical and sub-tropical shrub with acid bitter foliage. Climbing sorrel climbs by rootlets.

Benefit and uses of Sorrel.

• Sorrel is acceptance of the link between diet and health and this has evolved into the concept of nutraceuticals and functional foods.
• Sorrel contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, calcium, niacin, riboflavin and a group of compounds called FLAVONOIDS. FLAVONOIDS as a powerful antioxidant which scavenges the body of free radicals that can cause deadly diseases if they are not removed from the body.
• The Flavonoids present in sorrel may be a useful deterrent against certain types of cancers and help to enhance the body's immune system in general.
• 'Sorrel water' significantly decreases cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood and contributes to protection against heart diseases.
• It is promotes proper kidney function.
• The sorrel leaves or calyces are infused and used as a diuretic (stimulating the passing of urine); a hypotensive (to lower the blood pressure) and also to stimulate the production of bile by the liver.