Asparagus is cultivated mostly for its tender shoots, common known
as spears. This vegetable is of great importance in the diet because of its valuable salts, vitamins and
for its large amount of cellulose contents.
Natural Benefits and Curative Properties
The asparagus has multipurpose therapeutic properties. It is an alkaline of foodstuff. It is an
excellent body cleanser and its use will prevent or combat blood acidity. It has a nitrogenous content
called "asparagin" which has diuretic properties. It is said that the liberal use of the young shoots acts as a
rejuvenator. However, the use of asparagus should be avoided in goitre, liver and
kidney diseases and in case of excess mucus, especially cetarrhal mucus.
Rheumatism
The asparagus is a valuable food medicine in rheumatism on account of its potash content. But it should be
steamed and not boiled as in boiling about four-fifths of the valuable salts are lost. A n infusion
prepared from this vegetable is also considered highly beneficial in the treatment of rheumatism and chronic gout. It
should be given in doses of 30 to 60 ml. It should, however, be avoided in advanced stages of kidney diseases.
Heart Disease
The asparagus is an excellent food for strengthening the heart. A food medicine for weak or enlarged hearts is prepared by
mixing the freshly expressed juice of this vegetable with honey and taking a teaspoonful three times daily.
Patients with heart disease will also benefit by eating the cooked vegetable provided the cooking is done
conservatively, preferably in steamed form.
