Synonyms: White Cabbage Leaves
Family: Cruciferae
Genus species: Brassica oleracea var. capitata
Type: Biennial herb
Part Used: Leaves
Location: Widely cultivated
Actions: Anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer, antioxidant, antirheumatic, antiscorbutic, antiulcer, cancer preventative, detoxifier, diuretic, immunoenhancer, laxative, liver decongestant, nutritive, pectoral, stomachic, vulnerary
Indications: Acne, alcoholism, arthralgia, breast cancer (indoles induce the body to metabolize a form of estrogen that promotes breast cancer), colon cancer, constipation, edema, gastric ulcer, hemorrhoids, migraine, obesity, peptic ulcer, skin disorders, stomach cancer, ulcer, wounds
Chemicals & Nutrients: alpha-Linolenic Acid, Calcium, Carbohydrates (40%), Fats (2%), Fiber (5%), Indoles, Iron, Linoleic Acid, Magnesium, Oleic Acid, Phosphorus, Potassium, Protein (9%), Sodium, Sulfur, Titanium, Vitamin C, Vitamin U
Drug Interactions: Due to the diuretic action of this herb the following drug interactions are possible: increased risk of toxicity with anti-inflammatory analgesics; if hypokalemia occurs possible antagonism with antiarrhythmics and potentiation of muscle relaxants; antagonizes antidiabetic (hypoglycemic) drugs; may potentiate and/or interfere with antihypertensives; may potentiate lithium therapy; when taken with corticosteroids there is a risk for hypokalemia; may potentiate other diuretics and increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Warning: Contains small amounts of goitrogens (substances that produce goiter). If consumed in large quantities over long periods of time, the goitrogens may interfere with the utilization of iodine by the thyroid gland. However, this is only possible if there is an iodine deficiency.
Note: Heat destroys Vitamin U.
Safety: GRAS.