Cabbage leaf (brassica oleracea)
Synopsis
Cabbage leaf, from Brassica oleracea var. capitata, is a nutrient-dense cruciferous vegetable traditionally used not only as a food but also as a topical and internal remedy in many folk medicine systems. Rich in vitamins, minerals, sulfur compounds, and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, cabbage leaf is best known for its roles in digestive support, wound healing, and breast inflammation relief, particularly during breastfeeding.
Cabbage leaves contain:
- Glucosinolates, which convert to isothiocyanates (e.g., sulforaphane) with detoxifying, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer properties
- Vitamin C and K, folate, and beta-carotene
- Anthocyanins (especially in red cabbage) with antioxidant effects
- L-glutamine, an amino acid that supports gut lining repair
- Natural enzymes and anti-inflammatory compounds, beneficial when applied to skin or joints
Medicinal and nutritional uses include:
- Topical application for breast engorgement or mastitis during lactation
- Poultices for joint pain, swelling, and inflammation
- Internal use for ulcers, gastritis, and general digestive support
- Cleansing and detoxification, especially via sulfur-rich compounds that support liver function
Cabbage is commonly consumed raw, steamed, or fermented (as sauerkraut or kimchi), and leaf compresses are used in traditional remedies.
Historical Use:
Cabbage has been revered since Ancient Greece and Rome for its medicinal value. Hippocrates and Pliny the Elder described its use for wounds, infections, and digestive issues. In European folk medicine, cabbage leaves were soaked or steamed and applied to sprains, arthritis, mastitis, and even ulcers and varicose veins.
Cabbage juice became a popular home remedy for stomach ulcers in the 20th century, with studies confirming that compounds in raw cabbage can accelerate mucosal healing.
In Ayurveda, cabbage is considered cooling and detoxifying, used to balance pitta dosha and soothe inflammatory digestive conditions.
Today, cabbage leaf continues to be used in natural first aid, lactation care, and gut healing protocols, appreciated for its gentle yet powerful anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties, both internally and externally.
Uses: Health Conditions
Duodenal Ulcers (Scientific)
Breasts (swelling and tenderness) (Traditional)
Breast Lumps (Traditional)
Mastitis (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Bruises (prevention) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Body Systems
Digestive System (Science)
Immune System (Science)
Liver (Science)
Bladder (Traditional)
Breasts (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Gums (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Mucus Membranes (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Small Intestines (Traditional)
Stomach (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)