Arugula
Other names for Arugula
arugula
arugula aerial parts extract
arugula extract
arugula, powder
certified organic arugula
eruca sativa aerial parts extract
eruca sativa extract blend
eruca sativa leaf extract
green leaf sprout-arugula (eruca sativa) powder
nitro rocket
nitrorocket
nitrorocket arugula extract
organic arugula
rocket plant
rocket plant leaf extract
Synopsis of Arugula
History
Arugula (Eruca sativa), also known as rocket or rucola, has a rich history as both a culinary and medicinal plant. Dating back to Roman and ancient Mediterranean civilizations, arugula was valued not just for its peppery flavor but also for its reputed health benefits. Ancient texts reference arugula as an aphrodisiac, and it was often included in love potions and remedies to stimulate energy and vitality. Traditional healers utilized arugula to aid digestion, enhance appetite, and alleviate skin conditions due to its high content of glucosinolates, antioxidants, and vitamins A, C, and K.
In folk medicine, arugula leaves and seeds were sometimes used to prepare poultices for treating skin irritations and minor wounds. The seeds, when pressed for oil, were incorporated into remedies for coughs and respiratory ailments. Its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties were also harnessed in traditional herbal infusions.
Arugula’s positive contributions extend to its use in herbal combinations. It blends well with other nutrient-dense greens such as spinach, dandelion, and parsley, amplifying the health benefits in tonics and green juices. When combined with herbs like mint and basil, arugula can enhance the detoxifying and digestive qualities of herbal teas and salads. Modern nutritional products often include arugula for its unique phytochemicals and its synergistic effects with other botanicals, supporting overall wellness, immune health, and metabolic function. Its historical and present-day utility underscores arugula's valuable role in both traditional and contemporary herbal medicine.
Traditional and scientific validation
Arugula (Eruca sativa), also known as rocket or rucola, has a long history of use in Mediterranean cuisine and traditional medicine. Historical records indicate that arugula was appreciated by the ancient Romans and Egyptians not only for its peppery flavor but also for its reputed health benefits, such as stimulating appetite and aiding digestion. In modern times, arugula has gained popularity as a nutritious leafy green, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, folate, calcium, and antioxidants, particularly glucosinolates, which are compounds studied for their potential protective effects against certain diseases.
Scientific investigations have begun to validate some of these traditional claims. Studies suggest that arugula's high antioxidant content may contribute to reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Its glucosinolates, when broken down into bioactive compounds like sulforaphane, have demonstrated potential in supporting cellular health and detoxification processes. Preliminary clinical research has explored arugula's role in cardiovascular health, with some findings indicating positive effects on blood pressure and lipid profiles due to its nitrate content, which may help improve vascular function.
Despite these promising findings, more comprehensive human clinical trials are needed to fully establish the extent of arugula's health benefits. While the effects have yet to be conclusively proven, current evidence supports its inclusion in a balanced diet as a flavorful and nutritious ingredient. Overall, arugula stands out as a valuable addition to nutritional products, offering both culinary versatility and potential health-promoting properties.
Arugula is used for these health conditions
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
Arugula is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Skeletal System (Bones) (Scientific)
Stomach (Traditional)