Evidence supporting the use of: Land Cress
For the health condition: Scurvy
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4
Land Cress (Barbarea verna) is justified for use in supporting or treating scurvy based on scientific evidence. Scurvy is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which is essential for collagen synthesis and overall health. Land Cress is notable for its high vitamin C content; according to food composition databases and nutritional analyses, Land Cress contains significant amounts of vitamin C, often comparable to or exceeding that of more commonly known sources like watercress or even some citrus fruits.
Historically, plants rich in vitamin C have been used to prevent and treat scurvy, especially before modern dietary supplements were available. While there is more historical documentation for the use of other vitamin C-rich plants (such as citrus fruits and watercress), the rationale for Land Cress is straightforward and supported by its nutrient profile.
Modern scientific understanding confirms that any food high in vitamin C can help prevent and treat scurvy if consumed in sufficient quantities. There are no specific clinical trials on Land Cress and scurvy, but the well-established link between dietary vitamin C and prevention of scurvy, along with analytical data on Land Cress's vitamin C content, provide a solid scientific basis for its use in this context.