Colza - useful properties and contraindications

Colza is a herbaceous plant from the Cabbage family. It is distributed practically throughout Europe, including in Russia. They brought colza to Japan, as well as to the African continent and even to Australia. In our country, three subspecies of colza are common - arcuate, ordinary, straight. Many nationalities know it as the so-called grass of St. Barbara. In botany, there is even a special section that studies this plant. It is called the super series.

Characteristic

What does this mysterious plant look like? Its height reaches 80 centimeters. The stem of the colza is usually covered with a barely noticeable fluff. The leaves of the plant are lyre-shaped, and the flowers have a yellow-golden color. In this case, they have four petals, and five stamens. The fruit of the colza is oblong, inside it are oval-shaped seeds about 3 millimeters long and 1 millimeter wide.

People who are not very well versed in plants often take colza for a common weed that grows along roadsides and in the garden. But in vain, because this herb is very valuable, as it has many useful properties. Especially good is colza in the treatment of reproductive organs in the stronger sex.

The composition of the plant is rich in organic acids, essential oils, fiber, flavonoids and vitamins. The flowers, leaves and stems of colza are used in herbal medicine. Gourmets even use this plant as a seasoning, but this should be done sparingly so as not to spoil their dish.

As for growing colza, this is a very simple task. Since it is a weed, it will grow well on moist soils.

Advice! When harvesting raw materials, avoid plants that are damaged by insects and other pests.

Colza is a very good honey plant. During its flowering period, the plant reproduces a lot of pollen and a large amount of nectar that bees like to collect. One hectare of this herb can bring 30-50 kilograms of honey. The sweetness will have a greenish-yellow color and a weak, but quite pleasant aroma. Such honey is quickly sugared because it contains a high percentage of glucose.

Young leaves of colza are suitable for salad. Their taste vaguely resembles mustard. The green part of the herb can be added to the soup or side dish.

The list of useful properties of colza and its individual components

In folk medicine, colza is actively used, because it allows you to fight a number of diseases.

1. The seeds of this herb are an effective antibacterial agent due to the fact that they contain thioglycosides. They also increase the production of gastric juice and increase appetite. Fatty oils of colza seeds can be used in the food industry, for example, when baking bread. Such a product is recommended for those who suffer from asthenic syndrome or have disorders of the nervous system.
2. The antiseptic effect boasts the root of colza. His infusions are drunk with prostatitis and infertility. And he is an excellent diuretic.
3. The colza flowers will improve the body's immune system. Their effect on the genitourinary system will also be positive. They can be harvested in spring, summer and autumn. This has no effect on beneficial properties.
4. The leaves of colza not only give a spicy taste to dishes in the kitchen, but are also very rich in vitamin C and organic acids.
5. The juice squeezed from the leaves of colza will help to heal and disinfect the wound.
6. Researchers have proven that this plant improves sleep, fights against chronic diseases, increases the level of oxygen in brain tissue, and tones the entire body. They recommend the use of colza during the rehabilitation of the patient after a heart attack or stroke.

In what cases can colza be harmful?

As mentioned above, this plant has found its application in cooking. However, you need to use it very carefully and in no case should be abused. A large amount of colza used can poison the human body.

Important! If you live in a private sector and have a farm, do not use this weed to feed your animals and birds. In colza seeds there are toxic substances for them.

Since this plant has a diuretic effect, it is worth giving up on those who are diagnosed with urolithiasis. Colza enhances the functioning of the kidneys and the stones that they have may begin to move toward the bladder at the wrong time. This is especially dangerous in the case of large stones. The presence of sand in the kidneys is not a contraindication to the use of colza. But increased bleeding and stomach ulcers are just one of them.

Recipes

1. Infusion of dry colza. Bring 200 grams of water to a boil and fill them with 20 grams. herbs. All this must be infused for at least three hours. The resulting liquid is filtered. This infusion will help strengthen the body and relieve swelling. It should be taken 4 times a day for 40-50 milliliters.
2. Effective infusion against prostatitis. Grind 1 tablespoon of colza root. Bring 300 grams of water to a boil. Combine these ingredients and let it brew for a couple of hours. Take before meals. Dosage - 1/3 cup. This infusion is also good with a general breakdown.
3. Colza with adenoma. Grind 1 teaspoon of plant seeds and fill them with a glass of water. We put on fire, bring to a boil. After the seeds are boiled for 6-7 minutes, let the liquid brew for at least an hour. You need to take 2 times a day at least 20-30 minutes before the meal. The recommended dose is half a glass.
4. An infusion that improves spermatogenesis. Mix the colza with the seeds of carrots, parsley, plantain, black onion and coriander. The proportions are observed equal. Pour the mixture with boiling water (500 grams) and cook on low heat for half an hour. The resulting substance must be infused for at least 8 hours. You need to take it in the morning and evening, preparing for bed. The recommended dosage is half a glass.
5. Tonic tea from colza. For one and a half glasses of boiling water, we need 2 teaspoons of chopped herbs. We insist it all half an hour and filter. You can consume 2-3 cups of this infusion daily.
6. Infusion against infertility in men. Grind the grass (about 30 grams) and pour vodka (a half-liter bottle is enough). It’s not worth saving on a drink, it should be of high quality. After 2 weeks of infusion, the resulting liquid is filtered. It will need to be taken 3 times a day before meals. Dose - 1 tablespoon.
7. Vitamin salad from colza. This dish is not only tasty, but also good for our health. In equivalent proportions, mix colza leaves with green onions. Add finely chopped egg and season with sour cream. Salt, pepper, depending on personal preferences.

Video: medicinal properties and the use of colza