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Alternative medicine: Strawberry
Sun, 18 May 2008 22:11:37
By Patricia Khashayar, MD., Press TV, Tehran
Strawberries are not only heart healthy but also help lower cholesterol levels, reduce weight and
prevent against Alzheimer's disease.
Botanical: Fragaria vesca
Family: N.O. Rosaceae
Habitat:
The Garden Strawberry was first bred in Europe in the early 18th century,
Description:
Strawberry is a soft red sweet-flavored juicy fruit, with yellow seeds on its surface and a small
green leafy cap and stem adorning its crown.
Part Used Medicinally:
Fruit, leaves
Constituents:
One cup of strawberry contains over 100 mg of vitamin C, almost equal to a cup of orange juice.
Strawberry is also a good source of dietary fiber, omega fatty acids and iodine.
While strawberry only contains 45 calories, it is rich in vitamin B2, B5, B6, vitamin K, copper,
calcium, magnesium, folate, iron, zinc and potassium.
Phytonutrients including flavonoids, anthocyanidins and ellagic acid are other beneficial
compounds found in strawberries.
Medicinal Uses:
Strawberry is rich in antioxidants and other essential nutrients that help reduce the risk of
developing cancer, heart disease, inflammatory diseases and birth defects.
Strawberry is high in magnesium, which helps muscular and nervous system relaxation, and
promotes undisturbed sleep.
Its high vitamin C content helps lower the risk of arthritis and gout. It is also essential for a
healthy immune system and resistance to infection particularly colds and flu.
Strawberry prevents the decline in motor and cognitive skills commonly related to aging and
particularly to Alzheimer's disease.
Its high fiber content improves the absorption of nutrients and stabilizes blood glucose while
inhibiting cholesterol production. Strawberry is a good choice in weight loss diets.
http://www.presstv.ir/pop/print.aspx?id=56330 7/15/2008

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It helps fight stress and is protective against the severe form of a vision-destroying disease
known as macular degeneration.
Strawberry is effective in treating gastritis and diarrhea and improves liver function.
Anthocyanins, the pigments responsible for the strawberry's color, are powerful antioxidants,
which help protect cells from free radical damage. They act as cholesterol fighters and immune
boosters and possess anti cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.
Strawberry improves skin circulation, resulting in a youthful and attractive glow. It protects the
skin against sun damage, improves wound healing and staves off wrinkles.
Strawberry alleviates varicose veins, reduces bruising and inflammation.
Rubbing strawberry on the teeth and gums helps remove tartar and strengthen the gums.
Preparation:
As strawberries are perishable, they should only be purchased a few days prior to use. It should
not be washed until right before eating due to the fragility of its anthocyanins.
Caution:
Strawberry is among the foods most commonly associated with allergic reactions including
eczema, hives, skin rash, headache, runny nose, itchy eyes, wheezing, gastrointestinal
disturbances, depression, hyperactivity and insomnia.
Strawberry has measurable amounts of oxalates, which can crystallize and cause kidney or
gallbladder stones.
It contains goitrogens that can interfere with the thyroid gland's function; therefore, individuals
with thyroid problems should not consume strawberries.
PKH/AA/HGH
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http://www.presstv.ir/pop/print.aspx?id=56330 7/15/2008