chard
Beta vulgaris cicla
Beta vulgaris cicla, commonly known as Swiss chard, is a leafy green vegetable with origins tracing back to traditional European and Mediterranean cuisines. While it has been used in cooking for centuries, its specific medicinal uses are not well-documented in traditional medicine practices. Scientific studies have shown that both Swiss chard and beetroot (Beta vulgaris rubra) contain compounds with potential health benefits, including antioxidant and antiproliferative activities. These findings suggest possible applications in supporting overall health and potentially aiding in cancer therapy when used alongside conventional treatments. The study indicates that blanching Swiss chard at temperatures above 90°C can effectively inactivate polyphenoloxidase, preventing the vegetable from darkening during cooking. Phytochemicals from both green and red beets exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative activities, though more research is needed to confirm these findings. To date, no major safety issues or drug interactions have been reported for Swiss chard.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study suggests that Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris cicla) and beetroot (Beta vulgaris rubra) contain compounds with potential health benefits, including antioxidant and antiproliferative activities.
- Blanching Swiss chard at temperatures above 90°C effectively inactivates polyphenoloxidase, preventing darkening.
- The study found that phytochemicals from green and red beets exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative activities, with potential use in combination with conventional anticancer drugs.
- The study found that vitexin-2-O-xyloside (VOX) is absorbed unchanged and undergoes enterohepatic recirculation in rats.
- The study found that encapsulating beet juice with maltodextrin or inulin increased its solubility and reduced hygroscopicity, while non-encapsulated beet powder showed higher antioxidant activity.
Frequently asked questions
What is chard?
chard (Beta vulgaris cicla) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about chard?
5 sourced findings are recorded for chard; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study suggests that Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris cicla) and beetroot (Beta vulgaris rubra) contain compounds with potential health benefits, including antioxidant and antiproliferative activities.
How strong is the evidence for chard?
The strongest finding for chard carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is chard safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for chard in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does chard interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for chard in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of chard?
chard is also known as: мангольд, bette.
Is chard a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Nutritional and functional potential of Beta vulgaris cicla and rubra. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Caecal absorption of vitexin-2-O-xyloside and its aglycone apigenin, in the rat. literature abstract metadata
- T2 C-Glycosyl Flavonoids from Beta vulgaris Cicla and Betalains from Beta vulgaris rubra: Antioxidant, Anticancer and Antiinflammatory Activities-A Review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Characterization of Beet Root Extract (Beta vulgaris) Encapsulated with Maltodextrin and Inulin. literature abstract metadata
- T2 [Thermal inactivation of the enzymes polyphenoloxidase and peroxidase in Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris, cicla)]. literature abstract metadata