Watercress
Nasturtium officinale
Nasturtium officinale, commonly known as watercress, originates from traditional medicine practices in Europe and has a long history of use as both food and folk remedy. Traditionally, it was used to treat various ailments such as respiratory issues and digestive problems, though specific uses vary across different cultures. Scientific evidence suggests that Nasturtium officinale may possess antioxidant properties, with one study indicating high DPPH radical scavenging capacity and selective prebiotic effects. Additionally, a rat model showed potential protective effects against colonic inflammation by normalizing antioxidant enzymes and reducing inflammatory markers. Another study identified NoMYB90 as a positive regulator of anthocyanin biosynthesis in watercress leaves, highlighting its nutritional benefits. However, the evidence for its impact on lipid profiles and antioxidant markers is mixed, showing variable results among different groups. Safety records indicate no major issues have been recorded with Nasturtium officinale use. There are currently no known drug interactions associated with this plant.
- 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
- Nasturtium officinale showed high DPPH radical scavenging capacity and selective prebiotic effects in this study.
- The study found that watercress leaf methanolic extract showed protective effects against DSS-induced colonic inflammation in rats by normalizing antioxidant enzymes and reducing inflammatory markers.
- The study identified NoMYB90 as a positive regulator of anthocyanin biosynthesis in watercress.
- Watercress consumption showed variable effects on lipid profiles and antioxidant markers among non-smokers, smokers, and secondhand smoke-exposed individuals.
Frequently asked questions
What is Watercress?
Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) 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 Watercress?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Watercress; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Nasturtium officinale showed high DPPH radical scavenging capacity and selective prebiotic effects in this study.
How strong is the evidence for Watercress?
The strongest finding for Watercress carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Watercress safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Watercress in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Watercress interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Watercress in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Watercress?
Watercress is also known as: Жеруха обыкновенная, cresson de fontaine.
Is Watercress 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 Impact of Watercress Consumption on Antioxidant Defense and Oxidative Stress Among Adults with Different Levels of Exposure to Cigarette Smoke in Chiang Mai, Thailand. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Genome-wide study of the R2R3-MYB gene family and analysis of NoMYB90 promoting anthocyanin biosynthesis in watercress (Nasturtium officinale R.Br.). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Advancing aquafeed: prebiotic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory benefits of innovative ingredients from farming systems. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Protective effects of watercress (Nasturtium officinale) leaf methanolic extract against dextran sodium sulfate induced colon inflammation in rats. literature abstract metadata