Amaranthus viridis L.

Occurrence

Indigenous to Central and South America.

Historical Background

This plant is an ancestral superfood that was eaten regularly by the natives peoples of the Central and South American continent, as well as the West Indies.

One of the theories of how the Venezuelan capital of Caracas got its name is because of an indigenous nation named "Caracas". Caracas got their name from this plant that was widely consumed by them and still grows as a weed in this city.

During colonial times, the Spanish systematically tried to eradicate this plant species by cutting down and burning it due to seeing the importance it played in the indigenous people's diet and spiritual practices. The food was replaced by less nutrient-dense wheat.

Indigenous and Afro-diasporic descendants who still consumed it during that period saw it as an act of resistance and keeping their ancestral traditions and diet alive. Today, a high percentage of the population believes it is just another weed and they are unaware of its existence and health benefits.

Nutritional use

The Amaranthus plant contains: calcium, zinc, potassium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, copper, vitamin B1, B2, B3, A, C. Amino acids such as lysine contained in meat and dairy, folic acid. It is high in protein and higher in fiber than wheat, corn, and rice. It is also gluten-free.

Every part of the plant is edible and there are no poisonous species within the Amaranthus family.

Medicinal properties

The infusion of this plant is used as an astringent to inhibit metrorrhagia. In Peru, the species is used for bronchitis and to treat tuberculosis as well as other pulmonary problems. In Venezuela, the plant is used to oxygenate the cerebrovascular system, it is eaten as a salad, or drank as a tea to treat different neurological conditions, help with hallucinations, and paranoia. The infusion stimulates pituitary and thymus glands. The plant is used for inflammations, depression, anxiety, fever, pectoral diseases, intestinal parasites, combats diarrhea, internal hemorrhage, intense menstrual bleeding, cures wounds, concussions, rheumatism, cough, and ulcers. It is also used for people with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Aids in memory and concentration.

"Amaranthus viridis" by Dinesh Valke is licensed under CC BY 2