Sorrel Leaves: Nutritional Value, Uses, Health Benefits and much more

Sorrel is a European vegetable with a lush green appearance. It has a citrus, biting flavour. Garden sorrel, also known as common sorrel, is a perennial herb. From pale to dark green, their color gamut is diverse. They have an arrowhead shape, similar to spinach leaves. As they mature, they get more acidic in flavour. The sour dock variant has a strong flavour, whereas the dock sorrel variant has a mild flavor. Sorrel leaves are known as chukkakura in southern India. Other names include Gongura or Puli Keerai. 

The presence of oxalic acid gives it a sour flavor. In fact, it gets its name from a French word that means "sour." When taken in significant amounts, oxalic acid can be harmful. Sorrel leaves are accessible throughout the year. 

Nutritional Value

• Vitamin A, B9, and C are all abundant in this fruit.

• It contains important minerals like potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, and calcium.

• Flavonoids present in sorrel have been shown to be effective in preventing certain types of cancer.

• It's a fantastic source of calcium and can help women maintain their bone health and avoid diseases like osteoporosis.

• Blood pressure can be lowered by drinking tea made from sorrel leaves.

• Sorrel is a versatile herb that may be used in cooking as a fresh or dried herb, as well as in hot and cold teas.

• Because of its high oxalic acid content, sorrel may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with rheumatism, bladder, or kidney stones.

• It has a modest calorie content but plenty of nutritional fibre.

• It has strong laxative qualities, and too much of it can cause diarrhea.

Also Read - 10 Surprising Benefits of Guava Leaves for Skin, Hair and Overall Health

Crisp leaves in a vivid green color were chosen. Any yellowed or wilted woody leaves or stems should be avoided. 

Sorrel leaves Usage

Sorrel leaves can be used in soups and sauces, as well as salads. Sorrel leaves are used to make a form of pickle in India. 

They are frequently used as salad leaves and in cream of sorrel soup. Spinach, pepper, potatoes, eggs, salmon, mustard, and olive oil go nicely with sorrel leaves. 

Health Benefits of Sorrel leaves: 

• Enhance your eyesight: These leaves are high in vitamin A, which helps to improve eyesight and prevent night blindness.

• Weight loss assistance: They are high in vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates while being low in fat and calories. Experts say that eating these leaves on a regular basis can help you lose weight.

• Detoxifying element: They are diuretic and purgative because they contain flavonoids and antioxidants. Fresh leaf juice aids in detoxification and the removal of toxic poisons from the body. Bloating is also relieved by drinking fresh juice.

• Blood pressure is reduced: Antioxidants are beneficial in lowering harmful cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body, as well as reducing general inflammation. All of this contributes to a reduction in blood pressure.