 |
SPINACH SPINACIA OLERACEA Useful to temper the heat and sharpness of the humours. The well-known vegetable, with broad sharp-pointed leaves and spikes of tiny green flowers. Where to find it: Mainly grown in gardens in all temperate regions, but may be found wild near to places where it has been cultivated. Flowering time: Late spring to early autumn. Astrology: Not assigned to any planet. Medicinal virtues: It is more used as food than for medicine and is much eaten as boiled salad. It cools and moistens and promotes the urine flow. Modern uses: Still mainly used for food. The leaves are rich in minerals, particularly iron and calcium, and are recommended for anaemic persons. It also supplies vitamin A, C and K and folic acid. It is best grown organically, as chemical fertilisers tend to lower the vitamin content. A food for convalescence and for growing children. |