Broccoli is mainly recognized by its small dark green curds on stem like stalks, giving a tree-like look. It is known under the scientific name Brassica aleracea and is a native of Italy. Belonging to the Brassica family of the Cruciferous vegetables, this mass of flower heads is surrounded by leaves and very closely resembles the cauliflower. Broccoli is known to have a history of more than 2000 years.

Nutritional Analysis :

Broccoli ranks high in the nutrients beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, , thiamine, niacin, Panthothenic acid, riboflavin, Vitamin C, K and A. It is also rich in the minerals zinc, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, calcium and iron.

Health Benefits :

Broccoli contains sulphoraphane and glucoraphanin, which are known for their anti-cancer and anti-tumor property. They have been shown in studies to be helpful in the prevention of malignancy in the epithelial tissue of the lung, colon and the breast. The 3,3'-Diindolylmethane found in this green curd plant is found to be a potent modulator to boost the immune system of the human body. It helps regulate food digestion, blood pressure and combat illnesses like toxemis and neuritis. It's high fiber content helps prevent constipation, and its anti-viral and anti bacterial properties help combat Alzheimer's disease. It is also seen to fight arthritis and osteoporosis. Broccoli is also extremely rich in omega-3 fatty acids which make it a perfect vegetable to reduce bad cholesterol. Omega-3 fatty acids also take good care of the skin, making it young and glowing. Also this plant is used as a detoxifying agent to purify blood and keeping toxins like boils, itches, rashes, gout, arthritis, renal calculi, eczema and rheumatism at bay.

Preparations :

Broccoli can be cooked (steamed or fried), pickled or extracted in the form of juice. Broccoli's juice powder is also available for commercial use.

References:

‘Broccoli' Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary (11th ed.). p. 156. ISBN 9780877798095 .

Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick (2007-05-15). "Research Says Boiling Broccoli Ruins Its Anti Cancer Properties" .

Kirsh, VA; Peters U, Mayne ST, Subar AF, Chatterjee N, Johnson CC, Hayes RB (2007). "Prospective study of fruit and vegetable intake and risk of prostate cancer". Journal of the National Cancer Institute 99 (15): 1200–9. doi : 10.1093/jnci/djm065 . PMID 17652276 .

Clout, Laura (5 September 2009). "Broccoli beats heart disease" . Daily Express . . Retrieved 5 September 2009 .