Chives – Allium schoenoprasum

Chives may not belong to the herbs, but it is an excellent plant with great nutritional value that is worth adding to our daily diet. It goes well with many culinary creations such as salads, sauces, soups, cheese, eggs and potatoes, has a mild taste compared to the onion and garlic that belong to the same family and has many therapeutic applications!

A great healing herb!

More specifically, the most important property of chives is the enhancement of the healthy function of the heart. The potassium content and of course the allicin contained in chives, help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure, thus protecting the heart. All of the above contribute to protection against atherosclerosis and heart diseases, better blood circulation and elasticity of arteries.

Another important property is the strengthening of the bones. This property can not be due to anything other than the high content of vitamin K. Adequate intake maintains bone density at healthy levels and promotes faster recovery from fractures and injuries. At the same time it protects against the appearance of osteopenia and osteoporosis, keeping our skeletal system healthy.

It offers protection against cancer and strengthens the immune system. The antioxidant action of chives, combined with the high content of minerals and trace elements, offer protection against many types of cancer, such as prostate, stomach, intestine, breast, lung, mouth, ovary and esophagus. In addition to the protection it offers, studies show that chives and related plants, such as garlic and onions, can reduce tumors with regular consumption. Vitamin C also plays an important role in boosting the immune system. Chives are rich in vitamin C.

Beneficial for the healthy functioning of the digestive system, chives destroy bacteria and especially the salmonella family, protecting the digestive system from infections. At the same time, by cleansing the digestive tract, it allows the body to absorb more nutrients. As a result, consumption contributes significantly to indigestion and bloating.

Protects and enhances vision. Chives with a significant content of lutein zeaxanthin and carotenoids, reduces the chances and delays the appearance of cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration. At the same time it improves the overall vision, keeping it healthy in old age.

Improves psychology and mood. The choline contained in chives is an important ingredient that offers better sleep, improves memory and learning ability. The complex of B vitamins, protects the nervous system and helps treat depression and mood swings.

Protects against genetic abnormalities. Folic acid, or vitamin B9, plays an important role, like all B-complex vitamins, as adequacy ensures the healthy development of the fetus. Chives are a rich source and safe to consume for the development of a physically and mainly neurologically healthy fetus.

Of course, another property of chives, common with onion and garlic, is its antimicrobial, antibacterial and antibiotic action. Together with vitamin C, it destroys germs on the skin and inside.

Special mention should be made of allicin, a compound that will be found exclusively in the family that chives belongs, and contributes significantly to lowering cholesterol, blood pressure and of course the result is the protection of the heart and circulatory system.

Possible side effects from overconsumption are nausea. Within normal consumption, it is safe during pregnancy and lactation, with the sole exception of possible chives allergy.

Read about the nutritional value of chives and its cultivation!