Medicinal herbs, vegetables, and fruits rich in nutrition have long played a key role in improving our health. Many of these plants have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times and form the foundation of Ayurveda. One such vegetable is beetroot, scientifically known as Beta vulgaris. This article explores its many benefits.
Beetroot is the taproot of the beet plant, primarily grown for its root and leaves. It originated in the Mediterranean region. Apart from being a food item, beetroot also acts as a medicinal plant and a natural food colorant. Its use dates back to the Middle Ages for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Benefits and Uses of Beetroot include its ability to lower blood pressure, boost stamina, and reduce inflammation, making it a widely used vegetable.
Beets are grown in about 40 countries. Leading producers include the US, Russia, France, Germany, Turkey, China, Ukraine, Poland, Egypt, and the UK. Russia is the top producer, yielding 45 million tons annually, while India contributes around 25-30 million tons. Indian states like Assam, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh are key beet producers. Benefits and Uses of Beetroot have made it a popular vegetable for both eating and medicinal uses.
Beetroot is a biennial root herb, growing up to 120 cm tall. Its oval leaves can grow up to 40 cm. Benefits and Uses of Beetroot include its ability to lower blood pressure, boost stamina, and reduce inflammation. The dark red root is used both as food and a natural colorant.
Regional names of Beetroot in various languages
| Language | Name |
| English | Beetroot |
| Hindi | Chukander |
| Telugu | Beetroot |
| Marathi | Biit |
| Tamil | Beet |
| Kannada | Beetroot |
| Malayalam | Beetroot |
Nutritional value of Beetroot per 100 grams
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Energy | 180 KJ (43 Kcal) |
| Carbohydrate | 9.56g |
| Sugar | 6.76g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8g |
| Fat | 0.17g |
| Protein | 1.61g |
vitamin content of Beetroot per 100 grams
| Vitamin | Amount |
| Vitamin A | 2 micrograms |
| Beta-carotene | 20 micrograms |
| Thiamine (B1) | 0.031mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.04mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.334mg |
| Pantothenic acid (B5) | 0.155mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.067mg |
| Folate (B9) | 109 micrograms |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.75 micrograms |
mineral and other constituent content of Beetroot per 100 grams
| Mineral | Amount |
| Calcium | 16 mg |
| Iron | 0.8 mg |
| Magnesium | 23 mg |
| Manganese | 0.329 mg |
| Phosphorus | 40 mg |
| Potassium | 325 mg |
| Sodium | 78 mg |
| Zinc | 0.35 mg |
| Other Constituents | Amount |
| Water | 87.58 g |
Scientific classification of Beetroot (Beta vulgaris)
| Category | Details |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Clade | Tracheophytes |
| Clade | Angiosperms |
| Clade | Eudicots |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Beta |
| Species | B. vulgaris |
Health Benefits of Beetroot
- Lowers Blood Pressure: Beets contain nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. This compound helps relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure.
- Improves Stamina: Nitrates in beetroot are converted to nitric oxide, which enhances stamina by reducing oxygen consumption during low-intensity exercises and increasing tolerance for high-intensity activities.
- Supports Heart Health: Beetroot can reduce triglycerides and cholesterol while increasing good cholesterol (HDL). This helps prevent conditions like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.
- Reduces Birth Defects: Beetroot is rich in folate (vitamin B9), essential for the healthy development of the baby’s spine in the womb, reducing the risk of birth defects in the nervous system.
- May Help with Dementia: Beetroot juice improves blood flow to the brain, helping combat cognitive decline and potentially reducing the progression of dementia.
Extra Health Benefits
- Prevents Respiratory Problems: The vitamin C in beetroot acts as an antioxidant, boosting the immune system and preventing lung diseases, including lung cancer, due to the presence of beta carotene.
- Purifies Blood and Liver: Beetroot contains Betalin pigments, which aid in detoxification by helping remove toxins from the blood and liver.
- Promotes Eye Health: The beta-carotene in beetroot helps prevent cataracts and macular degeneration, reducing the risk of blindness in older adults.
- Boosts Liver Health: Beetroot juice, rich in nutrients like calcium, iron, and antioxidants, protects the liver by facilitating bile flow and removing toxins.
- Aphrodisiac Benefits: Beetroot contains boron, which helps produce sexual hormones, increasing libido and fertility, as well as improving sperm mobility.
Side Effects of Beetroot
- Pink Urine: Overconsumption can lead to a condition known as beeturia, where the urine turns pink.
- Kidney Stones: Due to its high oxalate content, excessive consumption may lead to kidney stones.
- Allergic Reactions: Rare allergic reactions can include skin rashes, itching, and cold-like symptoms.
- Pregnancy Concerns: Excessive beetroot intake may cause complications in pregnant People.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Overconsumption can aggravate gastrointestinal problems.
Uses of Beetroot
- Culinary Uses:
- Salads: Grate raw beetroot and add it to salads.
- Juices: Drink beetroot juice for its health benefits, or mix it with other vegetable juices.
- Soups: Use beetroot to make hearty soups, like borscht.
- Smoothies: Add beetroot to smoothies for a nutritious boost.
- Salads: Grate raw beetroot and add it to salads.
- Natural Food Coloring:
- Beetroot’s rich red color makes it a popular natural food dye, often used in cakes, candies, and beverages.
3. Skin Care:
- Beetroot juice can be applied to the skin to reduce blemishes and enhance complexion due to its high vitamin C content.
- Lip Care: Used in homemade lip balms to provide a natural pink tint and moisturizing benefits.
4. Hair Health:
- Beetroot juice helps improve blood circulation to the scalp, which can support healthier hair growth and prevent hair loss.
5. Aphrodisiac:
- Beetroot has been used as a natural aphrodisiac for its ability to boost libido and fertility, thanks to the presence of boron.
Conclusion
Beetroot (Beta vulgaris) is a highly nutritious vegetable with various health benefits. Benefits and Uses of Beetroot include its ability to lower blood pressure, boost stamina, and reduce inflammation, making it a valuable addition to your diet. However, moderation is key, and it is recommended to consult a doctor if you plan to use beetroot for medicinal purposes. Always enjoy beetroot as part of a balanced diet for optimal health benefits.
FAQs
1. How does beetroot help our body?
Ans: Beetroot is rich in folate (vitamin B9), which aids in cell growth and function, promoting heart health by reducing blood vessel damage.
2. Who should avoid eating beetroot?
Ans: People with abnormal blood pressure or those on blood pressure medication should consult their doctor before consuming beetroot.
3. Is beetroot good for hair?
Ans: Yes, beetroot helps improve blood circulation to the scalp, nourishing hair follicles and preventing hair loss.
4. Can we eat raw beetroot?
Ans: Yes, you can eat raw beetroot after peeling its skin. You can add it to salads or use it as a garnish for soups.
5. Is beetroot good for the liver?
Ans: Yes, beetroot juice supports liver detoxification, reduces oxidative stress, and enhances natural detoxification enzymes.
My self Anita Sahani. I have completed my B.Com from Purbanchal College Silapathar. I am working in Dev Library as a Content Manager. A website that provides all SCERT, NCERT 3 to 12, and BA, B.com, B.Sc, and Computer Science with Post Graduate Notes & Suggestions, Novel, eBooks, Health, Finance, Biography, Quotes, Study Materials, and more.
