Judging by the fact that Jerusalem artichoke has several sonorous names (tuberous dory, earthen pear, solar root, Jerusalem artichoke), people fell in love with this plant different countries and continents. The homeland of this root crop is North America, in the era of great conquests it migrated to the Old World, and from there it spread to Asia. Due to the similarity in palatability with potatoes, Jerusalem artichoke may well replace the “ground apple” in some dishes. It is known that the benefits and harms of Jerusalem artichoke have already been the subject of research in medicine and nutrition. There are some cases (we will mention them later) when the use of Jerusalem artichoke is undesirable. However, in general, from him - sheer benefit fatigued by loads and negative environmental factors.
What does Jerusalem artichoke look like? The flower looks like a small sunflower, the stems of the plant are high (up to 2 m), and the roots look like ginger, and taste like potatoes with a hint of sweetness or a head of cabbage.
Storehouse of nutrients
Jerusalem artichoke or ground pear is rich in organic acids, trace elements, vitamin plant components that give a person health and ease the course of diseases.
The chemical composition of Jerusalem artichoke, in addition to common vitamins (carotene, PP, C, B1, B2), is represented by many unique substances and useful natural compounds.
| Organic acids (malic, raspberry, succinic and fumaric) | antioxidant action. |
| Pectins | body cleansing; normalization and regulation of the intestines; removal of harmful cholesterol compounds, toxic substances (pesticides, heavy metal compounds, radioactive substances) that provoke the occurrence of atherosclerosis and cholelithiasis... |
| Inulin | decrease in blood glucose levels; help with diabetes and pancreatitis. |
| Silicon | participates in the process of collagen formation, heals hair, skin, nails; strengthens bone tissue. |
You can learn more about what kind of amazing plant this is Jerusalem artichoke, what properties it has, as well as its benefits and harms for the body, from the video at the end of the article.
Medicinal and dietary properties
Knowing the medicinal properties and contraindications of Jerusalem artichoke, you can competently approach the issue of maintaining your health in good condition.
- Jerusalem artichoke activates and normalizes the functions of many body systems - nervous, immune, endocrine, circulatory.
- "Earth pear" stimulates lactation: if a mother has little or no milk, taking raw tubers and Jerusalem artichoke juice can bring back the joy of breastfeeding.
- Due to the healing effect and beneficial properties, Jerusalem artichoke is recommended for use in various pathological conditions of the liver: cirrhosis, hepatitis of various origins and severity, obesity, intoxication.
- With the regular use of this root vegetable, the intestines get rid of the products of decay, a healthy beneficial microflora is formed in it.
- The invaluable benefits of the “solar root” allow it to be used in the treatment of complex ailments (for example, the use of Jerusalem artichoke products in diabetes is known) and even for the prevention of oncology.
Assistant for serious illnesses
Jerusalem artichoke is useful for diabetes, because its tubers contain a natural analogue of insulin - inulin, which is a soluble polysaccharide. When inulin enters the human body, the process of its splitting begins, and part of the inulin is converted into fructose molecules, which remove toxic decay products of various substances from the blood. Unsplit parts of inulin help cleanse the body of bad cholesterol. The help of Jerusalem artichoke to the body will be invaluable in case of pancreatitis, because due to the decrease in blood sugar, the regulation of the pancreas occurs.
Cautions
According to experts, it is impossible to significantly harm the body by using Jerusalem artichoke. But of course, there are contraindications, as with all products:
- Individual intolerance is considered a rare phenomenon. earthen pear". Never tasting Jerusalem artichoke, you should not use it in in large numbers. It is enough to check the reaction of the body with a small dose of the product. If any negative consequences not noticed, you can safely use it for the treatment and prevention of diseases.
- Because of high content in the roots of Jerusalem artichoke inulin and fiber, the intestines can “respond” with excessive gas formation and discomfort. Therefore, eat raw vegetable should not be used by those who are prone to flatulence. But dishes made from Jerusalem artichoke, seasoned with cumin, cilantro, on the contrary, reduce gas formation.
Tip: When choosing root crops, you need to pay attention to their appearance- they should be dry, and there should be no spots or damage on the outside of the peel. How to store Jerusalem artichoke to save the maximum of useful substances? If you want to store fresh root crops, then the storage room should be well ventilated, without temperature changes. It is desirable that the temperature there be kept no higher than 15. In addition, you can freeze or dry these useful tubers.
Accept for health benefits
The tubers of the "earthen pear" are used both raw and subjected to various heat treatment- boil, fry, prepare desserts and drinks from them (for example, broth or kvass). How to use Jerusalem artichoke to improve the body? Preferably in fresh(only need to peel the tubers, like potatoes, and cut them into cubes), in the form of powder or juice.
Tip: If you do not have any ailments and just want to cleanse the body of toxins, then for preventive purposes you can eat fresh root vegetables three times three times a day in portions of 150 g 25-30 minutes before meals for 5 days. The work of the intestines is normalized, the vessels will acquire a “second youth”, many organs and systems will come into tone.
Juice consumption
By treating with Jerusalem artichoke juice, you can get rid of constipation, reduce the acidity of the stomach, alleviate the condition of inflamed organs, improve metabolism and “cleanse” the urinary system.
Recipe:
To prepare juice from the "earthen pear", fresh root crops must be thoroughly washed, but not peeled. Then they are either passed through a meat grinder, or crushed with an ordinary grater. The slurry must be squeezed out, strain the liquid through gauze. Further, the juice is taken according to the recommendations, depending on the indications. It is important to remember that this freshly squeezed product must be stored in the refrigerator, but no more than 12 hours to preserve everything. unique properties Jerusalem artichoke.
Tip: For the prevention of atherosclerosis, mild cleaning of the digestive tract and intestines, you need to take juice for 10-14 days, 150 ml per day, once before meals.
Powder consumption
Recipe:
It is good to dry thin slices of Jerusalem artichoke in an oven or a special dryer for fruits until they become brown. Then they can be ground in a coffee grinder or thoroughly crushed in a mortar. The resulting powder is brewed with boiling water, infused for up to 5 minutes. and enjoy this fortified drink, which is in no way inferior in taste to “coffee” from chicory, and even surpasses it in certain beneficial and healing properties!
So, in the absence of contraindications, the use of Jerusalem artichoke will bring much more benefit than harm.
All materials on the website Priroda-Znaet.ru are presented for informational purposes only. Before using any means, consultation with a doctor is MANDATORY!
Jerusalem artichoke is an unpretentious perennial that came to our country at the end of the 17th century. It was borrowed from North America, where the Jerusalem artichoke tribe of Brazilian Indians grew the plant for food. The name of this culture came from the name of the tribe. However, other names are also known. For example, "Volga turnip", "earthen pear"It is called in Russia," Jerusalem artichoke "it can be called in Europe.
Less common names are "solar root" and "bulb".
What does Jerusalem artichoke look like
Relatively speaking, the plant looks like a mixture of potatoes and sunflowers. Jerusalem artichoke bears fruit in the same way as potatoes - with tubers, and blooms like a sunflower, only its flowers are much smaller. Its scientific name is "tuberous sunflower from the Astrov family".
Now there are already more than three hundred varieties of perennial. But most often, when mentioning Jerusalem artichoke, we mean a plant that reaches a height of 3-4 meters, outwardly similar to a sunflower. Some gardeners use it as a hedge in their garden. The plant does not require special conditions, very unpretentious O. Its fruits resemble both potatoes and pears and come in purple, pink and yellow hues. Tubers grow both small and very large.
The taste of root crops usually resembles a cabbage stalk, but if the crop is harvested in the spring (this is also possible), then taste it's rather sweet potato. In general, Jerusalem artichoke would easily replace potatoes for us if it could be stored for a long time. The usefulness of the Jerusalem artichoke rolls over, you can cook it in different ways. And it is used not only in cooking, but also for restoration health and disease relief.
The unique chemical composition of the ground pear
When you find out what healthy substances the Jerusalem artichoke roots contain, you are surprised that it not very popular among our population. Perhaps this is due to the fact that many are not even aware of its existence.
Jerusalem artichoke is quite capable of eliminating beriberi. Vitamins were found in the composition of its tubers:
- B1, which is involved in the work of the digestive tract, nervous system and hearts.
- B2 regulates the functions of the reproductive system and thyroid gland.
- B3 or nicotinic acid is needed for the body to assimilate ascorbic acid.
- B5 is involved in metabolic processes, the production of hemoglobin, the production of cholesterol.
- B6 promotes the production of hemoglobin, provides "data exchange" between neurons and muscle tissue using nerve impulses.
- B7 or biotin is needed to regulate fat and protein metabolism, to produce an enzyme such as glucokinase.
The list of nutrients that the solar root contains does not end there. Its fruits contain the following elements necessary for maintaining health:
- potassium;
- calcium;
- magnesium;
- sodium;
- iron;
- silicon;
- inulin.
Amino acids are also found in root crops:
- Arginine is needed by children, the elderly and sick people to stimulate the immune system, produce growth hormone, nourish muscles, and rejuvenate the body.
- Valine is needed by the body to build tissues, reduce sensitivity to cold, pain, heat, and eliminate depressive states.
- Histidine promotes growth, tissue regeneration, treatment of anemia, allergies, ulcers, is an element of hemoglobin, supports hearing.
- Isoleucine is an amino acid that is not produced by the body, is a participant in energy metabolism and regulates blood sugar.
- Leucine "protects" muscle tissue, saves glucose, increases protein production, keeps glucose and protein molecules from destruction.
- Lysine is an essential amino acid that is part of proteins, provides growth processes. Breaks down fats and converts them into energy.
- Methionine helps to lower the level of cholesterol, fatty deposits in the liver, removes the symptoms of depression.
- Tryptophan is a magical amino acid that contributes to the normalization of the state of chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, bad mood, depression. It also helps to reduce body fat and increase muscle mass.
- Phenylalanine is necessary for the synthesis of the thyroid hormone thyroxine, as well as endorphins.
Jerusalem artichoke health benefits
Perhaps, having learned how useful this plant is, people will treat it differently. Use more often. After all unique composition solar root allows it to be used to treat many health disorders. And even without special recipes, but simply by regularly eating Jerusalem artichoke, you can feel the improvement in your condition.
In recipes for the purpose of treatment, not only tubers are used, but also leaves and stems. Juice and decoctions are prepared from the Jerusalem artichoke. Pharmacies even sell syrups.
Daily use solar root has a positive effect on the state of the following body systems:
- immune;
- endocrine;
- nervous;
- digestive.
In addition, it cleanses the body of radioactive elements and toxins, affects the condition of the joints, sugar level and can reduce the acidity in the stomach.
With diabetes
Even official medicine recommends Jerusalem artichoke for treatment diabetes. It is especially effective in type I and type II diabetes. But you need to take an earthen pear regularly. In this disease, decoctions from tubers and juice will benefit. As well as the use of raw root vegetables.
Own useful action in this case, Jerusalem artichoke renders thanks to inulin, which replaces glucose in metabolic processes, and also affects its absorption, which lowers the sugar level. As soon as glucose level stabilizes, the pancreas will begin to synthesize its own insulin.
Raw Jerusalem artichoke tubers should be consumed three times a day, 1 piece 15 minutes before meals. You can dry the roots, make a powder out of them and use it one teaspoon before meals twice a day. For decoction preparation raw tubers are poured with boiling water and kept in a water bath for 20 minutes. Then the decoction is taken in a day, you need to drink 1 liter of healing liquid per day. Decoction, by the way, helps with excess weight.
Benefits for joints
There is little information anywhere that silicon is required for joint health. It turns out that this microelement involved in regeneration synovial membrane of the joint. And only 50 grams of fresh Jerusalem artichoke per day relieves pain and stiffness, but subject to regular use. It is recommended for radiculitis, rheumatoid arthritis.
Effect on pancreatitis
Violation of metabolic and circulatory processes accompany a disease such as pancreatitis. Raw solar root is able to remove inflammation and restore metabolism. To achieve the result, at least 150 grams of unpeeled root crops should be eaten daily. In addition, in this case, a decoction will be effective, you can eat boiled and dried fruits, but do not fry Jerusalem artichoke, bake or boil. Such foods will only exacerbate the disease.
Jerusalem artichoke for weight loss
Among other things, useful influence on the body with the help of Jerusalem artichoke, you can gently reduce your weight. Fiber in the composition of the fruit cleanses the intestines from toxins and toxins. This, in turn, leads to an acceleration of metabolism and, accordingly, to the burning of fat reserves.
You may have already guessed that the calorie content of an earthen pear is only 61 kcal, and therefore Jerusalem artichoke is great for diet meals.
The benefits of Jerusalem artichoke for men's health
This unique vegetable will be useful for men, as it is effective in preventing problems with the genitourinary system. Vitamins and all other useful substances in the composition of Jerusalem artichoke tubers help maintain potency and prevent the development of problems with the prostate.
Jerusalem artichoke recipes
The most useful thing that can be cooked from Jerusalem artichoke is salads, since it is raw fruits that carry the greatest benefit for good health.
Healing recipes
- Recipe number 1.
The easiest recipe for a salad with an earthen pear.
Rub peeled Jerusalem artichoke on a grater, add herbs and onions.
Salt to taste.
Season with butter, sour cream or mayonnaise.
Better of course unrefined oil cold pressed.
- Recipe number 2.
Jerusalem artichoke grated coarse grater.
Add sauerkraut.
Chop and add apples.
We take vegetables in the following proportion 2:2:1.
We mix everything, salt to taste, season with any vegetable oil. You can add greens.
- Recipe number 3.
Wash and clean Jerusalem artichoke and radish.
We grind both on a grater.
Add batun feathers or green onion, greenery.
Salt and season with sour cream.
From Jerusalem artichoke, you can cook many other dishes. But maximum benefit bring only raw root crops. The rich chemical composition determines the benefits and harms of Jerusalem artichoke. Culinary recipes from its fruits are very numerous.
Cooking recipes
The Jerusalem artichoke is fried like a potato, they make a side dish, stew stews, bake pancakes and meatballs, you can bake in the oven and even make candied fruit. Cooking recipes with this vegetable a great variety.
- Jerusalem artichoke cutlets.
To prepare delicious meatballs you will need:
- 400 gr tubers;
- 400 gr carrots;
- 50 gr semolina;
- 2 eggs;
- 100 ml cream;
- 70 gr breadcrumbs;
- Salt, vegetable oil.
Carrots and Jerusalem artichoke are thoroughly washed, peeled and three on a coarse grater. Put everything in a deep frying pan, add cream and salt to taste, mix.
Simmer the vegetables on the lowest heat until they are soft. Next, remove from heat and add semolina and eggs. We mix. We spread in a convenient dish, let stand for 15 minutes.
- Stewed Jerusalem artichoke.
For this dish we need:
- 500 gr of ground pear fruit;
- 3 cloves of garlic;
- a piece of hot pepper;
- vegetable broth (prepared in advance);
- parsley;
- olive oil.
Before cleaning Jerusalem artichoke, prepare a container with water, to which is added lemon juice. This is necessary because the peeled tubers darken quickly.
We wash and clean the fruits. We cut into thin circles. Grind the garlic and sauté in oil together with the pepper pieces. Then add Jerusalem artichoke. Fry without forgetting to stir. Adding vegetable broth(or plain water), close the lid and cook for 10 minutes. Then sprinkle with parsley and simmer for another 2 minutes. The dish is ready to eat.
Possible harm to an earthen pear
You may have already guessed what useful plant, as Jerusalem artichoke can not harm health. And there are no contraindications as such. However, it should not be eaten by people suffering from flatulence, as the ground pear will increase this condition. And individual intolerance is also possible.
Hippocrates once said, "Your food must be your medicine, and your medicine must be your food." Eat the right food and stay healthy.
» Varieties of pears
Some say that Jerusalem artichoke tastes like a pear, hence the name earthen pear, others say turnips. Taste differences are due to the fact that the root crop is a guest from distant Brazil, which appeared in Russia in the distant seventeenth century.
Our ancestors paid tribute to him useful qualities. Respectfully called - Volga turnip. Used in cooking and medicines. Today, alas, the root crop does not enjoy such respect.
Perennial, tuberous herbaceous plant of the sunflower genus. The aerial part is tall stems, heart-shaped leaves, yellow inflorescences, a basket similar to a sunflower. A powerful root system with shoots similar to strawberry shoots and cone-shaped tubers. The plant blooms from July to September, harvesting end of September, October.
Jerusalem artichoke grows all over the globe, has an unthinkable number of names. It is called Jerusalem artichoke and barabole, ground pear and bulba. In the tradition of many peoples, respect for the earthen pear is due to the knowledge of its amazing properties.
The root crop is very useful. Its inclusion in the diet is recommended not only healthy people. Its medicinal properties are known.
The tubers are used to produce sugar, alcohol is made from them, yeast is secreted.. The stems and leaves go to silage, the most valuable livestock feed, with high content vitamins.
The plant is used in forestry. For example, 2015-2016 became problematic for the forestries of the Tambov and Ryazan regions. To prevent wild animals, especially wild boars and moose, from going to other places, foresters planted Jerusalem artichoke. The quickly grown high-quality feed (tops, roots) “kept” the animals in their usual habitat.
The nutritional value of earthen pear tubers is much superior to that of potatoes. But the main difference is that instead of starch, it contains inulin, organic soluble sugar., which greatly increases the nutritional value of the root crop.
Useful and medicinal properties
Jerusalem artichoke is an unconditional masterpiece of nature, presented to man. Useful material its composition is necessary for the life of the human body.
The composition of the earthen pear is a clear illustration of the entire periodic table:
- calcium- coordinator of the work of cell membranes, blood clotting, regulator of nerve conduction, muscle work, cardiovascular system, responsible for the formation of bone, muscle, dental tissue;
- phosphorus- the main partner of calcium responsible for the growth and restoration of the body, a conductor of vital glucose, vitamins A, B, D;
- magnesium- optimizer of more than 300 processes of the reaction of enzymes in the body, responsible for immunity, blood clotting, the functioning of the nervous and muscular systems, metabolism;
- silicon- an assistant in the absorption of magnesium, calcium, regulates metabolic processes, helps the formation of many enzymes, hormones, amino acids, promotes the growth of bone and muscle tissue;
- sodium- responsible for water metabolism, the process of protein hydration, the deliverer of amino acids, glucose through cell membranes;
- potassium- maintains blood composition, activates enzymes, regulates protein and carbohydrate metabolism, is necessary for the excretory function of the kidneys, normal functioning of the intestines, nervous system, heart rate, responsible for blood pressure;
- iodine- necessary for energy metabolism, normalization of biochemical reactions, development of body growth with the help of thyroid hormones, affects brain function;
Also in the root zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, iron, cobalt and other trace elements. The composition of minerals is balanced. Eating a root crop for food, a person replenishes the body with these necessary elements in full.
Jerusalem artichoke - vitamin cocktail . A complete set of B vitamins, vitamins C, D, A, E. Their complex effect contributes to the rejuvenation of the body, increasing its resistance, endurance.
The root crop is valuable because it contains:
- fructose, classified as the sweetest organic saccharide, normalizes blood sugar levels, strengthens the immune system, prevents caries;
- inulin, a substance whose breakdown results in fructose and glucose, activates the body's defenses, removes radionuclides, heavy metals, reduces intoxication, prevents the formation of tumors, promotes weight loss;
- pectins, substances that absorb fats, lower cholesterol levels, are able to cleanse the body of toxins, radionuclides, are not absorbed by the body, are an enterosorbent;
- cellulose, a necessary substance for the smooth functioning of the intestines, lowering cholesterol, cleansing the body of carcinogens;
- protein, the building block of the body.
A unique set of organic acids in its composition:
- amber,
- apple,
- fumaric,
- malonic,
which optimize metabolic processes in the human body, increase resistance due to bactericidal and antioxidant properties, favor the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, normalize the production of bile, saliva, and pancreatic juice.
Root crops are considered a medicinal dietary food. Recommended for people with diabetes for their ability to regulate blood sugar. This is a medicine for diabetes, growing in the garden.
Medicine for elevated level cholesterol. Pectin prevents the formation of new plaques, removes triglycerides, eliminating the causes of cholelithiasis and atherosclerosis.
The plant is useful for the treatment of constipation, obesity, thrombophlebitis. Regular consumption of tubers can prevent cancer problems!
- salt deposits;
- diabetes;
- increased acidity;
- gout;
- psoriasis;
- osteochondrosis, arthrosis;
- injuries, burns;
- stomach ulcer, gastritis;
- insomnia, depressive disorders.
The list is impressive, but not complete. The main advantage in the series healing properties plants should be allocated prevention.
If you want to be healthy, vigorous, strive to live happily ever after - include Jerusalem artichoke in your diet, so that it replaces the use of potatoes by 2/3. Success guaranteed!
Contraindications of this plant
No, clear contraindications for use medicines from the root crop, not identified. There are also no restrictions on eating it. Only a sense of proportion is important. This gift of the gods will not interfere with any of us.
It is not known how infants react when breastfeeding if in the mother's diet appears miracle vegetable there are no statistics for pregnant women. Proved that everyone from 10 years old to extreme old age can and should use it.
Agrotechnics of Jerusalem artichoke
Agricultural technology is similar to the cultivation of potatoes. The plant is not whimsical, grows on almost any soil. He likes high-quality tillage, manure.
To save the tubers, planting should be done in April and October. Only the earth is able to maintain their integrity for a long time.
Tubers dug out of the ground are planted. Use whole and halves. Planted to a depth of 10 cm with a distance between tubers and rows of 50x50.
Planted in the fall before the cold so that the plant does not germinate. In spring sprouts appear after 20 days at a temperature of 3°C. During germination, it is necessary to loosen the aisles a couple of times in order to open air access to the soil.
To increase the yield, pinch the tops of the stems a month after germination or when the stem reaches a meter height. Weeding, watering in dry summers, hilling are traditional methods to increase yields.. However, this culture will feed even the loafer. It grows without care, giving a good harvest.
One plant can give birth to up to 150 tubers, from which other similar plants will then grow. So that the power of Jerusalem artichoke does not stifle everything that grows on the site, the root system needs to be blocked. Dig obstacles into the ground.
Tuberization begins in August. When it is necessary to free part of the plantation from an overgrown plant, the stems are mowed in early July, which leads to a natural attenuation of crop growth.
Ground pear treatment
The leaves, stems and roots of the plant have medicinal properties. Fresh Juice used to reduce acidity, treat the gastrointestinal tract. Juice drink a teaspoon before meals.
Skin diseases, burns, gout are treated with gruel from the leaves. Plantain compresses, gauze dressings with crushed leaves, can be taken without restrictions. Useful baths with a decoction of stems and leaves. Fill a bucket a third green mass Jerusalem artichoke, pour water at about 90 °, insist, strain, pour into a bath of water at a comfortable temperature. Baths help with atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, problems with the musculoskeletal system.
Daily consumption of a root vegetable in food makes a person noticeable among others. Smooth face, white healthy teeth, good hair, excellent skin turgor without wrinkles, signs of those who know a lot about this vegetable crop.
Cosmetic tricks for preparing plant-based beauty potions:
- mask, grind the peeled tuber, apply the resulting mass on the face, shoulders and décolleté with a thin layer, leave for half an hour, rinse warm water. Usually there is no feeling of dryness, if necessary, use a moisturizer based on herbal ingredients, such as chamomile;
- lotion, squeeze the juice of the leaves, dilute with spring water 1: 1, wipe in the morning and evening. After a few days it will become difficult to recognize your reflection in the mirror;
Proper nutrition is the foundation of health. Natural gifts cannot be replaced by man-made inventions. In order not to regret the lost health later, do not put off getting acquainted with the miracle - the root crop.
Jerusalem artichoke is still a rare plant in Russian gardens. Many vegetable growers are in no hurry to plant it, giving their preference to potatoes. But such an attitude towards this vegetable is undeserved, because it is very useful and even exhibits medicinal qualities. Learn about such a wonderful plant as Jerusalem artichoke, its benefits and harms to the body, as well as its medicinal properties.
Jerusalem artichoke is a tall perennial plant of the Asteraceae family, the closest relative of the sunflower. This is reflected even in its official name - tuberous sunflower. Indeed, outwardly Jerusalem artichoke resembles a sunflower, and its leaves have a similar aroma.
The homeland of the Jerusalem artichoke is North America, where it still grows wild, occupying vast areas south of the Great Lakes. The plant came to Europe at the beginning of the 17th century, in Russia it turned out in the same century and was first used not as a vegetable, but as medicinal plant. It was given the name "ground pear" because of the pear-shaped tubers.
Jerusalem artichoke is a highly attractive plant for vegetable growing. It is very unpretentious, able to grow in any soil, in any climatic conditions - both in the south and in the north of Russia. However, in regions of risky farming, it is grown for the sake of green mass, which goes to silage.
The cultivated Jerusalem artichoke plant, depending on the variety, has 1 or several tall (up to 4 m) and powerful stems branching in the upper part. They have many heart-shaped, elongated, rough leaves. Jerusalem artichoke flowers are small baskets with yellow petals, reminiscent of sunflowers, only much smaller in diameter. The plant blooms in August or September, but rarely forms fruits, since they do not have time to ripen before the onset of cold weather.
Jerusalem artichoke roots are powerful, branched, penetrating deep into the soil. Stolons grow from the underground part of the stem, on which tubers of various colors, sizes, and, accordingly, masses are formed - from 10 to 150-200 g. They are dense and juicy, but covered with a thin and fragile skin, therefore, extracted from the soil, they do not stored - after a month of storage, they begin to either dry or rot. This is precisely the main drawback of the earthen pear, so the tubers are dug up only in autumn and early spring, as soon as the snow melts. There is no point in harvesting later, because the tubers begin to germinate and become fibrous.
Nutritional value and calories
To taste, raw pear tubers are similar to a turnip or cabbage stalk, but they have a characteristic taste and smell. IN chemical composition Jerusalem artichoke are present:
- proteins - 2 g;
- carbohydrates - 17.4 g (including inulin);
- fats - 0.1 g;
- water - 78 g;
- organic acids - 0.1 g;
- fiber - 1.6 g.
Vitamins are presented:
- retinol (A) and carotene (1 μg and 0.012 mg);
- thiamine (B1) and riboflavin (B2) (2 mg and 0.06 mg);
- choline (B4) and pantothenic acid (B5) (30 mg and 0.4 mg);
- pyridoxine (B6) and folates (B9) (0.08 mg and 13 mcg);
- ascorbic acid (C) and tocopherol (E) (4 mg and 0.2 mg);
- nicotinic acid (PP) and phylloquinone (K) (1.3 mg and 0.1 µg).
There are also macro- and microelements in Jerusalem artichoke. These are potassium and phosphorus (429 mg and 78 mg), magnesium and calcium (17 mg and 14 mg), sodium, iron (4 mg and 3.4 mg), zinc and manganese (0.12 mg and 0.06 mg) , copper and selenium (140 and 0.7 mcg).
The nutritional value of the vegetable lies in easily digestible proteins and carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, Jerusalem artichoke fiber, which, when it enters the intestines, improves its work. The calorie content of an earthen pear, like all vegetables, is low - only 73 kcal. Therefore, even overweight people are allowed to eat its tubers, not to mention those who have normal weight.
What is useful Jerusalem artichoke for the body
Jerusalem artichoke is known for its ability to improve the condition of patients with many diseases. It is also valuable for the polysaccharide inulin, which regulates metabolism and is beneficial for intestinal health. But the benefits of Jerusalem artichoke are not limited to this. It can be used by both completely healthy people and those who are sick, but want to improve their health.
For men
The benefits of Jerusalem artichoke tubers for the male half of humanity are obvious. Zinc, which is part of this vegetable, plays an important role in maintaining health. genitourinary system. It takes part in the production of spermatozoa, increasing their activity and vitality, increases potency, and prevents diseases of the prostate gland.
Potassium, which is abundant in Jerusalem artichoke, regulates water, acid and electrolyte balance, normalizes pressure and conduction of nerve impulses, improves heart function, and normalizes its rhythm. Therefore, an earthen pear is useful for men with hypertension, tachycardia, vascular atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease. For introduction into the body daily allowance macronutrient potassium is enough to eat 300 g of tubers per day.
Thiamine is part of the enzymes of energy and carbohydrate metabolism, so the use of Jerusalem artichoke will be useful for those men who live actively, work physically, go in for sports. Deficiency of vitamin B1 leads to disturbances in the functioning of the nervous tissue, heart and blood vessels, and the digestive tract. Jerusalem artichoke tubers will also be useful for those who are engaged in mental work, as they stimulate mental activity.
For women
Root crops of an earth pear will be useful also to women. Their regular use in food will help ladies avoid oncological diseases, primarily tumors of the breast and uterus, problems with the genitourinary organs, and obesity. Iron, which is part of the tubers and leaves of Jerusalem artichoke, prevents anemia, muscle atony, myocardiopathy, increased fatigue, ensures the normal course of recovery and oxidation reactions in the body.
The beneficial properties of Jerusalem artichoke can be added to improve vision, maintain teeth, skin, nails and hair in excellent condition, increase mental stability in stressful situations, normalize mood, treat endocrine and skin diseases.
The vegetable will be useful for women suffering from hypertension, vegetovascular dystonia with tachycardia, and other pathologies of the heart and blood vessels. It will help to avoid or eliminate swelling in diseases of the kidneys and heart, salt deposits, can improve the condition of gout, rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune and metabolic diseases. Tuber gruel is used to make masks that rejuvenate and brighten the skin of the face and body, and from the roots - for treatment acne, eczema, vitiligo.
For children
Jerusalem artichoke tubers are also useful for children, especially in autumn and winter as good source vitamins. They are rich in complete protein, which is necessary for the growing body of children as a building material for tissue and organ cells. Children and adolescents who eat ground pear are less likely to get colds, they have a good appetite, and at the same time there are no problems with digestion.
In children who suffer from gastritis and colitis, Jerusalem artichoke relieves inflammation of the gastric mucosa, promotes the speedy healing and restoration of the mucosa, normalizes the acidity of its juice, eliminates heartburn and flatulence. With dysbacteriosis, the vegetable inhibits the growth of pathological intestinal microflora, promotes the reproduction of beneficial ones, enhances intestinal peristalsis, eliminating constipation, and prevents toxins from accumulating on their walls. With low hemoglobin, dishes from it will help restore the level of this important protein and prevent the development of anemia. Jerusalem artichoke is believed not to accumulate nitrates, pesticides and other harmful agrochemicals, so even the smallest children can eat it.
Jerusalem artichoke for weight loss
Ground pear - low-calorie product, so it is very useful for weight loss. If you eat fresh or heat-treated tubers as often as possible, then you can hope that the weight will return to normal. And to lose weight at any time of the year, and not just in spring and autumn, when fresh tubers are available, you can use dried Jerusalem artichoke, the effect of which is no worse.Is it possible to eat during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Jerusalem artichoke has no contraindications for use during childbearing and breastfeeding. Expectant mothers can use it in any quantity, fresh or processed. During pregnancy, an earthen pear will be useful as a vitamin product and a mild natural laxative. Jerusalem artichoke has properties to stimulate immune system, increases resistance to infections and diseases. Beneficial effect on the body of mother and child.
Also Jerusalem artichoke:
- improves bowel function and restores its microflora;
- reduces the feeling of hunger;
- eliminates heartburn;
- increases hemoglobin in the blood;
- normalizes metabolic processes.
Medicines from Jerusalem artichoke, in the absence of contraindications, can be used at any stage of pregnancy, however, only after consulting a doctor. It will help you choose the optimal dosage of drugs.
Medicinal properties of Jerusalem artichoke and instructions for its use
The ground pear is well known in medicine. Thanks to her unique medicinal properties Jerusalem artichoke is successfully used in the treatment of a number of diseases and for preventive purposes. Preparations based on it are prepared not only from tubers, but also from leaves and inflorescences of plants. Fresh or dried raw materials are taken as starting material. When properly harvested, it does not lose its value.
Jerusalem artichoke is useful for people with any type of diabetes due to the inulin and fiber it contains. In the insulin-dependent form of the disease, the polysaccharide performs the substitution functions of glucose, thus reducing blood sugar, but at the same time fully provides the cells with the energy they need. It stimulates the synthesis of the pancreas more hormone, helps to remove toxic substances from the body. Inulin is found in high concentration in Jerusalem artichoke powder, which is produced by the industry.
Long-term use of Jerusalem artichoke also prevents the development of such complications of diabetes as damage to the lower extremities, blindness, and nephropathy. In case of type 2 disease, Jerusalem artichoke has a restorative, stabilizing and regulating effect. He:
- normalizes metabolic processes;
- normalizes weight;
- puts in order the hormonal background;
- supports the liver, pancreas;
- improves the work of the digestive tract;
- improves well-being and improves tone.
It has also been established that Jerusalem artichoke preparations can significantly reduce insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes.
To normalize blood sugar levels:
- eat 1 root crop or drink 0.5 cups of Jerusalem artichoke juice 0.5 hours before meals 3 times a day;
- prepare an infusion of 1 liter of boiling water and 4 tbsp. l. cut into small pieces tubers, insist 3 hours, use as a substitute for tea, do not add sugar.
In diabetes, you can use not only fresh tubers, but also Jerusalem artichoke syrup. It is a vegetable juice concentrated by evaporation, which shows the properties of an excellent sweetener. It does not contain artificial sucrose, but it has a sweet taste, so it can be added to drinks and desserts instead of sugar. For the treatment and prevention of morbidity, syrup can be drunk 1 tbsp. l. 0.5 hour before meals.
For the same purpose, you can use Jerusalem artichoke tea. Preparing it is very simple - you need to take:
- 1.5 st. l. crushed to the state of gruel tubers, put them in a thermos and pour 0.3 liters of boiling water on top. Use 3 times a day for 0.5 hours before meals, 0.1 l.;
- 1 tsp ground pear powder, pour a glass of boiling water. Drink tea 2 times a day.
- 1 st. l. dry leaves pour 0.5 tbsp. water brought to a boil. Drink 3 times a day for 0.1 liters.
Jerusalem artichoke tea is a good adjuvant in the treatment of anemia, atherosclerosis, nervous diseases, salt deposits, and urolithiasis.
Harm and contraindications
Ground pear is a useful plant. In most cases, it can be eaten without harm to the body and strict dosing. Fresh root crops can increase the phenomena of gas formation in people prone to flatulence. But Jerusalem artichoke after heat treatment no longer possesses these properties. If you use a boiled product or add spices such as cumin and coriander to dishes, there will be no problems.
Contraindications to the use of Jerusalem artichoke and medicines from it are:
- individual intolerance to the product;
- hypotension.
For preventive and health purposes, it is enough to consume 50-100 g of raw Jerusalem artichoke tubers for a month 3 times a day before meals.
The ground pear is valuable not only for its tasty and healthy tubers: its aerial part also has medicinal properties.
No less interesting are the beneficial properties and contraindications of Jerusalem artichoke leaves and its bright flowers, reminiscent of sunflower flowers. We will find out what are the benefits of the aerial part of the earthen pear for the health of the body, how it is used in medicinal purposes and helps to lose weight.
Beautiful yellow flowers, reminiscent of small sunflowers, have a number of useful properties. Namely:
- They purify the blood and speed up blood circulation.
- They help to remove toxins in case of poisoning, alcohol abuse and junk food.
- Treat headaches.
- Cope with spasms in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Normalize the pressure, if it is increased.
- Relieve heartburn.
- Help the body cope with inflammation.
How to apply
To use the flowers for medicinal purposes, we make an infusion from them by brewing 2 tbsp. raw materials 0.5 l of boiling water, insisting for 20 minutes and filtering it.
To get rid of the above ailments, we drink 120 ml of infusion once a day.
What are the benefits of Jerusalem artichoke leaves
No less useful are the stems and leaves of Jerusalem artichoke, especially those that are plucked before the plant begins to bloom.
- Accelerate wound healing. Juice and decoctions of Jerusalem artichoke stems and leaves contribute to the rapid restoration of damaged tissues, which means they heal wounds of various origins, eczema and even stomach ulcers.
- Rejuvenate the skin. The active substances included in the aerial parts accelerate the renewal of skin cells, rejuvenating it.
And if you regularly take baths with a decoction of the leaves and young stems of Jerusalem artichoke, you can rid the body of excess salts, bursitis, osteochondrosis, arthritis and atherosclerosis of the vessels of the legs.
The use of Jerusalem artichoke leaves for medicinal purposes
We will learn how infusions and decoctions of earthen pear leaves are used from detailed recipes.
For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, colds and anemia
An infusion of Jerusalem artichoke greens will help, which is prepared as follows:
- Pour a tablespoon of chopped raw materials with 750 ml of boiling water.
- We cover and insist the grass for 10 hours.
We filter the infusion of Jerusalem artichoke and take it three times a day for a quarter of an hour before meals for half a cup.
To cleanse the liver, remove toxins and eliminate flatulence
For this we are preparing alcohol tincture ground pear according to the following recipe:
- Pour 0.5 kg of dried raw materials with a liter of vodka or alcohol.
- We remove the container in a dark place away from heat for half a month.
When the tincture is ready, take a tablespoon three times a day, diluting it with water (150 ml).
With radiculitis and osteochondrosis
We prepare an infusion to make compresses on sore spots:
- Pour 2 tablespoons of raw materials 1 tbsp. water.
- Bring to a boil and remove from stove.
Slightly cool the infusion, moisten gauze in it, apply it to the sore spot and wait 20 minutes.
For healing wounds of various origins, treating joints, accelerating recovery from fractures and skin diseases.
We prepare an infusion to take healing baths:
- Pour 15 leaves of ground pear with three liters of boiling water.
- We wait 30 minutes, filter and pour into the bath.
We take a bath for 15 minutes. We repeat the procedure daily for a week.
To cure radiculitis, gout, osteochondrosis, with chronic fatigue and weakened immunity.
To alleviate the condition during exacerbations of diseases and gain strength, we take a bath with a decoction of Jerusalem artichoke:
- Pour 100 g of dry leaf with 3.5 liters of water, bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes over low heat.
- Remove from stove and wait for it to cool down.
- Filter the broth and pour into the bath.
We take a bath for 15 minutes. twice a week. In total, you need to take 10 healing baths.
With gastritis
To cure recently acquired or chronic gastritis, we prepare an infusion of Jerusalem artichoke leaves:
- We mix equally the dried leaf of the earthen pear and plantain.
- Pour 3 teaspoons of raw materials into 1 cup of boiling water, close and wrap.
- We wait 7 hours, filter and put a spoonful of honey.
We take a decoction with honey three times a day for a third of a glass half an hour before meals.
To cleanse and improve joint mobility
- Grind 100 g of pure burdock roots.
- We put the roots together with 100 g of earthen pear greens in a saucepan.
- Pour raw materials with 3 liters of water, bring to a boil and cook for a couple of minutes.
- Remove from the stove, insist for half an hour and filter.
We drink a glass of infusion, adding a spoonful of honey, three times a day for half an hour before meals. We are treated with this infusion for 30 days.
Jerusalem artichoke leaves: contraindications
Since neither heavy metal salts, nor radioactive or nitrate components accumulate in all parts of the earthen pear, you can drink Jerusalem artichoke tea without fear for your health.
It is safe even for allergy sufferers!
In addition to infusions and decoctions, Jerusalem artichoke tea is used to improve the body, which can be brewed not only from leaves, but also from flowers.
The aerial part of the plant contains various minerals, vegetable protein, essential amino acids, carbohydrates, pectin and vitamins C, A and B.
Useful properties of tea from the leaves of an earthen pear
Thanks to a rich set of vitamins, minerals and other components, Jerusalem artichoke tea has the following beneficial properties:
- Improves brain function. Jerusalem artichoke components help to concentrate better and cope with mental strain.
If you regularly drink this tea, you can not only improve memory, but also return it after amnesia.
- Helps to lose weight. Tea from Jerusalem artichoke for weight loss is a great opportunity to become lighter by a few kilograms. This plant accelerates metabolism and fat burning, has a beneficial effect on the kidneys, intestines, gallbladder and liver.
With Jerusalem artichoke, they better cope with the function of removing toxins and other harmful substances, the disappearance of edema and the processing of fat deposits.
- Relieves constipation. Containing a lot of fiber and polysaccharides, ground pear improves the functioning of the intestines and contributes to the timely release of feces without flatulence and constipation.
- Helps with diabetes. By lowering blood sugar with the help of inulin, Jerusalem artichoke is successfully used in the complex treatment of diabetes and getting rid of bad cholesterol.
In addition, Jerusalem artichoke leaf tea cleanses the blood of toxins well.
Jerusalem artichoke leaf tea: preparation method
To prepare a healing tea from the leaves of an earthen pear, we do the following:
- We fall asleep in a thermos one and a half tablespoons of dried Jerusalem artichoke leaf.
- Pour raw materials with 0.5 liters of boiling water.
We wait 3 hours and drink 100 g of tea three times a day 20 minutes before meals.
Now you know what are the beneficial properties and contraindications of Jerusalem artichoke leaves. Try their action on yourself to get rid of health problems and restore excellent health!
