The nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a beautiful and widespread garden plant. Originally from Peru and neighboring areas, it was introduced to Europe as an ornamental plant as early as the 17th century. It is an annual, perennial, vine or climbing plant, very branched, with orbicular leaves, and orange or yellow flowers.

Nasturtium is found as a dried plant for infusion, tincture, fluid extract and in the form of lotion or shampoo.

Properties of nasturtium

Nasturtium contains an essential oil with benzyl-isothiocyanate, flavonoids, mineral salts, ascorbic acid in the leaves, helenin in the flowers, proportions of vitamin C and oxalic acid.

Of the essential oil, its antibiotic, balsamic and decongestant properties. It has been indicated as a cure for bronchitis, flu processes and in general for respiratory tract conditions, as well as valid support in case of pulmonary emphysema. Facilitates the expulsion of mucus and eliminates nasal congestion and pulmonary.

Due to the combination of its effects antibiotic, diuretic and purifyinghas also been indicated to stop the urinary tract infectionand for stimulate the emission of urine in case of edema, overweight fluid retention, drop, hypertension and high levels of uric acid and urea.

Other medicinal uses of nasturtium

The juice of the fresh plant is used for its vitamin and remineralizing virtuesfor weak people and in episodes of convalescence. It is recommended 20 to 40 g per day, on an empty stomach.

But, without a doubt, the most frequent use made of it is as an excellent remedy to stimulate the scalp and prevent hair loss.

The tender leaves are taken in saladand the entire plant works fine as insecticide. There are those who spray nasturtium infusion on places with fleas or flies, and even on some animals.

Home remedies with nasturtium

To stop hair loss, Experts recommend the lotion that is made with nasturtium, cinchona bark, botanical tops and nettle, in quantities of 15 g per plant. To prepare this nasturtium hair lotion:

1. Boil it in a liter of water for 10 minutes and let it rest.
2. After filtering, it is found that the liquid has been reduced by about 3/4, so cologne water is added until the liter is complete.
3. It is kept in a translucent glass bottle and applied with gentle friction, from the roots outwards, every day, before going to bed.
4. If these plants are not available, the fluid extract of nasturtium alone works, which is applied in the same way.

To decongest the airways, A herbal tea made from nasturtium is effective. To prepare a nasturtium infusion to breathe better:

1. You need 25 g of fresh nasturtium flowers per liter of water.
2. Boil them for one minute and let them rest, always covered, for about 10 more minutes.
3. A couple of tablespoons of thyme honey are added to the infusion to sweeten.
4. It is advisable to take half a cup of this herbal tea at night and the other half in the morning, when you wake up.

Precautions and contraindications

Nasturtium taken internally should be avoided in case of gastritis, heart or kidney failure, as well as during pregnancy and lactation. The seeds are potentially toxic, very laxative, so it is recommended to avoid direct ingestion.

Jordi Cebrián. Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist from “El Manantial de Salud”