Asparagus efficacy has been used for centuries as a medicinal vegetable. Asparagus contains many phytochemical compounds, including asparagine and folic acid, that act as antioxidants in the body and have anti-inflammatory properties. It is also high in dietary fiber and potassium. It is known for its diuretic effects, and it helps to decrease bloating in the digestive tract. It is used in several ancient medicinal systems of medicine, including Siddha and Ayurveda.
Asparagus is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and a range of B vitamins. It is also a good source of minerals, especially potassium, calcium, magnesium and copper. Asparagus is low in calories, has no cholesterol and is a source of dietary fiber. It has been shown to improve the function of the liver and kidneys, as well as provide natural diuretic action.
In 2018, a study in mice showed that asparagus extract enhanced the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic agents in killing cancer cells, but did not harm normal healthy cells. Further research is needed to confirm these results in humans.
Another potential benefit of asparagus is that it has been shown to lower blood pressure, by increasing urination and helping the body to eliminate excess salts. This is particularly important for people with heart health concerns, like high blood pressure and heart-related edema (abnormal fluid retention).
Asparagus is also a natural diuretic, and can help reduce bloating by increasing urine production. In addition, it may improve gout symptoms by decreasing the amount of uric acid in the body. However, excessive consumption of asparagus may lead to dehydration and weight loss.
In addition to its diuretic effects, asparagus has been shown to be high in anti-inflammatory compounds, and may prevent and treat the damage caused by aging and chronic inflammation. It has also been shown to increase the levels of glutathione in the body, a potent antioxidant that may protect against certain types of cancers, as well as speed up wound healing and repair damaged tissues.
Some common side effects of asparagus include a strange smell to the urine, which is a result of asparagine, a chemical that breaks down into sulfur compounds. In most cases, the odor is not a cause for concern, but it can be uncomfortable for some people. However, it has been found that some people have a genetic variant that prevents their urine from smelling after eating asparagus.
Asparagus is considered safe in food amounts, but it is not known if it is safe when taken in supplement form or in large medicinal quantities. It is rated “likely effective” for treating high blood pressure, edema and gout by the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, but more research is needed. It is considered “possibly effective” for treating anemia and preventing or easing the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Insufficient evidence supports use for any other conditions. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements. They can help you find the right dosage and avoid possible interactions with medications or other supplements that you are taking.