Natural Antibiotic - Usnea

Nasturtium (lat. Tropaeolum) is the only genus in the nasturtium family (lat. Tropaeolaceae) of plants. Nasturtium is grown as an annual in our conditions, as overwintering would be very difficult due to its trailing growth habit. Nasturtium originates from northern tropical regions in South America. Over time, it spread to Europe, Australia, the rest of America, Africa and Asia. In favorable conditions, nasturtium naturalized very quickly and began to multiply without human intervention, which is why its distribution area is so extensive. Now you can grow nasturtium in your own garden too.

Nasturtium

Nasturtiums are mostly trailing plants, their stems can grow up to 5 m in length. Nasturtiums attach themselves to surrounding vegetation and supports using leaf petioles up to 20 cm long. The leaves grow alternately and are simple in shape. Nasturtium flowers are hermaphroditic and symmetrical. The flowers grow individually on long stalks. They can be single or double. The flowers are most commonly composed of five petals, which are most often yellow, orange, red and purple in colour. From pollinated flowers, a three-parted capsule containing seeds develops.

Nasturtium varieties

Various nasturtium varieties are available on the market. One of them is dwarf nasturtium (lat. Tropaeolum nanum) with mahogany red flowers. It is a fast-growing annual that is suitable for bedding displays, but can also be planted in window boxes. For its growth, it requires a sunny location and permeable, poorer soil. Another beautiful cultivar of dwarf nasturtium is Empress of India with red flowers. Garden nasturtium (lat. Tropaeolum majus) with single flowers also likes a sunny location. This nasturtium is very often grown in gardens as an ornamental plant. In addition, it is also edible and medicinal. Its leaves and flowers can be added to salads, and the buds can be pickled like capers. Many gardeners like to plant nasturtium in their beds because it repels aphids. Garden nasturtium is available as a dwarf or as a climbing plant. A delicacy in the range is climbing garden nasturtium with double flowers in various colours.

Growing Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums thrive best in a sunny and warm location. However, they can tolerate partial shade. Sow seeds in early May directly outdoors, or you can pre-grow young plants. When pre-growing, be careful not to let the young plants freeze, as nasturtiums are very sensitive to frost. Sowing seeds indoors is done in February, and young nasturtiums are transplanted outdoors after the last ground frosts have passed at the end of May. Ideally, plant nasturtiums in well-draining, sandy-loam soil with lower nitrogen content. Nasturtiums don't require any special fertilization; they manage with the nutrients present in the soil. Adjust watering of nasturtiums according to the specific needs of the plant and its location. Plants placed in full sun and in containers will need more water than plants grown in garden beds. Always allow the substrate to dry out slightly before watering again. Too much water can harm nasturtiums, making them more susceptible to diseases, causing root rot, and poor flowering. Plant nasturtiums in a location protected from strong winds to prevent damage to their climbing stems.

Medicinal Benefits of Nasturtium

The medicinal properties of nasturtiums are not widely known, which is a shame because they are remarkable. Nasturtium is a powerful natural antibiotic that works against all bacteria from the Staphylococcus strain, which often cause inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract and kidneys. Nasturtium can also combat salmonella and streptococci. As prevention or to shorten treatment and aid recovery, nasturtium can be used for respiratory tract infections. The beneficial effects of nasturtium have also been proven for excessive hair loss and dandruff problems. Fresh juice from the leaves has a disinfectant effect. Chopped nasturtiums added to a bath can help regulate the menstrual cycle. Nasturtium is also made into tincture drops.

First an Ornament, Then Eat Your Nasturtium

Almost the entire nasturtium plant is edible. You can consume the leaves, flowers, and seeds fresh. Leaves and flowers are most commonly added to salads. They provide a distinctive peppery flavor reminiscent of watercress. Nasturtium seeds can be consumed directly after harvesting without any special preparation. They can be added to salads and spreads. Nasturtiums can be dried for later use as tea or soaked in alcohol to prepare a tincture. Preparing nasturtium infusion is very simple. Just pour hot water over a heaping teaspoon of dried or two teaspoons of fresh nasturtium leaves and let steep for about 10 minutes. After straining, the infusion is ready to drink.

Something to Eat

Cottage cheese spread with pennycress is a great tip for a quick and healthy breakfast or dinner. Mix chopped pennycress leaves into lightly salted cottage cheese or cream cheese. Spread the mixture on bread and garnish with pennycress flowers.