Humans have been cultivating plants for centuries, but there are some rare plants out there that are high in micronutrients. These are plants that are hard to find but are worth the effort for the nutrition they provide. Here are 13 of these rare plants that are high in micronutrients:
1. Indian Kino Tree (Pterocarpus Marsupium)
This tropical tree native to India is an excellent source of multiple micronutrients. It includes iron, calcium, manganese, and zinc. It has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat an array of health conditions. Among them are diabetes, hypertension, and joint pain. Its leaves are used to make a decoction that can be drunk as tea to improve overall health.
2. Jiaogulan (Gynostemma Pentaphyllum)
This perennial vine comes from China. It is known for its high antioxidant content, which makes it a great source of micronutrients. It contains compounds like saponins, polysaccharides, and polyphenols. They not only provide a boost of energy but also help to diminish inflammation and protect against illnesses. Traditional Chinese medicine is used to treat fatigue, anxiety, and insomnia.
3. Amaranth (Amaranthus)
This leafy green vegetable is native to the Americas and is packed with micronutrients, including lutein, beta-carotene, magnesium, and potassium. It is a great source of protein, making it a great choice for vegetarians and vegans alike. Amaranth has also been used in ancestral medicine to combat ailments such as fever and stomach pain.
4. Moringa (Moringa Oleifera)
This tropical tree, native to India, is an excellent source of multiple micronutrients. It contains high levels of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, making it a great choice for vegetarians and vegans alike. It has also been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, from fever and skin conditions to digestive issues.
5. Acai Berries (Euterpe Oleracea)
These dark purple berries, native to South America, contain plenty of antioxidants and micronutrients. We can find iron, calcium, and magnesium in it. For some ethnic groups, they are used to treat obesity and diabetes.
6. Spirulina (Arthrospira Platensis)
This blue-green alga is native to warm, alkaline bodies of water. It is an excellent source of iron, calcium, and magnesium. It has antioxidants, which are very effective against inflammation. If you have hypertension, fatigue, skin conditions, or digestive issues, think about spirulina supplements.
7. Nettle (Urtica Dioica)
This perennial herb is native to Europe. Nettle is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and E. It also contains tons of antioxidants. Your digestion makes you suffer? Nettle might help. If you have urinary tract infections, think first about this natural way before jumping on drugs.
8. Chlorella (Chlorella Vulgaris)
This single-celled alga is native to freshwater bodies. You can find iron, calcium, and magnesium in it. Like many rare plants, it contains antioxidants.
9. Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale)
This perennial herb is native to parts of Europe and contains iron, calcium, and magnesium. It is not only a beautiful plant sprouting in the fields. It has antioxidants, which are great against inflammation. It combats fever and skin conditions, digestive issues, and urinary tract infections. Get lucky with Avalon78.
10. Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa)
This perennial herb is native to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Americas. It is an excellent source of micronutrients and antioxidants. It’s great to combat hypertension, fatigue, digestive issues, and joint pain.
11. Maca (Lepidium Meyenii)
This root vegetable comes straight from the Andes Mountains in Peru. It is an excellent source of multiple micronutrients, including iron, calcium, and magnesium. It is used by locals to treat fatigue, stress, digestive issues, and infertility.
12. Schisandra (Schisandra Chinensis)
This small red berry from Asia is excellent for hypertension and fatigue, digestive issues, and liver disorders.
13. Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)
This herb, native to India, is well-known for its ability to boost energy levels and increase mental alertness. Traditional medicine is used to treat a wide range of conditions, from fatigue and stress to digestive issues and even cancer.
