Scorzonera: what is it and which are its beneficial properties

Scorzonera is a plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family, the same as artichokes and Jerusalem artichokes. It is a plant with numerous species: the best known is the Scorzonera hispanica, native to southern Europe, also known as Scorzonera horticola or "winter asparagus", as it is harvested from October and throughout the winter season. The plant is composed of large green leaves and yellow flowers, which resemble daisies.

The edible part of the plant, however, is its roots, similar to a carrot, but dark in color: they are in fact covered by a blackish skin that must be eliminated before consuming them. It is a low calorie food but it brings many nutrients to our body, as well as being rich in therapeutic properties: it has a diuretic action, it has anti-inflammatory properties, it promotes proper blood circulation, also fighting cellulite and swelling, and it has a low glycemic index. Let's find out more about the beneficial properties of this root and how to consume it in the kitchen for the preparation of our recipes.

Beneficial and therapeutic properties of scorzonera

Scorzonera is a root rich in vitamins, in particular vitamin A, vitamins of group B, vitamin C and E, as well as containing important mineral salts such as iron, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and zinc. Thanks to the presence of inulin, the scorzonera is a food suitable for people suffering from diabetes and for those who are subject to weight gain, and it also has a low glycemic index, therefore avoiding high blood sugar levels. The scorzonera also has a natural diuretic action, thanks to the high presence of potassium and the low presence of sodium, helping to prevent urinary tract problems and problems associated with swelling of the legs.

Thanks to the iron and copper content, scorzonera also promotes the improvement of circulation, helping also in the case of cellulite and improving the supply of oxygen to the tissues, even to the follicles: therefore it brings benefits even in the case of hair loss. Potassium also helps to keep blood pressure under control, reducing the load on the cardiovascular system. Scorzonera also promotes intestinal transit, thanks to the good content of dietary fiber: it therefore prevents constipation, also improving digestion. The content of vitamin C and E gives this root antioxidant properties, counteracting the action of free radicals and therefore premature aging.

Thanks to minerals such as calcium and magnesium and vitamin C, scorzonera is also beneficial for the correct development of bones and for the prevention of osteoporosis and arthritis. This precious root, thanks to the contribution of vitamins and trace elements, is also considered an energy food, ideal for athletes, elderly people and people in convalescence.