With the scientific name of Amaranthus viridis , the Caruru is part of the Amarantáceas family and is widespread in Brazil. You can be in the North, South, East or West region, you will easily see a branch of Caruru. Due to its easiness to adapt, the plant is known as an “invasive” of other plantations, being seen by many as a mere “bush” or “pest”. Bahia is, certainly, the place where it is more widespread, and there it is part of the culture of many people – especially the humblest ones – to consume Caruru among their cuisines or, mainly, as tea. Its popularity is due to its benefits and medicinal properties that it exerts on the body, curing, treating and preventing diseases.
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Benefits of pigweed
Rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, C, iron, calcium and potassium, its consumption is very suitable for strengthening teeth and bones, infections of broad aspects (throat, urine, among many others), dropsy and liver problems .
“Bredo” as it is affectionately called in Bahia, Caruru is known for relieving the liver and strengthening it. Its consumption is commonly suggested for people who, at some point in their lives, had problems with excessive drinking and are now dealing with a fragile liver as a sequel.
As it is a powerful cleanser, Caruru is used for urinary tract diseases, especially urine infections, as it “cleans” the place where the urine must pass, eliminating toxins, fungi and bacteria, in addition to alleviating the likely pain that these evils caused .
How to use?
It is interesting to know that all parts of the Caruru plant are edible and harmless, even its seeds. So, to consume, bring to fire a liter of water, together with 100 grams of the plant. Simmer for 10 minutes, then turn off and smother the container. Five minutes later, strain, sweeten if necessary – no exaggeration – and drink twice a day, especially before main meals, if possible.
No records of reports with side effects or even contraindications were found.
