9 Benefits of Arugula - EcoWatch (2024)

Arugula’s aromatic, peppery flavor adds a wonderful dimension to a salad, to your health and maybe evenyour sex life.

9 Benefits of Arugula - EcoWatch (1) Arugula has been used as an aphrodisiac since the first century. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Arugula is also known by other names such as salad rocket, garden rocket, roquette, rucola, rugula or colewort. The scientific name of arugula is Eruca sativa.

“Arugula is an elixir that gives flavor to life.”

—Dennis Lybeer

9 Arugula Health Benefits

1. Cancer Fighting Powerfood

Arugula is one of the brassica family vegetables along with broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage. These vegetables are high in fiber and antioxidants, and also rich in glucosinolates, which studies show may reduce the risk of developing lung, prostate, breast and pancreatic cancer.

2. Rich in Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll can help to prevent liver and DNA damage from aflatoxins. To get the most chlorophyll in arugula, it is best to eat it raw.

3. Hydrating Leafy Green

Arugula is composed of 90 percent water. That’s why it’s a perfect hydrating and cooling food in the summer.

4. Good for Bone Health

Vitamin K is needed for bone health; it is needed for the absorption of calcium into the bones and teeth. Half cup of arugula contains 10.9 micrograms of vitamin K. Three cups of arugula daily will supply you with 100 percent of your bodies need of vitamin K. It also contains eight times more calcium than iceberg lettuce.

5. Helps Reduce Inflammation in the Body

It contains indole-3-carbinol and isothiocyanates, which have been shown to suppress the production of inflammation in the body.

6. Cleanses and Detoxifies the Body

The fiber content helps clean out the colon promoting healthy bowel movements. The phytochemicals, antioxidants and essential minerals found in arugula help cleanse out toxins in the body.

7. Protects the Aging Brain From Cognitive Decline

Arugula is high in most B vitamins but contains especially high amounts of folate. In high-functioning older adults, low levels of folate have been shown to be a risk factor for cognitive decline.

8. Weight Loss

Arugula in your diet can benefit you with so many nutrients. The extra benefit is that two cups contain only 80 calories, making it a good choice for those on a diet.

9. Aphrodisiac

Arugula has used as an aphrodisiac since the first century. Research has shown us that the trace minerals and antioxidants in dark, leafy greens are essential for our sexual health. They help block environmental contaminants which are thought to be negative to our libido.

A study, published March 2013 in the journal of Al-Nahrain University, found that arugula leaf extracts boosted testosterone levels and sperm activity in mice. The results suggest that the phytochemicals and/or nutrients in arugula may have aphrodisiac properties.

“The rocket excites the sexual desire of drowsy people.”

—From a poem by Virgil, one of Rome’s greatest poets

Trivia:

  • Arugula was used as a potent aphrodisiac during the ancient civilization of Rome.

  • Love potions were made using arugula and other herbs like lavender in ancient times.

  • Arugula seeds are pressed to make Taramira oil, used in pickling, cooking and salad dressing in northern India.

  • Ancient Romans ate it for good luck.

Tips for Eating or Cooking:

  • This green is popular in Italian cuisine.

  • Eating arugula raw will likely provide your body with more of the healthy isothiocyanates than eating cooked arugula. However, by eating lightly cooked arugula, your body will absorb more of certain nutrients and carotenoids than when it is raw.

9 Benefits of Arugula - EcoWatch (2) Arugula is high in most B vitamins but contains especially high amounts of folate. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Please Note: Arugula is relatively lower in oxalate content than spinach, purslane, mustard greens, celery, etc. The greens can be safely used during pregnancy and lactation.

Click Here for Pointers on How to Grow and Store Urugula (and Some Fascinating History)

My Favorite Arugula Recipes:

Arugula Pesto: This tasty recipe achieves a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Quinoa Arugula Salad: Full of protein from the quinoa and pumpkin seeds, this can be a meal all by itself.

9 Benefits of Arugula - EcoWatch (2024)

FAQs

Is eating arugula everyday good for you? ›

Arugula is rich in nutrients like potassium, folate, and vitamins A and C. These help with various functions in the body, such as nerve and heart function, while supporting a healthy immune system. Regularly eating arugula can help you reach your recommended potassium intake of 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams.

Does arugula cleanse the liver? ›

Arugula is a less common cruciferous vegetable that provides the same benefits as the other vegetables in the same family. When it comes to cleansing the liver, arugula is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. It is also rich in chlorophyll, a powerful detoxifying agent that can enhance the cleansing power of the liver.

Why is arugula a Superfood? ›

Arugula is an excellent source of vitamin K and a good source of vitamin A. Vitamin K assists with bone building and blood clotting. Use caution with foods rich in vitamin K if you are taking anticoagulant medication.

Why is arugula good for hair? ›

Thanks to its high content of antioxidants, folates and vitamins K and B9, arugula extract will restore your hair's vigour day after day and promote its growth. It will also nourish the hair fiber in depth to make it thicker and, above all, able to resist external aggressions.

Is arugula good for anxiety? ›

Leafy Greens

The undisputed winner when it comes to anxiety and depression-fighting foods are leafy greens. Consistently ranked at the top of the list, leafy greens like kale, arugula, spinach, watercress, mustard greens, and swiss chard are must-haves in any mental health-based diet.

Is arugula good for your eyes? ›

Arugula contains carotenoids, vitamin A and B, calcium, iron and potassium. Because arugula contains a large amount of carotenoids, it helps the body absorb nutrients. The same goes for the eyes. Arugula will help your eyes absorb the proper nutrients they need to stay healthy and improve your eyesight.

Is arugula an anti-inflammatory? ›

Bosserman recommends this recipe for the hot days of spring and summer and says, “Arugula is a powerful antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it's great for disease prevention and good for our immune system.

Is arugula good before bed? ›

Dark, leafy greens are good sources of magnesium, which can help you relax. Kale, spinach, collard greens and arugula are all good choices.

Is arugula anti aging? ›

The arugula plant is known to be an excellent source of anticancer phytochemicals that fight free radical damage and slow the aging process. Many of arugula's benefits are due to its generous portions of vital nutrients — such as vitamin K, vitamin A and folate.

Is arugula good for the brain? ›

Examples they give of the best foods for brain health are as follows: kale, spinach, collards, and broccoli. Plus, Brain and Life gives arugula a shout-out as a leafy green that may keep your “brain sharp.”

What happens when you eat a lot of arugula? ›

Some of the short-term side effects of arugula include flatulence and abdominal cramping and discomfort. These bad effects are caused due to the presence of sulforaphane in arugula. Again it is dangerous for people with certain blood disorders or people who take medications for blood thinning.

Which is better for you kale or arugula? ›

Did you know that arugula has more calcium and zinc than kale? It's also nutritionally equal to kale in iron and magnesium and has fewer carbohydrates and naturally occurring sugars.

Does arugula have Omega 3? ›

Leafy Greens

Romaine, arugula, spinach, and an edible weed called purslane (also good in salads) are all green givers of omega-3 fatty acids, and they all work fantastically raw.

Is it better to eat arugula cooked or raw? ›

Sauteing is the most common method of cooking arugula. If you want to make sure you are receiving the maximum nutrition benefits, studies show that it is better to eat arugula raw. This is because cooking arugula can slightly reduce its vitamin C, antioxidant, and mineral content.

Is arugula good for teeth? ›

Leafy greens, which can include foods like lettuce, spinach, kale, and arugula, are superfoods. They are both jammed with nutrients and somehow low-calorie. The greenest leafy greens promote oral health by strengthening your tooth enamel, which provides a barrier against cavity-causing bacteria.

Is arugula good for kidneys? ›

Green leafy vegetables like arugula are full of antioxidants and vital nutrients. It is a particularly good choice since it is low in potassium, which is beneficial for your kidneys, and it helps to lower blood pressure.

Why is arugula good for your liver? ›

Liver Protection

Arugula is rich in chlorophyll, which can help to prevent liver and DNA damage from aflatoxins, a family of toxins produced by certain fungi that are found on agricultural crops such as corn, peanuts, cottonseed and tree nuts. They are associated to a higher risk for liver cancer.

Is arugula good for high blood pressure? ›

Arugula may be beneficial for cardiovascular health.

Arugula is also a good source of potassium (74 mg per cup) and magnesium (9 mg per cup). Both of these minerals may help combat high blood pressure. Increasing your potassium intake while reducing the sodium intake in your diet may improve hypertension.

How much arugula Can I take a day? ›

Three cups of arugula daily will supply you with 100 percent of your bodies need of vitamin K. It also contains eight times more calcium than iceberg lettuce. It contains indole-3-carbinol and isothiocyanates, which have been shown to suppress the production of inflammation in the body.

Is arugula good for hormones? ›

#2: Leafy Greens

Finally, spinach, arugula, and other leafy greens are packed with hormone-balancing nutrients, such as magnesium and B vitamins.

What foods repair your eyes? ›

5 best foods for eye health
  • Carrots. Carrots contain beta-carotene, which the body uses to make vitamin A. ...
  • Kale. Dark green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach and broccoli are rich in the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which are present in high concentrations in the retina. ...
  • Red peppers. ...
  • Salmon. ...
  • Oysters.
1 Feb 2022

Can arugula cause high blood pressure? ›

Along with other leafy greens, arugula contains high levels of beneficial nitrates and polyphenols. A 2014 review study found that high intakes of nitrate may lower blood pressure, reduce the amount of oxygen needed during exercise, and enhance athletic performance.

Does arugula have collagen? ›

The sulfur-containing cruciferous dark leafy greens – such as kale, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, watercress, and arugula, are especially beneficial in collagen production, as sulfur plays a key role in collagen synthesis. (Other non-leafy green crucifers, like radishes and cauliflower, are a good choice, too).

Is arugula a Superfood? ›

At #7 on the top 30 superfood list, arugula is a member of the Brassica family of vegetables called cruciferous – a group that also has other superstar foods such as broccoli, kale, and cabbage.

Is arugula high in zinc? ›

Fact: Arugula leaves contain high amounts of fiber, zinc, copper, magnesium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, folate, iron, potassium and magnesium.

Can arugula help you lose weight? ›

There's no miracle food when it comes to weight loss, but eating more fruits and vegetables like arugula can help. The green veggie is low in calories for its volume (just 5 per one-cup serving), delivering a lot of flavor and nutrients in an all-you-can-eat package.

Which foods should you avoid close to bedtime? ›

Five worst foods for sleep
  • Chocolate. High levels of caffeine in chocolate make it a poor choice for late-night snacking. ...
  • Cheese. While cheese is generally considered a comfort food, it is actually one of the worst foods to eat before bed. ...
  • Curry. ...
  • Ice cream. ...
  • Crisps. ...
  • Cherries. ...
  • Raw honey. ...
  • Bananas.

What foods make you look younger? ›

  • Extra virgin olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil is one of the healthiest oils on earth. ...
  • Green tea. Green tea is high in antioxidants, which can help fight free radicals in the body. ...
  • Fatty Fish. ...
  • Dark chocolate or cocoa. ...
  • Vegetables. ...
  • Flax seeds. ...
  • Pomegranates. ...
  • Avocados.

What food slows down aging process? ›

Vitamin C also reduces the harmful effects of sun and smoke on your skin. So fill your plate with fruit and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, red capsicum, broccoli, strawberries and kiwifruit. All fruit and veges help defend against AGEs, so eat plenty of them each day.

What foods make you age less? ›

Foods to Favor
  • Romaine lettuce. It's high in vitamins A and C, which curb inflammation. ...
  • Tomatoes. They're rich in a nutrient called lycopene. ...
  • Salmon. It's high in omega-3 fats, which fight inflammation. ...
  • Lentils and beans. These are good sources of protein and are loaded with fiber and nutrients. ...
  • Oatmeal.
22 Sept 2014

What is the number 1 food for your brain? ›

1. Fatty fish. When people talk about brain foods, fatty fish is often at the top of the list. This type of fish includes salmon, trout, albacore tuna, herring, and sardines, all of which are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids ( 1 ).

What is the best way to eat arugula? ›

Arugula can be eaten uncooked or cooked. You can use arugula uncooked in salads, either on its own, or in combination with other lettuces. Because it is quite peppery, it is often used as part of a lettuce blend, especially if the arugula is more mature and stronger in taste. It's nice in sandwiches as well.

Is arugula high in magnesium? ›

Vitamins and Minerals

Micronutrients are where arugula really shines. It is high in beta-carotene, vitamin C, folate, vitamin K, and magnesium.

What is the healthiest green vegetable? ›

1. Spinach. This leafy green tops the chart as one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables. That's because 1 cup (30 grams) of raw spinach provides 16% of the Daily Value (DV) for vitamin A plus 120% of the DV for vitamin K — all for just 7 calories ( 1 ).

Is arugula good for cholesterol? ›

The fibre in arugula helps promote digestive regularity, keeps your tummy happy and leaves you feeling full longer so you resist other fatty foods. It also helps to lower cholesterol, balance blood sugar and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Is arugula high in iron? ›

Fiber-rich arugula is also a good source of iron, and can improve the health of your red blood cells. Arugula won't cost you much by way of calories like some iron-rich foods. It has just 5 per cup, and you'll also get a nice helping of vitamin A, vitamin K, and even omega-3 fatty acids.

Is arugula good for stomach acid? ›

Bitter foods, such as arugula, dark chocolate, coffee, cranberries, dandelion greens and more that support digestion and stomach acid.

How much arugula should I eat a day? ›

Three cups of arugula daily will supply you with 100 percent of your bodies need of vitamin K. It also contains eight times more calcium than iceberg lettuce. It contains indole-3-carbinol and isothiocyanates, which have been shown to suppress the production of inflammation in the body.

Is arugula better than spinach? ›

The calorie, protein, and fiber content of both vegetables is similar, but the vitamins and minerals tip the scale towards spinach — except for calcium. Spinach has more vitamin A, C, K, folate, potassium, magnesium, manganese, and iron.

Is arugula inflammatory? ›

Arugula is an excellent anti-inflammatory vegetable. Arugula's anti-inflammatory power comes from indole-3-carbinol and erucin (an isothiocyanate).

Which is healthier kale or arugula? ›

Did you know that arugula has more calcium and zinc than kale? It's also nutritionally equal to kale in iron and magnesium and has fewer carbohydrates and naturally occurring sugars.

What foods help repair kidneys and liver? ›

If so, they may recommend you try low-potassium foods, like:
  • Apples and apple juice.
  • Cranberries and cranberry juice.
  • Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries.
  • Plums.
  • Pineapples.
  • Peaches.
  • Cabbage.
  • Boiled cauliflower.
29 Aug 2022

What is the healthiest green leafy vegetable? ›

1. Kale. Kale is considered one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables on the planet due to its many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. For example, one cup (67 grams) of raw kale packs 684% of the Daily Value (DV) for vitamin K, 206% of the DV for vitamin A and 134% of the DV for vitamin C (2).

Should you wash arugula? ›

Leafy greens need to be handled safely just like any other food. And some foodborne illnesses have been related to fresh leafy greens. Rinsing produce helps to remove some of the dirt and germs that may be present.

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