Move Over, Matcha – There’s a New Herb in Town
Ashitaba is a large herb that resembles a green leafy plant. It grows in the central region of Japan. It has been used for medicinal purposes for over 400 years. However, some historians believe the herb goes back thousands of years! It’s said to be one of the healthiest herbs on the planet. Although extensive research on ashitaba has just begun, it already shows signs of being one of the world’s most powerful healing plants.
Healing Benefits of Ashitaba
Helps Prevent Cancer
- Ashitaba has antioxidant properties that exhibited anti-cancer effects. They are able to suppress abnormalities in cell growth.
Rich in Vitamin B-12
- This herb is rich in vitamin B-12, which is vital for nerve growth.
- Vitamin B-12 can strengthen the immune system
- Vitamin B-12 accelerates the production of blood cells
Improved the Immune System
- It acts as an anti-inflammatory, which prevents certain diseases and reduces muscular and joint pain
- The vitamins in Ashitaba make it an excellent source for treating cold and fly symptoms
- It can help accelerate wound healing and prevents infection
Improved Central Nervous System
- It stimulates the nerve growth factor, which is important in the development and survival of nerve cells.
Has a High Amount of Chalcones
- Ashitaba has the highest amount of chalcone in the world. Chalcone is a compound that has incredible healing effects.
- Chalcone can help lower blood pressure
- It can also fasten one’s metabolism
- Chalcone is known to improve mood and reduce anxiety
Matcha & Ashitaba Pudding
Now you know the benefits of this magical herb, why not incorporate it into your diet? Make a delicious ashitaba drink in the morning before you go to school or work. Because it’s caffeine free, you can enjoy it at night before going to bed. Just a word of advice: on its own, ashitaba tastes earthy, or like wild plants. That’s why we incorporated a few of our favorite ingredients to improve its taste without sacrificing any nutritional value.
Ingredients:
For the chia pudding:
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 5-6 Tbsp chia seeds
- 3 Tbsp matcha green-tea powder
- 1 Tbsp ashitaba
- Stevia to taste
- pink salt to taste
For the strawberry pine-pollen glaze:
- 7 organic strawberries
- 3 Tbsp coconut water
- 1 tsp pine pollen
- pinch pink salt
- Stevia, if you want it sweeter
Directions
For the Chia Pudding:
- Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and leave in the fridge overnight.
For the Strawberry Pine-Pollen Glaze:
- Combine all the ingredients in a high-speed blender or food processor Add liquid when necessary. Be sure to scrape down sides.
Assemble Pudding + Glaze
- In a bowl, alternate between chilled chia pudding and strawberry glaze. Top with hemp seeds and watermelon seeds (or your preferred healthy topping).
Recipe from The Chalkboard Mag
