Health Benefits of Cabbage

9. Cures Engorgement of the Breasts

Dealing with engorgement of the breasts during breastfeeding is nothing less than a nightmare for a mother. Breast engorgement occurs when your breasts are painfully overfull of milk. You can use cabbage leaves to reduce swelling and pain in moderate to severe engorgement of the breasts.

The antibiotic and anti-irritant properties of cabbage help reduce tissue congestion by dilating local capillaries and improving the blood flow in the area.

        1. Put a few cabbage leaves in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

         2. Place a cold cabbage leaf on the engorged breast.

         3. When the leaf reaches room temperature, replace it with a new one.

         4. Do this a few times daily until the engorgement subsides.

10. Heals Sprained Ankles

If you’ve sprained your ankle, cabbage is all that you need. Its anti-inflammatory effect helps treat simple sprains. It helps reduce the swelling in sprains and broken bones.

It is also high in vitamins and phytonutrients that support the healing process.

        1. Remove the outer leaves from a head of cabbage.

        2. Using a rolling pin, gently crush the leaves so that juice is released.

        3. Wrap the cabbage leaves in foil and warm them in the oven.

        4. Put the warm cabbage leaves over the painful area.

        5. Secure them with a gauze bandage, then cover the area with plastic wrap to retain its warmth.

        6. Leave it on for 30 minutes.

        7. Use this remedy twice daily for a few days.

Important Tips

    -- If you have thyroid problems, avoid eating large amounts of cabbage. It interferes with the body’s absorption of iodine.

    -- Some people may have trouble digesting cruciferous vegetables and may experience digestive symptoms. In such cases, eating small portions and cooking the cabbage well may help.

    -- When buying cabbage, choose one that is heavy for its size. Make sure the leaves are tight and firm.

    -- You can store cabbage in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

    -- Do not overcook cabbage, as it can lead to a sulfurous odor.