The whole world is celebrating the discovery of a vegetable," discusses the health benefits of watercress, a vegetable known for its cancer-preventing properties.

According to research published in the British Journal of Nutrition, consuming about 100g of watercress per day may help prevent breast cancer and various other types of cancer.

Watercress, also known as Nasturtium officinale or Nasturtium microphyllum, is a semi-aquatic or aquatic plant with a distinctive peppery taste. It is rich in vitamins C, A, B1, B2, along with various minerals and fiber, and is commonly used in soups, stir-fries, or salads.

In traditional medicine, watercress is considered to have a cooling effect, a slightly bitter and spicy taste, and is used as a diuretic, aids digestion, detoxifies the body, and helps treat urinary retention, freckles, tuberculosis, diabetes, goiter, and aging prevention. Additionally, it acts as an antioxidant, strengthens the immune system, and promotes youthfulness. It is particularly used in treating kidney and gallbladder stones.

Another remarkable benefit of watercress is its cancer-fighting properties. When chewed, its glucosinolate compounds convert into isothiocyanates, which strongly inhibit cancer cell growth. Studies suggest that consuming watercress can reduce the risk of prostate, colon, cervical, and breast cancers, as well as prevent the spread of cancer cells.

However, when consuming raw watercress in salads or other dishes, it is essential to wash it thoroughly multiple times with water, salt, or disinfectant solutions to eliminate bacteria and parasites that may be present on the leaves.