Cabbage

Christopher Hobbs:

“Cabbage juice, freshly made (1 liter per day), diluted with water, has been shown effective for pain relief and healing in gastric and duodenal ulcers. The juice should not be taken on an empty stomach.

Cabbage has a taste of SWEET, ACRID and a temperature of COOL.”

Historical Uses

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea) has been used medicinally for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. Historically, it was used to treat ulcers, wounds, hangovers, digestive disorders, and respiratory ailments. Folk medicine practitioners valued cabbage leaves for their anti-inflammatory properties, often applying them externally to reduce swelling and pain.

Modern Clinical Uses

Herbalists and naturopaths use cabbage for digestive health, particularly for ulcers, gastritis, and acid reflux. Cabbage juice, rich in vitamins and minerals, is popular for soothing the stomach lining and aiding in ulcer healing. Cabbage is also used topically for mastitis, arthritis, and wound care. Red cabbage, rich in anthocyanins, is valued for its antioxidant properties.

Chemistry

Cabbage is rich in bioactive compounds such as:

• Glucosinolates: Precursors to isothiocyanates, which have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.
• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant.
• Sulfur compounds: Support detoxification pathways in the liver.
• Fiber: Improves gut health.
• Anthocyanins (in red cabbage): Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.

Pharmacology

• Anti-inflammatory: Glucosinolates and their metabolites reduce inflammation.
• Anti-ulcer: Sulforaphane, derived from glucosinolates, promotes the production of protective enzymes in the stomach lining.
• Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals, reducing oxidative stress.
• Anti-cancer: Studies link cabbage consumption with reduced risk of colorectal and lung cancers.
• Antimicrobial: Compounds in cabbage may inhibit the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium linked to ulcers.

Clinical Trials

1. Cabbage and Ulcers: Studies show that cabbage juice accelerates the healing of peptic ulcers due to its high concentration of vitamin U (S-methylmethionine).
2. Cancer Prevention: Epidemiological studies link cruciferous vegetable consumption, including cabbage, with a lower risk of several cancers.
3. Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Trials demonstrate reduced markers of inflammation and oxidative stress after consuming red cabbage.
4. Wound Healing: Limited studies show cabbage leaf applications improve healing in minor wounds and reduce swelling in mastitis.

Summary

Cabbage is a nutrient-dense vegetable with historical and modern medicinal uses. Rich in antioxidants, glucosinolates, and vitamins, it supports digestive health, reduces inflammation, and may help prevent cancer. While clinical trials are limited, existing research supports its benefits for ulcers, wound healing, and overall health. It is safe for most people when consumed or used appropriately.