Yucca is a plant native to the desert regions of America. Among the 50 or so species that exist in nature, some have acclimatized to our regions and are therefore grown in pots or even in the garden. Did you know that this plant with hard and pointed leaves had health benefits? Discover the unsuspected virtues of Yucca for your health and well-being.
In this article, we will indeed refer to yucca, the plant with the pointed leaves and not yuca which is also called cassava...
Yucca, présentation botanique
The yuccas belong to the Agavaceae family. They are perennial and can take the form of shrubs or small trees. They were originally found in the desert regions of America. However, although they are sensitive to moisture and standing water, they tolerate the cold temperatures of our regions around -10°C to -25°C well.
Thus, yuccas like poor, dry, stony, well-drained soil, sunny exposure, and tolerate seaside climates rather well.
The yuccas can also be grown in pots, placed on your patio and, if you have winters mixing rain and frost, you can bring it inside in winter.
There are about 50 species recognizable by their hard, pointed, sword-shaped leaves and clustered white flowers.
Propriétés du Yucca
The yucca is well known in gardens for its decorative qualities but perhaps you didn't know it had health benefits.
The yucca is an edible plant rich in starch, B vitamins, E, C and K.
It also contains Omega-3 essential fatty acids, Omega-6.
Dietary fiber.
Protein.
Sodium and Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, Copper and Selenium.
Le yucca pour qui, pour quoi ?
Tonique
The yucca is a tonic that helps shorten the recovery time of the sick, injured and athletes. Thanks to folic acid (B9) and potassium, the entire body is better oxygenated. In addition, the presence of vitamin C and zinc plays a significant role in the immune response and vitality.
Digestif
The yucca acts on digestive disorders thanks to the fiber it contains. Indeed, these participate in the production of enzymes and the development of a healthy microbiota. They regulate the transit and reduce the risks of constipation, bloating and other digestive discomforts. Fiber protects against colon cancer.
Anti-cholestérol
The presence of essential fatty acids rectifies the LDL/HDL balance and promotes "good" cholesterol. In addition, saponin binds to the cholesterol and prevents its absorption by the intestines.
Prévention du diabète de type 2
The yucca is rich in fiber, which also works to prevent type 2 diabetes. They prevent blood sugar spikes by trapping sugar in the cellulose which allows the sugar to gradually diffuse into the bloodstream and/or be naturally released through natural pathways.
Hypotenseur, vasodilatateur
The potassium present in yucca is a recognized vasodilator. It lowers blood pressure and facilitates the passage of blood through the blood vessels.
Antioxydant
Vitamin E is a powerful natural antioxidant. It protects cells against the harmful effects of free radicals. Stress, sun, pollution, conventional food, poor oxygenation, lack of sport oxidize the cells causing premature aging of the skin, a decline in cognitive faculties, respiratory problems such as asthma etc...
Contre la douleur
Also rich in saponin, yucca relieves headaches and joint pain.
Comment consommer le yucca
The yucca is an edible plant. The tubers are eaten cooked, boiled in water, steamed or in a vitalizer.
Nevertheless, if you cannot harvest the yucca tubers yourself, it is possible to find ready-to-use remedies in the form of capsules, powders or extracts in organic stores. Pay attention to the labels! Be sure to check that it is Yucca and not cassava (Yuca).
Contre-indication dans la consommation de Yucca
The yucca contains a significant amount of potassium (K). It will therefore be unsuitable for people with kidney problems and/or who need to follow a low-potassium diet or who are already on hypokalemic medication.