Malabar spinach (Bassalla rubra)

Malabar spinach or Indian spinach is also known as Ceylon spinach. In Kerala, it is known as Vashala cheera, Vallicheera, Malabar cheera, Ceylon cheera. Malabar spinach is not included in the spinach family. This leafy vegetable is a perennial climbing vine. There are two types of Indian spinach like green (Bassalla alba) and purple (Bassalla rubra) in color. Stem of this vine is soft and fatty.

Regional names of Malabar Spinach

Malayalam : Vashala cheera

Tamil : Kodi pasalai or pasalai keerai

Kannada : Bassale soppu

Telugu : Bachhali

Konkani : Valchi bhaji

Marathi : Mayalu

Oriya : Poi saga

Bengali : Pui shak

Sanskrit : Upodika

Health benefits of Malabar Spinach

 

1.   Controls gestational diabetics

2.   Indian spinach has cooling and soothening properties.

3.   Used for the treatment of mouth ulcer.

4.   It is the main ingredient of the Ayurvedic tonic Sukhaprasava gritham which advices to consume from 8^th month of pregnancy.

5.   Leaves and stems are used for treating boils.

6.   High quantity of Minerals, Anti oxidants in this spinach prevents Anemia, Cancer in stomach and osteoporosis.

7.   Best vegetable for diabetic patients; as it is a low calorie food. 

8.   Induces good sleep and increases semen.

9.   Increases taste and strength.

Nutritional Benefits of Malabar Spinach

  Nutritional value in 100g Indian spinach;

  Energy : 275 calories.

Protein : 20g

Carbohydrate : 54g

Fiber : 9g

Calcium : 300mg

Vitamins : A, B1, B2 and C.

                                                      

Malabar Spinach Recipes

Leaves and tender stems of Malabar spinach are using for cooking. It is an ingredient in so many tasty recipes like salads, thoran, soup, Kootu kari, Avial, sambar and many more. Seeds of purple spinach could be used as the best natural food color.

Cultivation and Propagation of Malabar Spinach

  Propagation of Malabar spinach is done by the stem cuttings and seeds. It likes direct sun light and well drained moist soil.

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