Pronunciation: xiàn cài

1. Definition:

Amaranth, also known as Yanlaihong, Laojun, is a kind of herbaceous plant. The stems are thick and green or red.

2. Classification:

Amaranth can be divided into 3 types according to the color of the leaves:

Green amaranth: green leaves, strong heat resistance, The texture is hard.

Red amaranth: The leaves are purple-red, with medium heat resistance and soft texture.

Colored amaranth: The leaves have green edges and purple-red near the veins. They have poor heat resistance and soft texture.

3. Food value:

Amaranth has a soft and smooth body and a strong flavor. It has a sweet taste and has the effect of moisturizing the stomach and clearing away heat.

Amaranth can replenish qi, clear away heat, improve eyesight, smooth the fetus, and benefit the large and small intestines. It can promote the growth of teeth and bones, maintain normal myocardial activity, and prevent muscle spasms.

It also has the functions of promoting coagulation, increasing hemoglobin content, improving oxygen-carrying capacity, and promoting hematopoiesis.

It can also help you lose weight and cleanse your body, promote detoxification and prevent constipation.

4. Growth environment:

Amaranth is native to China, India and Southeast Asia. It has been eaten as a wild vegetable in China since ancient times. There are more amaranth varieties in southern China than in the north. There are some high-quality and nutritious amaranth varieties in various parts of the south.