Sheep Sorrel, also called Red Sorrel or Rumex Acetosella, is a powerful herb used for centuries for treating all kinds of health challenges including cancers. The herb is known as sheep sorrel because it often thrives in places where the sheep roam. Sheep Sorrel grows as a tall weed that is widely available in Europe, North America, Asia, and other places in the world. These plants produce green leaves that have the shape of an arrowhead, while the stems are deeply ridged and have a reddish tinge. The flowers of sheep sorrel appear on a tall and straight stem. The color of the female flowers of this plant is maroon. Every part of the plant from roots, stems, leaves, and berries can be used. Sheep sorrel served as food for hundreds of years as the plant is edible from its roots to its leaves. It is also used for seasoning meat and bread, and it is still used in food today often as a thickener in soups.
Sheep Sorrel is high in Vitamin C, as well as Vitamin A, B Vitamins, Vitamin K, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium. It also contains saponin compounds such as quercetin, anthraquinones, and tannins, which are powerful antioxidants that help prevent cancers. Sheep Sorrel contains rutin, which is a potent antioxidant and anticancer agent, and also beta-carotene that creates more “T” cells to kill cancer cells. It also can help dissolve tumors and break them down. Sheep sorrel is an important detoxifying herb and the freshly obtained juice of its leaves has a distinct diuretic effect. It is commonly used in folk medicine, especially for treating diarrhea, cancer, fever, scurvy, and inflammation. The leaves and stem of this plant are used as a diuretic tea. Sheep sorrel is also commonly used for reducing inflammation such as sinusitis. The tannins present in this plant help decrease the production of mucus by the body. There is sufficient clinical evidence regarding the use of this plant for treating sinusitis. Sheep sorrel also acts as a vasodilator to maintain the fluid balance in the body. It decreases the stress in the cardiovascular system and helps regulate blood pressure. In addition, this herb also has antibacterial and antiviral properties to fight against infections. People can apply sheep sorrel topically to rinse the skin if they are suffering from skin issues like eczema, herpes, and itchy rashes. Sheep sorrel is hepato-protective, it protects the liver and boosts liver functions. The protocatechuic acid and anthocyanins in sheep sorrel protect the liver from damage.
Here are some amazing health benefits of sheep sorrel:
- Prevents cancers and boosts immunity.
- Detoxifies the liver and supports liver functions.
- Supports digestive health and relieves indigestion and constipation.
- Relieves UTIs due to its diuretic and antibacterial properties.
- Reduces skin irritations, rashes, and minor wounds.
- Promotes healthy bones.
- Improves cardiovascular system and manages cholesterol levels.
You can consume the fresh leaves of the plant as a green vegetable. However, avoid taking the leaves in excess as they can be toxic due to the presence of oxalic acid. Sheep sorrel leaves are nutritious for flavoring mixed salads. You should not overconsume this plant since it contains a high level of oxalic acid, which can be potentially toxic in high doses. It is safe to take sorrel in small amounts but should not exceed 500 grams. Too much oxalic acid can cause kidney stones. People suffering from health conditions like kidney stones or arthritis should be particularly cautious if they want to incorporate sheep sorrel weed into their diet. Large doses of sheep sorrel can cause diarrhea and cramps. If you are taking sorrel supplements, always take the lower dose as directed by a clinician.
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