It is referred to as the asparagus of the sea as it is a succulent that grows in tiny bushes by marsh. It has a bright green hue and also closely resembles asparagus. It is naturally salty and very flavorful. There has been recent research done on the plant and numerous health benefits have been uncovered.

Its leafless stems are similar to that of sagebrush and pigweed. The vitamin composition of this plant is plentiful as it is a great source of vitamin B complex, vitamin A and vitamin C. It is also rich in iron, calcium and iodine.

Iodine Boost

The plant itself has a bit of a nutty taste to it as well and works nicely in salads - raw and cooked. The vegetable has a high level of protein which is sometimes not the case with many other green leaves. It is very low in calories so it makes for a great ingredient to add to a healthy, plant-based diet.

Due to its iodine makeup it's a great way to get the necessary amounts that some people often lack - especially those who deal with thyroid issues. If you typically don't eat things from the sea or skip table salt, you may be deficient in iodine and not even know it.

Anticancer Properties

Salicornia has also been shown to have anticancer properties within it because of its quercetin and bioflavonoids. It's important to include these types of foods into your diet as much of what we eat informs so much of our health. Cancer is a silent killer that takes over too many people's lives and ends them prematurely.

It's still not completely understood and sufficient methods of treatment are often debated as the number of cases increases as years go by. Being preemptive and contemplative about methods to diminish chances of cancer and to improve overall health can be a good option to take.

Although the plant itself is green, it sometimes changes colors and can be seen as purple and red during various parts of the year. It typically grows in the summer months and has been found in Europe, North America, Australia and Asia. The plant is also known by another name - glasswort. This name has an interesting reasoning attached to it because when the plant itself is burnt, it can be used in the making of specific glass products.

Hair, Skin And Nails

In oil form, salicornia is great for the hair, skin and nails. Its impressive level of vitamins and minerals feeds the skin and hair follicles for a more enriched outcome. You can use a couple of drops of the oil in your favorite cleanser or shampoo for improved skin and hair.

This plant is great for the immune system which in turn has a direct affect on how your skin and hair looks. Vitamin C will give your skin a glow and your hair a natural shine.

Looking for 100% chemical-free, all-natural nourishing face and body oils? Check out Earth & Elm Nourishing Face Oil and Earth & Elm Nourishing Body Oil. Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral care, skincare, body care and foot care. If you are looking for more health resources check out the Trusted Health Resources list. 

Written By:

Serene Hitchcock is a professional freelance writer, blogger and social media strategist from San Diego, California. She has been writing for several years in many forms and facets and is interested in arts, health, self-improvement, current events and the world we live in.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.