5 Least Known Health Benefits of Carrot Leaves

If you’ve always binned carrot stalks in the past, it’s time to change that. With an increasing emphasis on sustainability, foods that were until recently considered inedible, are now being given a second life. Like mustard greens and celery leaves, carrot leaves are now being utilized as well. Apart from reducing waste, carrot leaves are also extremely nutrient-dense. Here are 5 reasons why you should start eating carrot leaves.

# They’re Rich In Chlorophyll

It’s not just plants which need chlorophyll, it’s just as beneficial for humans too. The composition of chlorophyll is very similar to our blood. Eating more of it can purify your blood by getting rid of harmful toxins within it. Chlorophyll is also a powerful natural antioxidant, which can protect you from cancer. Another way chlorophyll can fight cancer is because of its purifying properties. It removes dangerous carcinogens from our body, before they can cause cell mutation. Many people take chlorophyll supplements, but why take a pill when you can get it right at the source?

# They Purify Your Kidneys

Not drinking enough water or holding your pee can put a strain on your kidneys. Carrot leaves can counter this damage by filtering out impurities. Because they’re so bitter, they have natural, diuretic and purifying properties. This stimulates the kidneys to increase urine output and carry toxins out of the body. Consumption of carrot leaves can also prevent the formation of kidney stones and in some cases, dissolve them after they’re formed.

# Improve Your Colon Health

Your colon is responsible for carrying waste out of your body, along with toxins present in it. If it isn’t doing its job properly, your health can be in serious danger. One way to keep your colon functioning at its best is to increase your fiber intake. Fiber adds bulk to stools and aids digestion. Carrot leaves are extremely high in fiber, which can keep your colon clean. They also contain chlorophyll which encourages waste removal and detoxifies the colon.

# Keeps Your Bones Strong

In many ways, carrot leaves are actually more nutritious than carrots themselves. They’re much higher in minerals like potassium, calcium and also vitamins A and K. All of these nutrients are important for strong, healthy bones. As we get older, our bones become more brittle as we start losing bone mass. Eating carrot greens often can give our bones the nutrients it needs to maintain its density. This is especially important for postmenopausal women who have a much higher risk of developing osteoporosis.

# Important For Healthy Eyes

While carrots are often credited with keeping your eyes healthy, their leaves are just as beneficial. Carrot leaves have even more vitamin A than the roots do. Vitamin A is extremely important for good vision and healthy eye muscles. They prevent macular degeneration and cataract formation.