Samphire is considered as a sea herb as it is an edible plant found on rocky coastal areas. It is bright green in color, grows in marshland areas and has salty taste .
Varieties:
- Marsh Samphire (Glasswort/ Sea Asparagus) whose scientific name is Salicornia europaea
- Rock Samphire (Sea Fennel) whose scientific name is Crithmum maritimum
Majorly, Samphire has culinary uses, some of which are described below:
- It is considered as ideal accompaniment with seafood, particularly fish, due to its natural salty taste.
- Steamed with butter and black pepper and taken as such.
- Used in salads in its finely chopped state and giving a fresh salty crunch.
Benefits:
- Rich in vitamin C, aids in digestion and can even help relieve flatulence.
- Traditionally used in medicines for liver issues.
- Helps in strengthening the immune system.
- It is considered as a good source of beta carotene and thus help in supporting eye health and promoting healthy skin.
- Its fiber content help in regulating digestive tract.
- It is considered as a good source of multivitamins and other nutrients that help in maintaining body in a proper state.
Side-effects/ Precautions:
- Individuals with high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases and other related issues should consume Samphire with caution as it is high in sodium content.
- If consumed in excessive amounts, it may result in formation of kidney stones in some susceptible people.
- Due to high levels of iodine in Samphire, it may result in imbalance of thyroid function in human body.
- As it grows in coastal areas, Samphire can have heavy metals absorbed in it and heavy metals intake can adversely affect the human body. So, it must be taken care that Samphire is hygienically harvested from unpolluted and clean areas.
- It can interrupt the actions or functioning of other medicines as well. So, consultation with doctor is must before consuming it.
On the whole, it can be said that as more food options are being emerging, precautions must be taken so as to get maximum benefit of that food item, with minimum adverse impact on the body.
What’s your take on this rising research towards exploring food items in sea or other water bodies and the surrounding areas?
References: Link 1 , Link 2 , Link 3
MBH/AB