I love eating cabbage; I used it for coleslaw, stir fry, and sauerkraut. I even used the leaves for my cabbage facial mask to firm sagging skin naturally.
But did you know, that cabbage has been referred to as a folk remedy for thousands of years to heal painful joints? It’s because the humble leaf of the cabbage has potent anti-inflammatory compounds that provide a remarkably effective treatment for relieving swelling, bruising, simple strains and the pain associated with a wonky knee, twisted ankle, and painful joints?
Benefits of Cabbage
It is rich in vitamins, phytonutrients, anthocyanins and glutamine, all of them containing anti-inflammatory properties. Coatings of cabbage can be used as a healing wrap in treating throat inflammation, bronchitis, headaches, gangrene, worms, purulent ulcers, rashes, etc.
The leaves are also used to treat inflammation of the tendons, migraines, varicose veins, burns, swelling, acne, etc.
Purple cabbage is more efficient, but any kind of it can be useful for treatment. Always wash and dry the cabbage leaves before applying them on your body. Make sure you use big leaves as they can cover the whole part that is affected. Fix the leaves with a plaster or bandage and let them sit overnight to their healing. Change the coating every day.
Different Uses:
① Menstrual Cramps
Placing cabbage leaves cooled in the fridge over the abdomen can have a soothing effect on menstrual cramps. If your body responds better to heat, try blanching the leaves in boiling water or placing them in the microwave before lying them over the abdomen.
② Mastitis
For painful breast infection, apply cabbage leaves directly to the breast inside the bra. Replace the leaves as they become limp. This method is also beneficial for breast tenderness during pregnancy and your menstrual cycle.
③ Arthritis and Joint Pain
Cabbage wraps are useful in relieving joint pain. Use an ace bandage or cohesive tape to further secure the plastic-wrapped cabbage around painful knees. It is advised to change the wrap every few hours during the day.
④ Sprained Ankle or Wrist
The pain from a sprained ankle or wrist can be mitigated with the use of a cabbage wrap. Wear a cabbage wrap at night and removing it in the morning to allow the skin to breathe before applying a fresh wrap.
⑤ Infection
When using a cabbage wrap to treat an infection, do not cover with plastic wrap and be careful to change the wrap every two hours. If you notice red streaks, increased swelling or fever, seeking immediate medical attention is important.
⑥ Ingrown Toenails
Wrapping cabbage leaves around ingrown toenails can help remove pus and heal the infection. Cover the plastic-wrapped cabbage with a sock and letting it work its magic overnight. Remove the leaves in the morning and follow with an Epsom salt for best results.
⑦ Swollen Calves
If you’ve just stepped off a plane and are suffering from the pounding pain of swollen calves, Try applying a cabbage wrap around the calves and resting with the legs elevated for up to 1 hour.
Watch the video below on how to make a poultice cabbage wrap.
Credit: TipsandTell
