Health Benefits of Strawberries and Strawberry Leaves

Strawberry season has started out here in San Diego and we received our first pint in our organic co-op this week.  Because of the heavy use of pesticides on commercial strawberries, this is definitely a fruit that you want to buy organic.

Strawberries pack a healthy punch!  According to the World's Healthiest Foods, they ranked 27th as a best food in the US, due to their high antioxidant level and ranked 4th among fruits.  They ranked 3rd for the highest antioxidant levels per serving size!

Strawberries are high in Vit. C, phytonutrients, and a good source of manganese.  They are anti-inflammatory in nature, have blood sugar regulating qualities, fight cancer, and benefit the cardiovascular system.  You can read more about them HERE.

Strawberries are a fragile food, so if you cannot consume them within a day or two of picking or buying at the grocery store, then freeze them right away.  You want to look for berries that look plump and are bright red.

Photo Credit: grit.com

Strawberry leaves are also of value!  These can be taken as a tea or in capsule form (do not take if you have a strawberry allergy).  The leaves can be used to help balance the acids in your digestive tract and are a good digestive tonic.  Strawberry leaves can also help to prevent anemia and help with aches and pains of arthritis.  They are rich in vitamins and minerals, and is one of the best natural sources of vit. C.  The leaves can be made into an infusion tea the same way you would use red raspberry leaves.