Watercress

At a Glance

Common name

Watercress

Scientific name

Nasturtium officinale

Family

Brassicaceae

Region

Europe

Plant part

Aerial parts

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A low creeping aquatic perennial with compound leaves of small rounded oval leaflets on hollow stems and tiny clusters of white four-petalled flowers; the aerial parts are used.

Also known as: Cress, Watercress, True Watercress

Historical Background

Watercress has been a peppery aquatic of European, Greek, and Persian tables for millennia, prized as a vitality food and a source of vitamin C. A gentle watercress tea is traditionally sipped for its fresh, peppery, green cup and antioxidant traditions.

Earliest recorded uses: European, Greek, and Persian traditions for millennia; a peppery aquatic and a vitality herb.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Peppery, fresh, green, slightly mustard-like

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Watercress is rich in vitamin C, K, and glucosinolates with antioxidant activity. Clinical evidence for specific benefits is limited; it is not a treatment for cancer, scurvy, or any disease, and vitamin K content may interact with blood thinners.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.