Another Spinach That Is Great For Our Summers -- Egyptian Spinach

Egyptian Spinach, Corchorus olitorius, is getting very well-known as a summer vegetable in our part of the world. It is also known as Molokhia/Molokheiya and many more names. It is believed that it has been first discovered in Egypt prior to Christ and has been a staple food since days of the Pharaohs. Molokheiya is an Egyptian term meaning "vegetable for king", is the Egyptian name for the soup. Wikipedia reports that an ill Egyptian King in the year 6000 BC requested hot soup, and was healed by drinking hot soup regularly. Cleopatra might also have enjoyed the same soup. Egyptian Spinach and its numerous close connections grow across Africa as well as the Middle East, India and various parts of Asia. It will thrive in all subtropical and أفضل انواع بذور البرسيم tropical zones throughout the world.



It is grown in the form of an annual. It grows up to a metre in height, produces small yellow flowers and produces edible seed pods. The edible leaves can be harvested in a continuous manner. It is very hardy and grows rapidly. Being a relative of Okra, many of the same characteristics are in place. It is a fan of the heat, and can withstand both dry and wet conditions (not waterlogged) however it doesn't appreciate the shade.


Large Egyptian spinach plant growing up lattices in green home


Do you want to grow some? It is able to grow in any soil type and isn't particular about pH, however obviously prefers fertile moist soil. It can even grow in pots. Make sure you prepare your soil in the normal manner and then place the seed directly in the area where they'll grow the most optimal time for planting is between the seasons of spring and fall. Egyptian spinach seeds will develop better if they are placed in hot water prior to planting for at minimum a few minutes. Isabel Shipard recommends soaking for at least 12 hours. The time to pick leaves is when the plant is about 40 cm high. The seeds that mature on the plant and أفضل انواع بذور البرسيم drop to the ground, will rest in dormancy until next year. Egyptian spinach is nearly completely disease and pest-free. Caterpillars and grazers take advantage of the leaves and during the hot summer, they can be affected by red spider mites however generally not an issue. BOGI Seeds offers seeds currently.



The leaf is a rich source of nutrients, minerals and protein. The younger leaves can be used for sandwiches or salads, while older leaves can either be dried or cooked. The leaves can be utilized in similar to spinach. The leaves are utilized in Egypt in a soup that is traditional made with coriander, garlic as well as meat. In other areas, it can be made into a stew with cassava, rice, and chicken meat. There are many recipes for this plant. The leaves can be dried, and then ground to make a tea. Once the tea is ready you can keep them in a container and use them to make further stews or soups. It is available in Japan through health food shops as a healthy and nutritious tea. Young seed pods can be utilized in the same manner as the okra.



Since the Pharaohs, Egyptian spinach has been praised as having health benefits. As a tea it will boost your immune system and is also said to be helpful for treating anaemia, cancer, constipation and cystitis, diabetes fatigue and high blood pressure high cholesterol, menopausal symptoms overweight, respiratory disorders as well as water retention. Tea made of leaves can help during pregnancy and help increase mother's milk production. It can also be used for treating eye sores, rashes and cuts.



Because of their strong, long stalks The Corchorus genus has many members that can be grown to make Jute. Through the ages, this jute was used to make a coarse yarn that was later made into rope and material for sacking. The stems that were the tallest and unbranched were best for this. The stems were submerged in vegetable matter for several days to allow the fibers to rot. The fibres could be easily removed, and later cleaned and dried. In certain regions the fibre could be used to make paper. Corchorus Olitorius, also known as Egyptian spinach, is best utilized to create jute. However many of its cousins are also suitable for other uses.