Another Wonderful Summer Spinach Egyptian Spinach

Egyptian Spinach, بذور حشيشة السودان Corchorus olitorius, is getting increasingly popular as a summer crop in our part of the world. It goes under many names Molokhia/Molokheiya (and several other ways to spell it) such as salad mallow Jew's mallow mallow and West African sorrel to name but several. It is believed that it has been first discovered in Egypt prior to Christ and was a staple food since the period of the Pharaohs. The Egyptian name molokheiya refers to "vegetables suitable for the King', according to Wikipedia, a sick Egyptian King, in the year 6000 BC, requested hot soup after being unwell . After taking hot soup each day, his illness was cured. Cleopatra is also said to have drank the same soup. Egyptian Spinach as well as its many close connections grow across Africa, the Middle East, India and numerous parts of Asia. It will thrive in all tropical and sub tropical regions all over the world.



It can be grown in the form of an annual. It will grow up to an metre high, bears small yellow flowers, and produces edible seeds that are shaped like pods. The edible leaves may also be harvested in a continuous manner. It is very robust and rapidly growing. Being a relative of okra many of the same characteristics are in place. It is a fan of the heat, is tolerant of dry and humid conditions (not waterlogged) however it doesn't appreciate the shade.


Large Egyptian spinach plant growing in the green house lattice


Are you looking to plant some? It can thrive in any type of soil and does not care about pH. However, it prefers soil that is fertile and well-drained. It is also able to thrive in pots. Preparing the soil is as normal. Then, plant the seeds right to where they will flourish. Spring and autumn are the ideal times to plant. Egyptian spinach seeds will sprout better if bathed in hot water prior planting for at least few minutes. Isabel Shipard recommends soaking for at least 12 hours. The time to pick leaves is when the plant is about 40 centimeters high. The seeds that mature on the plant and drop to the ground will lay dormant in the soil until the conditions are suitable and can be used for the next crop. Egyptian spinach is nearly completely disease and pest-free. Caterpillars and grazers share the leaves with you and during summer they can be affected by red spider mites however generally not an issue. The seeds are currently available through BOGI seeds.



The leaf is rich in minerals, vitamins and protein. Younger leaves can be eaten raw in salads, in sandwiches and the older leaves dried or cooked. You can use leaves like spinach. The leaves are used in Egypt in a soup that is traditional which includes coriander, garlic as well as meat. In other areas, it can be made into a stew using cassava, rice, and chicken meat. There are numerous recipes for this vegetable. Leaves can be dried , then powdered and made into tea. The tea can then be to be used in future stews and soups to add flavor and to thicken the dish . It is available in Japan through health food shops as a healthy and nutritious tea. It is possible to use seedlings that are young pods the same way as the okra.



The health benefits of Egyptian spinach have been marketed from the time of the Pharaohs. As a tea , it is said to enhance your immune system. It is also said to help treat constipation, anaemia, cancer and cystitis, diabetes fatigue, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, menopausal symptoms weight gain, respiratory ailments and water retention. Tea made from leaves can help during the birth process and improve mothers' milk production. It can be used to treat rashes, sore eyes as well as rashes, cuts and rashes.



Due to the length of their stalks, which are strong and long The Corchorus genus has many members that can be grown for Jute. This jute was used over many centuries to make coarse yarn. This could later be used as rope as well as as a packing fabric. The tallest, unbranched stems are the most suitable to use for this. The stems were then soaked in vegetable matter for a few days to allow the fibres to begin to decay. The fibres were easily removed, then cleaned and dried. This fibre is also used for paper production in some regions. Corchorus Olitorius or Egyptian spinach is most effective as a vegetable for leaf production, while the other related species are more suitable to make jute.