Nasturtium: Benefits and Effects, Growing Methods and Precautions

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) belongs to the family Tropaeolaceae and the genus Tropaeolum, and its whole plant holds important medicinal value in traditional Chinese medicine. It is widely distributed across Northeast China, North China and Inner Mongolia, and is a plant that combines ornamental and medicinal functions.

Nasturtium is cool in nature and can effectively clear heat toxins from the body, noticeably relieving symptoms such as red and swollen eyes and sore, swollen throat. Nasturtium has a swelling-reducing effect and can be used to treat carbuncles, boils and toxic swellings, easing the local swelling and pain caused by inflammation.

Modern research shows that nasturtium contains compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids and organic acids, and these components give it antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity that helps boost the body's resistance. Nasturtium is often used as a supportive treatment for respiratory diseases such as upper respiratory tract infections, tonsillitis and pharyngitis, helping to relieve symptoms and promote recovery.

Nasturtium is suitable for people with the symptoms described above, especially patients with red and swollen eyes, sore and swollen throat, carbuncles, boils and toxic swellings, and upper respiratory tract infections. Note, however, that those with a weak and cold spleen and stomach should use it with caution, and it should be used under medical advice rather than taken at will.

Nasturtium not only has high medicinal value but also, thanks to its beautiful flowers, has become a favorite of gardening enthusiasts. The following are the growing methods and precautions for nasturtium.

Nasturtium likes fertile sandy soil, and soil with good aeration favors the development of its root system. You can also make your own soil mix, usually by combining 7 parts sandy soil, 1 part leaf mold, 1 part compost and 1 part river sand; such soil provides ample nutrients while maintaining good drainage.

Nasturtium likes sunlight and should be placed in a spot with plenty of light to promote its growth and flowering. In summer, however, when the sun is too strong, it needs appropriate shading to prevent direct strong light from scorching the leaves. The suitable growing temperature is 18-24°C, and in winter care must be taken to keep it warm and prevent frost damage; potted nasturtium should be moved indoors in winter, keeping the room temperature no lower than 10°C.

During the growing period, nasturtium needs the soil kept moist, but not waterlogged, so as to avoid root rot. At the same time, the surrounding humidity should also be kept at a relatively high level, and air humidity can be increased by misting and similar methods. On rainy days, pay attention to drainage and waterlogging prevention, avoiding standing water in the pot.

Before planting, apply a base fertilizer, preferably well-rotted organic fertilizer. When nasturtium grows its third true leaf, apply a top dressing of dilute liquid fertilizer once, and thereafter fertilize as needed according to its growth. To encourage branching and flowering, pruning is needed; when the vines reach a certain length, they can be shaped and tied, and pinching can be combined with this to promote side-branch growth.

Nasturtium is relatively rarely attacked by pests and diseases, but control still needs attention. Common problems include leaf miners, aphids and whiteflies, which can be controlled by regular spraying. When diseased leaves or plants are found, they should be cleaned up and destroyed promptly to prevent spread.

As long as you master the correct growing methods and precautions, you can easily cultivate a healthy, lush nasturtium and enjoy the many benefits it brings.