by Shona Botes

(NaturalNews) When one thinks of foods that possess antidepressant and aphrodisiac qualities, asparagus very seldom comes to mind. Owing to the wide range of symptoms and ailments that this superfood is able to assist with, it is beneficial to almost everyone.

This vegetable, which is part of the lily family, is best harvested during the spring months. Only a few of the many varieties of asparagus that grow are actually edible though. The most commonly consumed variety of asparagus is green or greenish purple, ranging between six and eight inches in height. Being a food which is hand-picked, it is often quite expensive to purchase, but the many health benefits it offers make it very worthwhile.

Wild asparagus (Asparagus Racemosus) has been used for many years as a botanical medicine in India and Asia. It contains a phytonutrient called saponins. Saponins have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. They assist with lowering blood pressure and help to control blood sugar levels.

Asparagus is low in calories and high in proteins. It contains Vitamin K, folic acid and Vitamins C, A and B-complex. It is also an excellent source of fibre that is rich in niacin and phosphorus. It also contains the ideal ratios of calcium to magnesium needed by the body.

Read the full article here: http://www.naturalnews.com/032074_asparagus_aphrodisiac.html