Asparagus: Vegetable or Healing Herb?

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) was considered a culinary delicacy by the ancient Greeks and Romans. It was also mentioned by Pliny in his writings on herbs. Sometimes called "sparrow grass" due to the fact that its name was derived from the Latin "sparagus," this native of Europe and Asia is now cultivated throughout the world. Most of us consider it a vegetable; however, many alternative medicine practitioners view it as a healing herb.

As an herb, asparagus has cleansing and restorative properties. It is frequently used to treat rheumatism, sciatica, and gout. (You can either make an infusion of asparagus or enjoy it as a side dish.) Asparagus is also a diuretic, which makes it good for treating urinary tract infections. There is a caveat, though, which I will explain through the following cautionary tale:

When I was quite young -- about three or four -- I was diagnosed with a kidney disease. During this same time, I also had a problem with bed-wetting. The kidney problem was treated, but the other problem did not go away. My doctor, who also happened to have been a former Navy doctor, during the coarse of asking my mother about my drinking and eating habits, hit upon the fact that I like asparagus. Actually, I loved asparagus. I would eat an entire can by myself and could have eaten it every day of the week. (I was a weird kid.) Turned out that when he was in the Navy, the sailors on a ship to which he was assigned started wetting their beds. The doctor had the cooks dump all of the asparagus overboard. Problem solved -- as was mine.

This brief story not only illustrates that asparagus is a powerful diuretic but also that it should be avoided by those suffering from a kidney disease. I have had problems with my kidneys off and on for my entire life, and I still love asparagus. (It still is my favorite vegetable.) I am, however, very judicious about my consumption of asparagus, only treating myself to some every now and then. (Anyone with a kidney disease should really consult their physician if they also happen to be asparagus-lovers.)

Asparagus is a perennial that is actually quite easy to grow. Rootstock should be planted in rich, loamy, well-drained soil in full sun. Edible stalks are usually not produced until about the third year.

Notes of interest:
Asparagus is high in vitamins A and C plus the minerals calcium, phosphorus, and iron.

For one of my favorite asparagus recipes, see my recipe for Asparagus and Garlic.

References:
Houdret, Jessica. Practical Herb Garden. London, England: Hermes House, 2003.

Kruger, Anna. An Illustrated Guide to Herbs, Their Medicine and Magic. Surrey, England: Dragon's World Ltd., 1993.