5 Surprising Health Benefits of Chives Powder | Skin & More

Chives are a common herb that you may have seen in salads, soups, or potato dishes. They are small, green, and onion-like, with a mild and pleasant flavor. But did you know that chives are more than just a garnish? They are actually a nutrient-dense vegetable that belongs to the allium family, along with garlic, onions, leeks, and shallots. Chives have many health benefits, ranging from improving skin and hair to preventing cancer and heart disease. 

In this article, we will explore the health benefits of chives, especially in the form of chives powder, which is a convenient and versatile way to use this herb. We will also look at the nutritional profile of chives powder, how to use it in your diet, and how to store it properly. Here are five surprising chives powder benefits for your skin and more.

What are chives?

Chives are a perennial herb that grows in clumps of thin, hollow, and cylindrical stems. They have purple flowers that bloom in spring and summer, which are also edible. Chives are native to Europe, Asia, and North America and have been cultivated for thousands of years for their culinary and medicinal uses. 

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Chives are closely related to onions but have a milder and more delicate flavor. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and organic compounds that can benefit your health in various ways.

Health Benefits of Chives for Skin, Hair and More

Rich in antioxidants

Chives are rich in antioxidants, which are substances that can protect your cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage. Oxidative stress and free radical damage are linked to various chronic diseases, such as cancer and diabetes. Chives contain at least 17 types of flavonoids, which are a group of antioxidants that have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.

One of the most abundant flavonoids in chives is quercetin, which can modulate the immune system, lower blood pressure, and prevent allergies. Chives also contain sulfur compounds, such as allicin and diallyl disulfide, which can inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Boosts immunity

Chives can also boost your immunity and help you fight infections and diseases. They are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for the production and function of white blood cells. Vitamin C also enhances the absorption of iron, which is crucial for oxygen transport and immune response. 

Chives also contain vitamin A, which is vital for the health of your mucous membranes, skin, and eyes. Chives also have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties thanks to their sulfur compounds and flavonoids.

Improves bone health

Not only this, but chives can help improve your bone health and prevent osteoporosis, a condition that causes your bones to become weak and brittle. Chives are a good source of vitamin K, which is crucial for bone formation and mineralization. Vitamin K also helps your body use calcium, which is the main component of your bones. 

It also contains calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are essential minerals for bone health. It helps to modulate the hormones that affect bone metabolism.

Fights cancer

Chives may help prevent cancer and its development. It contains various phytochemicals that have anti-cancer properties, such as flavonoids and folic acid. Flavonoids can induce apoptosis in cancer cells and prevent them from spreading and invading other tissues. 

Sulfur compounds, such as allicin and diallyl disulfide, can block the activation of carcinogens and enhance the detoxification of the body. Folic acid, or folate, can prevent DNA damage and mutations, and reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as colon, cervical, and breast cancer.

Supports heart health

Chives may also improve heart health and prevent cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis. Chives can lower your blood pressure by relaxing your blood vessels and improving your blood flow. They can also lower your cholesterol levels by reducing the production and absorption of cholesterol in your liver and intestines. 

They can also prevent the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol, which can cause plaque buildup and hardening of your arteries. Chives can also reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in your blood vessels and prevent blood clots and strokes.

Promotes digestive health

Chives can also promote your digestive health and prevent various digestive problems, such as constipation, gas, bloating, and indigestion. Chives can stimulate your digestive juices and enzymes to help you break down food and absorb nutrients. They can also regulate your bowel movements and prevent constipation by increasing the bulk and moisture of your stool. 

Along with this, it also prevents and treats various digestive disorders, such as ulcers, colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome, by reducing inflammation and infection in your gastrointestinal tract.

Improves sleep

Chives may also improve your sleep quality and quantity and help you feel more rested and refreshed. Chives contain choline, which is a B vitamin that is involved in the production and function of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, serotonin, and melatonin. 

These neurotransmitters are responsible for regulating your mood, memory, learning, and sleep. Chives can also help you relax and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which are common causes of insomnia and poor sleep.

Promotes hair growth

Chives can also promote your hair growth and prevent hair loss, thinning, and greying. Chives are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for the synthesis of collagen, the protein that forms the structure of your hair and other tissues. Vitamin C also helps your body absorb iron, which is essential for hair growth and health. 

Chives also contain sulfur, which is a crucial component of keratin, the protein that makes up your hair. Sulfur also helps your hair retain its natural color and prevents premature greying. Chives also contain vitamin B6, which is involved in the metabolism of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins.

Nutritional Profile of Chive Powder

Chive powder is a dehydrated and ground form of chives, which retains most of its nutrients and flavor. Chive powder is low in calories, fat, and sodium but high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals. According to USDA, one tablespoon of chive powder provides about:

How to Use Chives in Diet

Chives are a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, and more. It can also be added to eggs, cheese, potatoes, rice, pasta, bread, and meat to enhance their flavor and nutrition. Chives can be used fresh or dried, but chive powder is a convenient and shelf-stable alternative that can be stored for a long time and used whenever needed. 

Chive powder can be sprinkled on your food as a seasoning or mixed with water, oil, vinegar, or yogurt to make a paste or a sauce. The powder can also be used to make a tea or a decoction by boiling it in water for a few minutes and then straining and drinking the liquid. It can also be used to make a poultice by applying it to the affected area of the skin or hair and then covering it with a cloth or a bandage.

How to Store Dehydrated Chives Powder

Dehydrated chives powder can be stored for a long time if you follow some simple tips to preserve its quality and potency. Here are some tips for storing dry chives powder:

• Store chives powder in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a plastic bag, to prevent moisture and air from entering and spoiling it.

• Store in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from heat, light, and humidity, to prevent oxidation and degradation of its nutrients and flavor.

• Store dehydrated chives powder separately from other spices and herbs to prevent cross-contamination.

• Store powder for up to a year, and check its color, smell, and taste before using it. If it becomes dull, faded, or rotten, discard it and replace it with a fresh batch.

Conclusion

Chives are a nutrient-dense vegetable that belongs to the allium family, along with garlic, onions, leeks, and shallots. Chives have many health benefits, ranging from improving skin and hair to preventing cancer and heart disease. Chives powder is a convenient and versatile way to use this herb, as it can be stored for a long time.

You can use it in various forms and methods for your health and wellness and enjoy its excellent results. Chives powder is a must-have in your natural health regimen, and you should definitely give it a try. However, be aware of the possible side effects and allergic reactions, and use it with caution.

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