Beta vulgaris vs Lamb's Quarters

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Beta vulgaris

Nutritive

Chenopodium album

Nutritive

Description

Biennial plant cultivated for edible roots and leaves, rich in nitrates, betaine and betalain pigments.

Widespread edible wild herb used globally as a nutritive food plant and medicine; high in iron, calcium, and vitamins; used in Ayurveda as Bathua.

Active Compounds

betaine, betalains, nitrates, folate, manganese, potassium, alpha-lipoic acid

rutin, quercetin, oxalic acid, iron, calcium

Traditional Uses

Consumed as food medicine in European and Middle Eastern traditions, Used in North Africa for liver support

Nutritive tonic, Liver conditions, Urinary disorders, Skin diseases

Modern Uses

Athletic performance via nitric oxide, Blood pressure reduction, Liver detoxification, Anti-inflammatory

Nutritional support, Anti-inflammatory activity, Diuretic properties, Hepatoprotective effects

Adult Dosage

Juice: 250-500ml/day; Powder: 3-5g/day

Leaves as food (50-100g daily); seed flour in food

Contraindications

Kidney stones from oxalates, Hemochromatosis, Low blood pressure medication

Kidney stones (oxalates), Gout (purines)

Side Effects

Beeturia pink urine, Kidney stone risk at high intake

High oxalate content, Possible allergic reaction

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E