What is Water Caltrop? Nutritional Value of Water Caltrop
Water caltrop, also known as water chestnut, buffalo nut, bat nut, or devil pod, has the scientific name Trapa bicornis L.. Its appearance is quite unique, with two sharp upward-pointing horns. When ripe, the shell turns dark brown. The flesh inside is white and crunchy when raw but becomes soft and sweet after boiling.
Water caltrop is a nutrient-rich food. In every 100 grams, it contains:
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Calories: 97
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Fat: 0.1 g
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Carbohydrates: 23.9 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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Protein: 2 g
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Sodium: 17% of the daily recommended intake
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Manganese: 17% of the daily recommended intake
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Vitamin B6: 16% of the daily recommended intake
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Vitamin B2: 12% of the daily recommended intake
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Vitamin C: 8% of the daily recommended intake
1. Boosts the immune system
Water caltrop is rich in vitamin C and vitamin B2, which help strengthen immunity, improve resistance, and protect the body from common illnesses such as colds and flu.
2. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects
Water caltrop contains ferulic acid, which prevents oxidative stress and reduces inflammation. Its high vitamin C content also contributes to antibacterial properties, especially in combating urinary tract infections.
3. Supports treatment of eczema
Eczema causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin with red rashes. Thanks to its strong antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties, water caltrop can help alleviate eczema symptoms.
4. Relieves flu and expels phlegm
Flu is common during seasonal changes or when the immune system is weakened. With its antioxidants and vitamin C, water caltrop helps strengthen resistance, reduce inflammation, soothe sore throats, ease coughing, and clear excess mucus from the respiratory tract.
5. Aids in gastric ulcer treatment
Rich in vitamin C and ferulic acid, water caltrop helps reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and may support the healing of gastric and duodenal ulcers.
6. Detoxifies and protects the liver
According to traditional medicine, water caltrop has cooling properties, helps detoxify the body, reduces inflammation, and protects the liver from heat and toxins.
7. Helps treat diarrhea
Water caltrop replenishes lost electrolytes and nutrients during diarrhea due to its carbohydrate, vitamin, and mineral content. Its dietary fiber also nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, aiding recovery.
8. Cancer prevention
The strong antioxidant properties of vitamin C and ferulic acid may inhibit the growth of cancer cells, particularly thyroid and skin cancers.
9. Alleviates alcohol and heat intoxication
In traditional medicine, raw water caltrop is used to reduce alcohol toxicity, quench thirst, and relieve heatstroke.
10. Treats prickly heat (heat rash)
Thanks to its cooling and detoxifying effects, raw water caltrop can relieve skin irritation, prickly heat, and rashes caused by hot, humid weather.
11. Helps treat bleeding hemorrhoids
In traditional medicine, water caltrop is considered sweet, slightly astringent, and beneficial for the spleen. It reduces pain, inflammation, and swelling, helping relieve bleeding hemorrhoids.
12. Side effects of excessive consumption
Since water caltrop has a cooling nature, overconsumption may cause bloating, indigestion, and diarrhea. People with weak digestive systems or frequent diarrhea should avoid eating it raw.