The health benefits of chives

Would you believe me if I tell you that my 7-year old twins love chive leaves? Yes, they do. Do not ask me how and the why because I do not know the answers. I only know that I am glad they do and I have a large clump of chives in my garden, some of which I transfer to a pot for indoors come wintertime. Chives belong to the onion (Allium) family, most probably among the smallest members. Other more well-known members are garlic and leek. Its Latin name is Allium schoenoprasum.

Chives are used as a condiment for a variety of dishes. They are also used as decorations and toppings for salads and cold dishes.

According to iloveindia.com, chives have many health benefits, namely:

• Chives, when finely chopped and consumed with food, are said to aid digestion and stimulate appetite.
• Consumption of chives has been found to be beneficial for the respiratory system of an individual.
• It has been seen that chives can help the body in digesting fatty foods, such as cheese.
• For those suffering from tiredness and fatigue, consuming chives can serve to be a good remedy.
• Since chives have been known to have diuretic properties, they can reduce obesity and fluid retention.
• Researches have revealed the result that chives help reduce the risk of prostate cancer, by as much as 50 percent.
• Chives have been found to comprise of mild anti-inflammatory properties.
• The oil of Chinese chives is believed to help heal bruises and kill germs in the intestines.

Here is how my boys like their chives:

• As extra sandwich flavoring. I cut the raw chive leaves into small pieces and sprinkle all over cheese or sausage spread.
• As topping on their favorite fried rice-vegetable dish.
• As garnish for salads.
• As it is. Would you believe they’d nibble on a chive stalk like they’d nibble on a lolly?

I oveindia.com also gives us info on the nutrition content of chives. 100 grams of chives contains:

But chives are not only for eating. They can also serve as nice ornamental plant with purple flowers and they serve as natural pest control in your garden.