Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) is a nutrient-dense aquatic plant packed with glucosinolates (predominantly nasturtiin), iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, K. When watercress is chewed, nasturtiin is enzymatically converted into phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC)—a powerful compound clinically shown to support liver Phase II detoxification and inhibit inflammatory enzymes. It also acts as a natural stimulating diuretic and respiratory expectorant.
Educational information only — never stop or change a prescribed medication without talking to your prescriber first.
Generally exceptionally safe as food. Do not consume medicinal doses in large quantities if you suffer from active stomach ulcers or inflammatory kidney disease. Due to its high vitamin K content, consult a physician if you are taking blood-thinning medications like Warfarin.
Evidence level: Moderate
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