Botanical Overview
Chenopodium quinoa belongs to the Chenopodiaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. This species belongs to the Chenopodiaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
General Description
It is an herbaceous annual plant grown as a crop primarily for its edible seeds; the seeds are high in protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins and dietary minerals especially potassium and magnesium in amounts greater than in many grains. Quinoa is not a grass but rather a pseudocereal botanically related to spinach and amaranth, and originated in the Andean region of northwestern South America. It was first used to feed livestock 5,200–7,000 years ago, and for human consumption 3,000–4,000 years ago in the Lake Titicaca basin of Bolivia and Peru.
Family Context
The Chenopodiaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Epazote — 45 documented uses
- Lambsquarter — 20 documented uses
- Spinach — 18 documented uses
- Beet — 15 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Chenopodium quinoa has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Estonia, and others.
Traditional Uses
Chenopodium quinoa has been traditionally used for digestive health.
Digestive health.
- Vermifuge
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 26 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Flavonoid: antioxidant compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage
- Saponin: soap-like compounds with immune-modulating activity