Unusual But Nutrient-Rich Plants

Take a dive into a list of names that you probably didn’t read or hear about before but are nutrient-rich plants, some more than the daily greens you consume. The amazing part of this list is that all of the mentioned plants are hydroponic and you can grow yours with your indoor gardening set-up. It is recommended that you grow these in medium to large-sized indoor planters, for example, Herbstation, to have the best results and take advantage of the plants.

• Spirulina: A form of blue-green algae called spirulina is frequently offered as a nutritional supplement. It belongs to the cyanobacterium class of photosynthetic bacteria, which may also create oxygen. Spirulina is frequently referred to as a "superfood" due to its abundance of vitamins, minerals, and proteins. It can be grown in a hydroponic system and is often used as a dietary supplement. The high protein content of spirulina is one of its most remarkable characteristics. It has a protein content of between 57% and 70%, which is significantly more than the majority of plant-based proteins. The necessary amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins, are also abundant in spirulina. In addition to being high in antioxidants, spirulina also contains phycocyanin, a blue pigment that gives the food its distinctive hue. Antioxidants aid in defending the body from the harm done by free radicals, which can hasten the onset of chronic diseases. It's important to note that while spirulina is generally considered safe for consumption, people who have a seafood allergy should avoid it as it is a type of blue-green algae, which is a type of seaweed. Spirulina should not be consumed by those who have phenylketonuria (PKU), a hereditary condition that affects how phenylalanine, a protein building block, is metabolized. 
• Moringa: Tropical trees like the moringa are indigenous to regions of Africa and Asia. Due to its numerous therapeutic and dietary benefits, it is also known as the "Miracle Tree" or the "Drumstick Tree." The moringa tree produces edible leaves, seed pods, and seeds that are frequently utilised in traditional medicine and as a food source. The leaves of the moringa tree can be grown hydroponically and are often used in supplements and teas. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are among the many nutrients found in moringa. It contains significant amounts of vitamin C, which is necessary for maintaining a strong immune system, and vitamin A, which is essential for preserving good vision and skin. The necessary amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins, are also abundant in them. The green pigment present in plants, chlorophyll, which is essential for photosynthesis, can also be found in moringa leaves. The liver and kidneys may benefit from chlorophyll's anti-inflammatory qualities, which are also thought to boost overall health. As it has not been established that moringa leaves are safe for these populations, it is crucial to stress that pregnant and nursing women should avoid taking them. Additionally, pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), a poisonous substance found in trace concentrations in moringa leaves that can be dangerous if ingested in large quantities, should always be used sparingly.
• Wheatgrass: A type of grass that is high in vitamins and minerals, including chlorophyll, iron, and vitamins A, C, and E. It can be grown hydroponically and is often juiced or added to smoothies. It is also a great source of minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium, as well as vitamins like vitamins A, C, and E. It also includes a lot of enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), an antioxidant enzyme that aids in preventing the body from being harmed by free radicals. It is a good source of antioxidants that help shield the body from harm from free radicals. Juice prepared by using a juicer to extract the juice from wheatgrass leaves is frequently used to consume wheatgrass. Additionally, it is available as a powder that may be added to food, juice, or smoothies. In the form of tablets or capsules, wheatgrass is also used by some people as a nutritional supplement. Furthermore, it's vital to keep in mind that ingesting excessive quantities of wheatgrass juice or supplements may result in gastrointestinal problems like bloating, gas, and an upset stomach, so it's always advised to start small and work your way up to greater volumes.
• Sea vegetables: Such as Kelp, Dulse, and Nori, are high in minerals and vitamins, including iodine, potassium, and iron. They can be grown hydroponically and used as a food supplement. In shallow coastal waters, kelp, a form of seaweed, can be found. Laminaria and Macrocystis are the kelp species that are most frequently consumed as food and supplements out of all the species that exist. The nutrient-rich food kelp is frequently utilised in traditional medicine and as a food source. Seaweed known as dulse can be found in the North Atlantic and North Pacific seas' coastal waters. It is a red alga and is renowned for its chewy texture and rich, savory flavor. In Ireland and Iceland, it has long been used as food and medicine. In Japanese cooking, nori, a form of seaweed, is frequently used, especially in sushi rolls. Purple laver, a form of red algae, is frequently observed in the shallow waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Before using the seaweed in cooking, it is first dried and then flattened into thin sheets. As a food, nori is generally considered safe for ingestion. However, it is necessary to be aware of the nori's origin and to ensure that it is responsibly harvested and free of pollutants and heavy metals. Nori is also available as a supplement in the form of capsules, pills, and powder. It is always advised to speak with a healthcare provider before using sea vegetable supplements and to use it in moderation because similar to other seaweed products, consuming large amounts of nori or nori supplements may cause adverse effects like goitre, which is an enlarged thyroid gland, or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), due to its high iodine content.
• Microgreens: Young, edible plants called microgreens are normally harvested 7 to 14 days after germination, when the first genuine leaves start to develop. They are frequently used as a garnish or as an ingredient in salads, sandwiches, and other cuisines. They are grown from the seeds of many vegetables, herbs, and other plants. The strong flavour, delicate texture, and high nutritional value of microgreens are well-known. They contain exceptionally high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. For instance, microgreens of broccoli, radish, and pea frequently include high concentrations of vitamins C and E as well as other nutrients. Vitamin K and A concentrations in cress, arugula, and basil microgreens are particularly high. They can be grown hydroponically and used as salad greens and garnishes. It's essential to recognize that microgreens are distinct from sprouts, which are germination-stage seeds that are eaten before they grow leaves. Microgreens are more nutrient-dense since they are grown for a longer time and have more developed leaves and stems.Additionally, microgreens should be properly cleaned before eating because the seeds may have come into contact with pesticides or other toxins. There are countless nutrient-rich plants that can be cultivated hydroponically; these are just a few examples. Finding plants that can grow hydroponically and flourish in the circumstances offered by a hydroponic system is the key.