The name comes from the Italian word for "cabbage sprout" and indeed, broccoli is a relative of cabbage, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower. This deep emerald-green vegetable (which sometimes has a purple tinge) comes in tight clusters of tiny buds that sit on stout, edible stems. Look for broccoli with a deep, strong color green, or green with purple; the buds should be tightly closed and the leaves crisp.

Nutritional Facts

Broccoli, a member of the Cruciferous family, is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as riboflavin, calcium and iron.

Medicinal / Therapeutic Use

Broccoli contains large amounts of vitamin C and beta carotene which are important antioxidants. Consuming foods high in antioxidants can reduce the risk of some forms of cancer and heart disease.

The name comes from the Italian word for "cabbage sprout" and indeed, broccoli is a relative of cabbage, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower. This deep emerald-green vegetable (which sometimes has a purple tinge) comes in tight clusters of tiny buds that sit on stout, edible stems. Look for broccoli with a deep, strong color green, or green with purple; the buds should be tightly closed and the leaves crisp.

Nutritional Facts

Broccoli, a member of the Cruciferous family, is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as riboflavin, calcium and iron.

Medicinal / Therapeutic Use

Broccoli contains large amounts of vitamin C and beta carotene which are important antioxidants. Consuming foods high in antioxidants can reduce the risk of some forms of cancer and heart disease.