WaterCress seeds 100g

Although classical hadith literature does not contain an extensive modern pharmacopoeia entry naming the seed exactly as we use it today, Islamic medical authors (e.g., Ibn al-Qayyim and other commentators) identify ath-thuffāʼ / al-ḥurf / ar-rashād (cress/garden cress) as a medicinal seed recommended for a range of conditions: to warm and soften the belly, reduce spleen inflammation when combined with honey, strengthen the hair, support digestion and as a remedy for respiratory phlegm. These uses are repeatedly cited in works of Tibb an-Nabawi and traditional herbals.

Common traditional uses

Digestive tonic and carminative (relieves bloating, stimulates appetite)

Blood purifier and general tonic

Hair tonic (juice or oil applied to scalp for hair loss)

Aphrodisiac and fertility support (seeds used to strengthen reproductive functions)

Respiratory expectorant (helps clear mucus)

Scientific profile & key benefits

Modern research — including in-vitro, animal and some human studies — supports several of the traditional claims about garden cress seeds (Lepidium sativum). Below are the principal scientifically supported properties and mechanisms.

1. Nutrient-dense (micronutrients + phytochemicals)

Garden cress seeds contain essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins (A, C, E), minerals (iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium), and a variety of bioactive phytochemicals including flavonoids, phenolic acids and glucosinolates. This composition partly explains their broad nutritional and therapeutic effects.

2. Strong antioxidant activity

Extracts and seed mucilage show potent antioxidant activity in lab assays and animal models — reducing oxidative markers and protecting tissues from free-radical damage. This underpins protective effects reported for the liver, brain and other organs.

3. Anti-inflammatory & immunomodulatory effects

Preclinical studies report reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1) and markers like iNOS and NO, suggesting garden cress may dampen harmful inflammation. Animal and in-vitro evidence supports potential uses in inflammatory conditions and as an adjunct antioxidant/anti-inflammatory.

4. Hepato- and cardio-protective actions

Several animal studies show garden cress extracts can protect the liver from toxins (hepatoprotective), improve lipid parameters, and support cardiovascular markers — likely via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways.

5. Reproductive & fertility effects (experimental evidence)

Animal and in-vitro research indicates garden cress extracts may positively affect sperm function (improved acrosome reaction and motility in some studies), and modulate reproductive hormones in animal models — which aligns with its traditional categorization as fertility-supporting. Human evidence remains limited and preliminary.

6. Antimicrobial & anticancer signals (preclinical)

Laboratory studies report antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria and antiproliferative/ pro-apoptotic effects in some cancer cell lines — promising early data but requiring more clinical research.

Practical uses & simple preparations (website “how to use”)

Seed infusion (tea): Crush ½–1 teaspoon of seeds, steep 8–10 minutes in hot water; strain and drink 1 cup daily for digestion or mild respiratory congestion.

Powder (culinary): Dry-grind seeds; add ¼–½ teaspoon to smoothies, yogurt or porridge for a nutrient boost.

Oil & hair application: Seed oil or powdered seed mixed with a carrier oil can be massaged into the scalp (traditionally used for hair loss).

Topical poultice: Crushed seeds mixed with honey applied short-term to inflamed spots (test on small skin area first).