Strawberry: did you know that…

The strawberry originated in France and has very ancient roots: the first cultivated variety dates back to the early 18th century.
It belongs to the Rosaceae family, and the genus includes about 12 species, of which only two grow wild in Italy.

Strawberries thrive in temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere, the Andes, and some islands in the Southern Hemisphere. Its scientific name is Fragraria, derived from the Latin word fragrans (fragrant), due to the intense aroma released by its fruits, especially those that grow wild in the woods. Blooming can occur in different seasons, depending on the species and varieties.

The strawberry boasts numerous health benefits: first and foremost, it has an extremely high antioxidant power, 20 times greater than that of other foods, and a higher vitamin C content than citrus fruits. This is why strawberries rank high in the special list compiled by the USDA of foods that help maintain youthfulness. But that’s not all: they are also rich in calcium, iron, and magnesium, and are recommended for those suffering from rheumatism and colds. Additionally, they are particularly effective in combating cholesterol.

Strawberries are also high in phosphorus and are used for their laxative, diuretic, and purifying properties. They are good sources of ellagic acid, an effective anti-cancer compound. Moreover, strawberries are refreshing, diuretic, detoxifying, and purifying. Lastly, they contain xylitol, a sweet substance that prevents the formation of dental plaque and kills the germs responsible for bad breath.