Crystal Ice Plant

In recent years, the Crystal Ice Plant has seen a significant surge in popularity among health enthusiasts. This is due to its abundance of numerous health benefits, as well as its uniquely delicious taste and texture, earning it the moniker the gem of the vegetable world. Today, Rimping Supermarket invites you to delve into the fascinating story of this remarkable vegetable.

Origins and Natural Beauty

The origin of the Crystal Ice Plant is said to be from South Africa, particularly the Namib Desert region, the Sinai Peninsula (Egypt), and Southern Europe. The first person to discover the Crystal Ice Plant reportedly found it mixed with sand and began cultivating it as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful appearance, resembling constant ice crystals covering its surface. However, over time, this plant became widely consumed in those regions as research revealed its numerous benefits.

The Crystal Ice Plant has the scientific name Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L. It is a low-growing, succulent plant with relatively thick leaves. Its taste is slightly salty, yet it has no pungent odor. It can be used in a variety of dishes, both Thai and international. It is commonly enjoyed with pasta, made into a sesame oil salad, deep-fried as tempura-style vegetables, or even paired with Som Tum (papaya salad) like sea grapes.

The Secret of Bladder Cells

The Crystal Ice Plant also possesses a special feature: its leaves contain a large number of unique cells called Bladder Cells. These cells are responsible for storing nutrients, minerals, and water, which helps the plant withstand arid conditions. Furthermore, Bladder Cells are what make the leaves of the Crystal Ice Plant appear as if they are covered with tiny ice crystals, giving it its distinctive and evocative name.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

In terms of nutritional value, the Crystal Ice Plant is considered a highly nutritious plant, superior to many other green leafy vegetables. It is rich in:

• Calcium and Potassium: Essential for bone strength and blood pressure regulation.
• Beta-carotene and Vitamin A: Beneficial for eye health.
• Vitamin K and Vitamin C: Boost immunity and skin health.
• Vitamins B1, B2, B6, B9: Aid in energy metabolism and nervous system function.
• Various antioxidants: Such as Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), which helps protect the skin from damage by UVC radiation (many sunscreens use extracts from this plant as an ingredient).
  
  Additionally, it possesses antimicrobial properties, helps prevent heart disease, fights diabetes, accelerates metabolism, and supports eye health, truly making it a superfood for well-being.
  
  Current Spread and Popularity
  Currently, the Crystal Ice Plant is gaining popularity in many countries, including India, the United States, Australia, and Germany. In Asia, it is particularly popular in Japan, where it is known as Barafu (バラフ). In Thailand, it has only recently gained popularity and its cultivation is becoming more widespread.