Grape leaves are a vital part of the diet in many countries—especially in Bulgaria, Greece, Albania, France, and Italy—as well as in traditional medicine.
People are well aware of how beneficial these leaves are, and how they can be used not just early in the season, but even long after the grapes have been harvested.
Grape Leaves: A Natural Wonder
They’re packed with vitamins (A, C, and B-complex) and essential minerals, especially potassium, fiber, folic acid, and a high level of antioxidants.
Grape leaves have anti-cancer properties, thanks to their unique combination of nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants.
They strengthen the immune system and help protect against viral and bacterial infections.
They improve circulation, reduce high blood pressure, and help prevent the hardening of blood vessels.
They contain valuable resveratrol—not only found in grapes but also in the leaves—which is especially appreciated by women for its anti-aging effects.
Grape leaves cleanse the body of waste, act as a strong diuretic, and also have a mild laxative effect.
They help flush out the kidneys, intestines, and bladder.
Grape Leaves Help with Varicose Veins
Grape leaf poultices are excellent for relieving tired, aching legs.
They’ve long been used as a natural remedy for constipation and poor digestion.
They also help clean out the kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract.
A Versatile Addition to Meals
Grape leaves can be eaten when young and tender—they have a flavor similar to spinach.
Older leaves can be used like cabbage, perfect for wrapping ground meat or rice, or even as a substitute for wheat-based wraps like pancakes.
How to Use Grape Leaves for Various Ailments
In addition to eating them in your favorite dishes, grape leaves can be made into tea from dried leaves, or used in compresses and infusions.
Compresses are prepared similarly to cabbage ones—lightly crush the leaves to break the veins, then place them over varicose veins or painful areas.
Tea made from dried grape leaves can help with the flu and colds. Use 2 teaspoons of dried leaves.
Drinking grape leaf tea regularly may help prevent serious illnesses like diabetes and high blood pressure, stimulate bowel activity, and protect the liver.
Drink this tea at least once a day during flu season, and you’ll have less to worry about catching something.
Infusions made from grape leaves can also help with skin conditions—reducing irritation, swelling, redness, and itching.
Add them to your bath to help with various types of dermatitis.
Grape Leaf Poultice for Knee Pain
Place around 30 grape leaves into 500 ml (about 2 cups) of water, cover, and boil for 15 minutes.
Soak a towel in the hot liquid, place the leaves on it, fold the towel, and apply the hot compress to your knee.
Cover with plastic wrap and wrap with a warm cloth. Leave the compress on overnight and repeat if needed.
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