Tag: Sissoo spinach

Malabar spinach, often called poor man's spinach, can provide fresh, edible greens even during sweltering summer months when true spinach would have long since bolted. This heat-loving, perennial vine is used for a variety of culinary purposes, from thickening soups and stews to being eaten raw in salads. Its uses also extend beyond the kitchen, serving as a robust groundcover and an attractive ornamental plant in gardens.

According to a 2022 study published by Universiti Putra Malaysia, true spinach (*Spinacia oleracea*) and Brazilian spinach (*Alternanthera sissoo*) belong to different genera within the same plant family, meaning they are distant botanical relatives. Answering the question, **'What is the difference between spinach and Brazilian spinach?'**, is essential for understanding their unique properties and how best to use them in a healthy diet.

Originally from South America, Sissoo spinach (*Alternanthera sissoo*) is a tropical perennial gaining attention for its impressive health benefits and year-round robust growth. But is sissoo spinach good for you, and how does it truly compare to its more common, temperate-loving counterparts?

While popular in tropical climates, the answer to “Can you eat Brazilian spinach raw?” is nuanced, as it contains oxalates, similar to common temperate spinach varieties. It is generally considered safe to consume in small, raw quantities, particularly the young, tender leaves. However, the approach to consuming this perennial green should be mindful of its nutritional profile and potential antinutrients.