During winter days, when the blanket of greenery spreads over the fields, a special green vegetable called Bathua grows amidst it. It is considered a symbol of strength in the Vindhya region and tribal areas of Madhya Pradesh.
Tribal families make it an essential part of the diet. Whatever you make like Dal Bathua, Paranthas, Raita, both its taste and health are considered excellent.
Important part of tribal community’s diet
Tribal families of Sidhi district have been considering Bathua as an essential winter vegetable for generations. According to him, it is not just ordinary greens but a nutritious food that increases energy and immunity. Bathua, which grows naturally in the fields along with wheat, gram and peas, is considered no less than a boon.
Storehouse of nutrition: Ayurveda explains its medicinal properties
Ayurvedic experts say that Vitamin A, C, calcium, iron and fiber are found in large quantities in Bathua. Due to these nutrients it strengthens the body in many ways. It strengthens bones and removes weakness. Increases immunity, which protects against winter diseases. Provides relief from stomach problems, gas and constipation. It is also considered beneficial in urine infection. In old Ayurvedic books, Bathua has been called a blood purifier i.e. blood purifier and a source of energy.
Why is it very beneficial for women?
Bathua is especially important for women, because the iron present in it provides relief from weakness and fatigue during menstruation. Its regular consumption can also reduce symptoms like anemia. Including it in the diet in winter removes nutritional deficiency in women and the body remains more energetic.
50-60 rupees per kg in the market, but free in the fields
Vegetable vendor Somnath Gupta of Sidhi city says that Bathua grows on its own in the fields without sowing, but in the city its price reaches Rs 50-60 per kg. Knowing its benefits, people buy it even at an expensive price. The village women pluck it from the fields and sell it in the market, which also gives them additional income. It is also proving beneficial for the local economy.
Agriculture department is also increasing encouragement to farming
Considering the nutritional value of Bathua in the tribal areas of Vindhya, the Agriculture Department has started awareness campaigns to encourage its cultivation. Experts believe that desi greens like Bathua are much more nutritious, pure and affordable than modern expensive “superfoods”.
The biggest gift of winter – both health and taste, Bathua is a gift from the land of Vindhya, which not only fills the stomach but also provides essential nutrition to the body. In the cold of winter, this green vegetable provides the body with warmth, strength and a natural shield to protect against diseases.