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Amaranth can be traced back to the Ancient Greeks, who maintained Amaranth as a sacred symbol of (to) Ephesian Artemis. The herb was also a symbol of immortality, the Greek name actually translating as 'unwithering', and images of the plant were often used to decorate images of the gods as well as tombs.

Considered a tonic by some early cultures such as India, Amaranth was eaten as a vegetable and prepared in a similar manner as spinach, either used fresh or as a stewing herb. Its value as a tonic was so prevalent that invalids were advised to consume it in preference to any other herb or vegetable. The Aztecs and some American Indians used Amaranth as a grain source.

At one point in history, according to Cunningham in his Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Amaranth "was once outlawed by Spanish colonial authorities in Mexico because it was used by Aztecs in their rituals".

Medicinal Use

The properties of Amaranth can vary slightly depending upon the variety. Some have astringent properties, some act as diuretics while others are considered tonics or stimulants. At various points in history, Amaranths have been used to combat snake bites and poisons; to treat internal hemorrhaging or spitting up blood; and to ease menstrual disorders.

Amaranth as a Nutritional Source

While Amaranth is not widely seen as a traditional 'medicine', its value as a nutritional source - and the health benefits that lie therein - must be acknowledged. More and more health food and natural or organic food stores are carrying Amaranth with increasing popularity among health conscious consumers. You can generally find it along the natural grains or natural cereal aisles, with things like puffed wheat.

If you analyze the nutritional value of other grains compared to Amaranth, you can see why Amaranth has experienced such resurgence. For an excellent comparison, visit Nutritional Comparison of Amaranth to Other Grains found at Nu-World Amaranth Inc.

Amaranth is higher in protein than most commonly used grains, which is extremely important for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. Amaranth is also high in fiber, calcium and iron, as well as trace minerals, all of which are important for every diet.

Consider using Amaranth as a gluten-free substitute for flour in breads, pancakes, pastas, breading, and baked goods as well.

Gardening With Amaranth

Amaranth is such a lovely flower that varieties have long been considered flower garden favorites, and are a particular favorite for anyone growing cut flower or especially, dried flower gardens. Some varieties form a small to medium sized globe shaped flower reminiscent of a clover flower, but in vivid colors which hold true after drying. Other varieties form tall colorful spires that are wonderful for arrangements. As the flowers contain very little moisture, they can be dried easily with minimum concern for molding, mildew or breakage.

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