Keisha Shakespeare-Blackmore, Staff Reporter

It is white with green shades and looks just like the regular Christmas favourite. It may not be as popular as the red variety, but is just as flavourful. It can be grown in any part of the island, but has not been seen around for a while.

However, Food met Asrick Fisher, farm manager at Edwards Dairy in Hanover, who grows it in his back garden. He said he discovered the plant by accident. He had asked his stepfather to purchase some lychee plants for him, but also received 12 seedlings of white sorrel. Fisher said it was the first time he'd seen it, but knew of it through a television feature.

Fisher planted the seedlings, but only one survived. From that one seedling sprouted two squares of white sorrel. He said it has fascinated everyone he has introduced it to. He pointed out that it does not need much care. "Just plant, water and let it grow. It yields more than the red variety and basically tastes the same to me."

When brewed, it is almost transparent in colour (like white lemonade), unlike the red variety that becomes blood red because it contains anthyocynins (red pigment). Though it does not contain anthyocynins (that gives the red colour), it has many beneficial properties. It contains some amount of protein, mineral, calcium, phosphate, iron, vitamins, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, ascorbic acids (Vitamin C) and quite a number of amino acids.

Limited Research

Valero Wynter, product development officer at the Scientific Research Council in Kingston, said there has been limited research done on white sorrel. However, it has some medicinal properties, but not as much as the red. He notes that the Northern Caribbean University in Manchester is doing extensive research on sorrel. The institution's research proves that it has anti-cancer properties that are effective in the fight against certain breast cancers. He further stated that it has many medicinal properties. But one of its major benefits is that it helps control high blood pressure.

White sorrel contains anti-hypertensive properties that prevent a build-up of clots in the blood vessels. Also, it is regarded as a diuretic that assists with bladder functions and flushing the kidneys. It is also effective against worms, acts as an anti-bacterial inhibitor and decreases the rate of alcohol absorption.