The History of Microgreens: From Ancient times to Modern day

Microgreens have become increasingly popular in recent years, as people seek out healthy and sustainable food sources. But did you know that the history of microgreens dates back thousands of years? From ancient civilizations to modern-day farms, microgreens have been used for their nutritional and medicinal properties throughout human history.

The ancient Egyptians were one of the first civilizations to cultivate microgreens, using them for both culinary and medicinal purposes. They believed that microgreens had healing properties and used them to treat a variety of ailments, from indigestion to colds and flu. The ancient Greeks and Romans also valued microgreens for their nutritional benefits and often ate them as part of their daily diet.

During the Middle Ages, monasteries and gardens across Europe began to cultivate microgreens as part of their medicinal herb gardens. Microgreens were used to treat a range of health conditions, from toothaches to digestive problems. The popularity of microgreens continued to grow throughout the Renaissance and into the early modern period, as people began to appreciate the taste and health benefits of these tiny plants.

In the 20th century, the use of microgreens began to decline as industrialized farming practices took hold. However, in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in microgreens, driven by the growing awareness of the importance of healthy and sustainable food sources. Today, microgreens can be found in grocery stores, farmers' markets, and restaurants across the world.

So, what exactly are microgreens? Microgreens are young plants that are harvested after just a few weeks of growth. They are typically grown in soil or hydroponically and can be harvested when they are just one to three inches tall. Microgreens come in a wide variety of colors and flavors, ranging from spicy and tangy to sweet and nutty.

Microgreens are packed with nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In fact, some studies have found that microgreens can contain up to 40 times the amount of nutrients as their mature counterparts. Microgreens are also environmentally sustainable, requiring less water and space to grow than traditional crops.

In conclusion, the history of microgreens is long and rich, dating back to ancient times when they were used for their medicinal properties. Today, microgreens are appreciated for their taste, nutritional value, and sustainability. Whether you're a farmer, chef, or health enthusiast, microgreens are a fascinating and valuable part of our food system. If you're interested visit our microgreen subscription page to get microgreens delivered to your door every week!