Cabbage juice is a time-honored home remedy for stomach ulcers, made by juicing raw cabbage leaves and drinking the liquid on an empty stomach. It is rich in glutamine and vitamin U, which may help soothe the stomach lining and support healing. This simple recipe shows you how to prepare fresh cabbage juice at home, with tips for making it taste better and storing it safely.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 lb / 900 g), outer leaves removed
- 1 cup (240 ml) cold water (optional, for thinning)
- 1 small apple, cored (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 lemon, juiced (optional, for flavor)
Instructions
- Wash the cabbage thoroughly under running water. Remove any wilted or damaged outer leaves.
- Cut the cabbage into wedges that fit your juicer’s feed tube. If using a blender, chop the cabbage into roughly 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces.
- Run the cabbage through a juicer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If using a blender, add the chopped cabbage and 1/2 cup (120 ml) of the water, then blend on high until smooth, about 1 minute.
- Strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or nut milk bag to extract the juice. Press firmly to get as much liquid as possible.
- If desired, add the apple or lemon juice to the finished cabbage juice to improve the taste. Stir well.
- Serve immediately over ice, or refrigerate in a sealed glass jar for up to 24 hours. Shake before drinking.
Tips
- Use fresh cabbage: The fresher the cabbage, the better the juice tastes and the more nutrients it retains. Look for firm, heavy heads with crisp leaves.
- Balance the flavor: Cabbage juice can be strong and slightly bitter. Adding apple, carrot, or a splash of lemon juice makes it more palatable without compromising the benefits.
- Drink on an empty stomach: For ulcers, many people find it most effective to drink cabbage juice 20–30 minutes before a meal, up to three times a day. Start with a small amount (about 1/2 cup / 120 ml) to see how your stomach responds.
- Don’t overdo it: Drinking excessive amounts of cabbage juice may cause bloating or gas. Stick to 1–3 cups (240–720 ml) per day and listen to your body.
Serving Suggestions
Drink cabbage juice chilled, ideally in the morning on an empty stomach. You can also sip it between meals as a refreshing, slightly earthy beverage. For a more palatable drink, serve it with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint. Some people like to mix it with other vegetable juices like carrot or cucumber for a milder taste.
Variations
- Apple-Cabbage Juice: Add 1 whole apple (cored) to the juicer along with the cabbage for natural sweetness.
- Carrot-Cabbage Juice: Add 2 medium carrots for a sweeter, earthier flavor and extra beta-carotene.
- Ginger-Cabbage Juice: Add a 1-inch (2.5 cm) piece of fresh ginger to the juicer for a warming, anti-inflammatory kick.
- Red Cabbage Version: Use red cabbage instead of green for a slightly different nutrient profile and a beautiful purple juice.
Storage and Reheating
Cabbage juice is best consumed immediately after making it, as the nutrients degrade quickly. If you must store it, place it in an airtight glass jar and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Shake well before drinking, as separation is natural. Do not freeze cabbage juice, as it will become watery and lose its texture. Reheating is not recommended—drink it cold or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much cabbage juice should I drink for an ulcer?
Most traditional recommendations suggest drinking 1 cup (240 ml) of fresh cabbage juice 2–3 times daily on an empty stomach. Start with a smaller amount, like 1/2 cup (120 ml), and gradually increase if you tolerate it well. Always consult your doctor before using cabbage juice as a treatment for ulcers.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, red cabbage can be used and contains similar beneficial compounds. It has a slightly stronger, earthier flavor and produces a deep purple juice. Both types are fine for this purpose.
Why does my cabbage juice taste so strong?
Cabbage contains sulfur compounds that can give it a sharp, slightly bitter taste. Adding apple, carrot, or lemon juice can help mask the bitterness. You can also dilute it with a little cold water or mix it with other mild juices like cucumber.
Can I make cabbage juice in a blender?
Yes, a blender works well. Simply chop the cabbage, add a little water to help it blend, then strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or nut milk bag to extract the juice. The yield will be slightly less than with a dedicated juicer, but it’s still effective.
Is it safe to drink cabbage juice every day?
For most people, drinking 1–3 cups (240–720 ml) of cabbage juice daily is safe. However, if you have thyroid issues or are taking blood-thinning medication, consult your doctor first, as raw cabbage contains goitrogens and vitamin K, which can interact with certain conditions and medications.
Can I add honey or sugar to cabbage juice?
Yes, you can add a teaspoon of honey or a pinch of sugar to sweeten the juice. However, if you have diabetes or are watching your sugar intake, it’s best to use a natural sweetener like stevia or rely on apple or carrot for sweetness.
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