🌱 Botanical Information -

  • Scientific name: Daucus carota subsp. sativus
  • Family: Apiaceae (same as celery, parsley, coriander, fennel, cumin)
  • Type: Root vegetable, biennial plant (cultivated as annual)
  • Origin: Central Asia (Afghanistan region), domesticated over 1,000 years ago
  • Plant structure:
  • Taproot: fleshy, edible part (orange, red, purple, yellow, white varieties)
  • Leaves: feathery, green, aromatic
  • Flowers: small white umbels (appear in second year if not harvested)

Carrots are versatile and used in both sweet and savory dishes.

  • Forms: Raw, boiled, steamed, roasted, juiced, pickled, grated, pureed, or made into flour.
  • Cuisines:
  • Indian: Gajar ka halwa, pickles, salads, soups
  • Western: Carrot cake, roasted carrots, soups, stews, juices
  • Asian: Stir-fries, kimchi, salads, rolls
  • Snacks: Fresh sticks, smoothies, mixed juices
  1. Rich in Antioxidants
  • High in beta-carotene (precursor of vitamin A) → supports vision and skin health
  • Contains lutein, zeaxanthin → protect against age-related eye issues

  1. Eye Health
  • Vitamin A prevents night blindness
  • Reduces risk of macular degeneration

  1. Digestive Health
  • Good source of dietary fiber → improves digestion, prevents constipation

  1. Heart Health
  • Fiber + antioxidants reduce cholesterol
  • Potassium regulates blood pressure

  1. Cancer Prevention
  • Carotenoids may protect against certain cancers (lung, colorectal)

  1. Skin & Immunity
  • Vitamin C boosts immunity
  • Carrot juice often used for glowing skin and wound healing
  • Calories: ~41 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Protein: 0.9 g
  • Fat: 0.2 g
  • Fiber: 2.8 g
  • Rich in Vitamin A (334% of daily value), Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Potassium, Biotin, Vitamin B6