crucímeras

Cruciferas is a term used to describe plants belonging to the family Brassicaceae, also known as Cruciferae or the mustard family. This family is a large and diverse group of flowering plants found throughout the world. They are characterized by their four-petaled flowers, which are often arranged in a cross shape, giving the family its name. The name "cruciferous" comes from the Latin word "crucifer," meaning "cross-bearer," referring to the cruciform arrangement of the petals.

Members of the Brassicaceae family are economically important, providing many common food crops. Among these are vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, and bok choy. Other well-known cruciferous plants include mustard greens, radishes, turnips, and watercress. Many ornamental plants, like alyssum and stocks, also belong to this family. The seeds of some cruciferous plants are used to produce culinary oils and spices, such as mustard seed and rapeseed oil (canola oil).

The distinctive flavor of many cruciferous vegetables, often described as pungent or slightly bitter, is due to the presence of sulfur-containing compounds called glucosinolates. These compounds are broken down into isothiocyanates when the plant tissue is damaged, contributing to both the flavor and aroma. While some people find these flavors strong, they are also associated with potential health benefits due to the presence of antioxidants and other beneficial phytonutrients. Research has explored the potential role of cruciferous vegetables in disease prevention, particularly in relation to cancer.