🌿🌊 Crown Daisy + Seaweed: A Perfect Pairing for Taste and Nutrition
In the world of smart eating, it's not just about individual superfoods — it's about how well they work together. One of the most underrated but nutritionally powerful pairings is crown daisy (ssukgat) and seaweed (miyeok).
✅ What Is Crown Daisy (Ssukgat)?
Crown daisy (쑥갓), known as "ssukgat" in Korean, is a leafy green herb with a slightly bitter, floral flavor that’s often used in Korean hot pots and soups.
Top benefits of crown daisy:
- High in chlorophyll and carotenoids
- Rich in vitamin A, C, and potassium
- Natural detoxifier and diuretic
- Improves digestion and reduces inflammation
- Supports eye health and skin regeneration
✅ What Makes Seaweed (Miyeok) So Nutritious?
Seaweed (미역, miyeok) is a mineral-rich superfood from the sea, widely used in Korean cuisine — especially in postpartum recovery and birthday soups.
Top benefits of seaweed:
- Excellent source of iodine, calcium, and magnesium
- Supports thyroid function and metabolism
- Contains fucoidan, a compound with anti-cancer properties
- High in fiber and aids in digestion
- Promotes healthy skin and hair
🌟 Why Crown Daisy + Seaweed Is a Perfect Match
🧠 Brain & Nervous System Support
- Seaweed provides iodine, essential for brain development and mood balance
- Crown daisy contains potassium and antioxidants, which help calm nerves
→ Together, they may enhance focus, memory, and emotional stability
💧 Gentle Detox & Hydration
- Crown daisy has mild diuretic properties, helping to flush toxins
- Seaweed rehydrates and remineralizes the body
→ This combo gently supports the liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system
💪 Strong Bones & Skin
- Seaweed supplies calcium and magnesium
- Crown daisy offers vitamin K and C for collagen production
→ A natural anti-aging combo that strengthens skin and bones
🦠 Gut Health & Anti-Inflammatory Effects
- Fiber and fucoidan in seaweed support gut flora
- Crown daisy helps reduce inflammatory markers
→ Beneficial for digestion, immunity, and autoimmune conditions
🥘 Best Ways to Eat Crown Daisy + Seaweed Together
✅ 1. Ssukgat-Miyeok Soup
- Combine dried miyeok and fresh ssukgat in anchovy broth
- Add garlic, soy sauce, and a few drops of sesame oil
- Light, fragrant, and deeply nourishing
✅ 2. Warm Seaweed & Crown Daisy Salad
- Blanch both ingredients and cool quickly in ice water
- Toss with vinegar, garlic, sesame oil, and sesame seeds
- Great as a side dish or detox meal
✅ 3. Crown Daisy Hot Pot with Seaweed
- Add fresh crown daisy to a seafood or beef hot pot
- Include rehydrated seaweed strips for texture and depth
- Top with tofu and chili flakes for a spicy finish
✅ 4. Rice Bowl with Seaweed & Ssukgat
- Mix steamed rice with chopped ssukgat and roasted seaweed flakes
- Drizzle with soy sauce and top with a fried egg
- A satisfying, nutrient-dense meal
📊 Nutrient Snapshot (per 100g each)
| Nutrient | Crown Daisy 🌿 | Seaweed (Miyeok) 🌊 |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 30 kcal | 45 kcal |
| Vitamin A | 2500 IU | 116 IU |
| Vitamin C | 41 mg | 3 mg |
| Calcium | 75 mg | 170 mg |
| Iodine | ❌ Trace | ✔️ High |
💡 Tip: Eat them together 2–3 times per week to support long-term health.
⚠️ When to Be Cautious
- People with thyroid disorders should moderate seaweed intake
- Ssukgat may interact with blood pressure medication
- Always wash and soak seaweed properly to reduce sodium content
✅ Final Thoughts: A Harmonious Pair for Body & Mind
Crown daisy and seaweed are not just flavorful — they’re functional. This pairing provides essential nutrients, supports detox and digestion, and balances both your nervous system and metabolism.
✔️ Naturally low in calories
✔️ Rich in fiber and antioxidants
✔️ Ideal for soups, hot pots, and salads
✔️ Time-tested in traditional Korean cuisine