The carrot is a herbaceous plant with cut leaves, white flowers and a pointed root, juicy and edible, belonging to the Umbelliferae family (Umbelliferae), and its botanical name is Daucus carota var . sativa . It is the most important and most consumed vegetable in the family.
The carrot is a cold climate plant, but also cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, especially at high altitudes. Its cultivation dates from ancient times, it is a species native to central Asia, and from there it spread to Europe, the Mediterranean region. During its spread, it interbred with local wild types.
The wild variety forms a hard and woody root not suitable for consumption. The cultivated is, on the contrary, a very appreciated vegetable. The carrot is a biennial plant, during the first year a rosette of few leaves and the root forms. After a period of rest, there is a short stem on which the flowers form during the second growing season.
The carrot crop has experienced significant growth in recent years, both in area and in production, as it is one of the most widely produced vegetables in the world. Asia is the largest producer followed by Europe and the US
There are 60 varieties of carrots, all of them are of good quality, some are more preferred than others for their yield and good appearance and in several regions they prefer the small, medium or long carrot. The cultivated types are divided into two groups: oriental (or Asian) carrots, with roots that are mainly purple and yellow in color; and western carrots, with mainly orange roots.
The carrot is rich in beta carotenes (source of vitamin A), which give the characteristic orange color to its root. It is also rich in vitamin E and some B complex vitamins, especially B3 or niacin, and folic acid. Water is the most abundant component in this vegetable, followed by carbohydrates. As for minerals, their contribution of potassium, calcium, phosphorus and iodine is important.
The carrot provides the body with nutrients, does not contain fat, helps digestion and ensures that the body works properly and remains healthy. In addition, it is a good source of vitamins and an effective antioxidant, it is recommended to consume it regularly to prevent and reduce the risk of cardiovascular, degenerative and cancer diseases. It also helps prevent eye diseases and skin problems.
