This Austrian Cucumber Salad may be simple, but it’s packed with powerful health benefits—especially for hormonal balance, inflammation reduction, and digestive wellness. Though cucumbers are composed of 98% water, they offer remarkable therapeutic properties.
Cucumbers are rich in phytoestrogens and lignans such as secoisolariciresinol, pinoresinol, and lariciresinol. These plant-based compounds can be metabolized by gut bacteria into active agents that help regulate hormone levels and may lower the risk of estrogen-related cancers. Their antioxidant and antiestrogenic effects support DNA integrity and may help protect against breast, ovarian, uterine, prostate, colon, and lung cancers.
Pinoresinol in particular is known for its potent anti-inflammatory activity, offering natural relief from inflammation-related symptoms (Durante et al., 2012). Additionally, cucumbers assist in the removal of uric acid, reducing joint inflammation, which makes them especially beneficial for people with arthritis.
Beyond these benefits, cucumbers also aid in digestion by helping cleanse and tone the intestines, thanks to their enzyme erepsin, which supports protein breakdown. They help balance body fluids, lower cholesterol, and promote overall gut health.
This salad is elevated by the addition of dill, a traditional medicinal herb widely used across Europe to ease digestion and relieve bloating and flatulence.
For best results, let the salad sit for at least 20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and enhances its refreshing, crisp taste.
A wonderful anti-inflammatory dish that’s as healing as it is hydrating—perfect for supporting whole-body wellness.
Have you tried these other dishes that contain cucumbers: Chilled Cucumber & Avocado Soup and Mint & Cucumber Dairy-free Raita?
