Even though it may not appear to be so, watercress is grouped in the cruciferous vegetable family of which cabbage and broccoli are notable members. Glucosinolates are compounds that cause the release of watercress’ primary anticancer compound, phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC). PEITC has been found to protect against cancers of the esophagus, stomach, and colon, as well as lung cancer. It has also been found to exhibit great toxicity against cancer cells from leukemia, colon, and prostate cancer.

Watercress Shown to Turn Off Key Angiogenisis-Stimulating Protein