These are similar to broccoli and cauliflower except that the flower buds are not condensed into compact, solid heads. The tronchuda group includes tronchuda kale and cabbage, Portuguese kale and cabbage, and braganza. These are small, cabbage-like plants with broad fleshy petioles and midribs, but lacking compact heads. They are especially popular in Portugal. Dithioltiones and glucosinolates enhance antioxidant and detoxification effects in the body.
Isothiocyanates inhibit tumor growth.
Coumarins block cancer causing compounds. Various phenols in cabbage prevent the formation of carcinogens and enhance detoxification enzymes. Other research has suggested that the compounds in cabbage and other crucifers can protect the eyes against macular degeneration.