- Botanical Name & Family: Daucus carota subsp. sativus, Apiaceae (umbellifer family).
- Plant Description: Biennial plant cultivated for its taproot (typically long, conical, orange). Leaves are pinnately compound. Produces compound umbels of small white flowers in the second year.
- Cultivation Tips: Cool-season vegetable, matures in 70-80 days. Prefers full sun, deep, loose, well-drained sandy or loamy soil (pH 6.3-6.8). Requires consistent moisture and thinning. Susceptible to blights and nematodes.
- Ayurvedic Description: Classified as Rasayana (rejuvenating). Balances Pitta and Kapha. Purifies blood, supports lung and liver health, enhances vision (due to Vitamin A). Beneficial for indigestion, constipation, and immunity. Best consumed cooked; Carrot Halwa for winter, juice with ginger for summer.
Nutritional profile of seasonal vegetable (per 100g raw edible portion):
| Vegetable | Botanical Name | Calories (kcal) | Carbohydrates (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) | Key Vitamins | Key Minerals |
| Carrot | Daucus carota subsp. sativus | 41 / 25 | 9.6 / 6 | 0.93 / 1 | 0.24 / 0 | 2.8 / 2 | A (835 µg), K (13.2 µg), C (5.9 mg) | K (320 mg), Ca, Fe, Mg, Mn, P, Na, Zn |