Head cabbage - Brassica oleracea var. capitata - belongs to the Brassicaceae family and the Brassica genus. This large family comprises some 375 genera and 3,200 species. Cabbage is used to make the famous sauerkraut. Highly reputed for their nutritional value in terms of vitamins and trace elements, cabbage leaves can also be used as a poultice to relieve rheumatism, osteoarthritis, varicose veins, shingles and other ailments. According to Dr. Cheney, a professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, cabbage juice is the best remedy for stomach ulcers, healing 97% of cases after three weeks of treatment. A syrup made from cabbage juice and honey is also perfect for sore throats.