Economic Importance
Some species, such as spinach (Spinacia oleracea) or forms of beet (Beta vulgaris) (beetroot, chard), are used as vegetables. Forms of B. vulgaris are fodder beet (Mangelwurzel) and sugar beet. The seeds of Amaranthus and quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) are edible and used as cereals.
Dysphania ambrosioides and Dysphania anthelmintica are used as medicinal herbs.
Several species are used as a source of soda ash.
A number of species are popular garden ornamental plants, especially species from Alternanthera, Amaranthus, Celosia, and Iresine.
Some species are considered weeds.
Read more about this topic: Amaranthaceae
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