Asafoetida or hing is an indispensable part of the Indian cuisine, especially in curries and dals. It is a latex gum extracted from various species of a perennial herb known as ferula. Its distinct flavor and aroma can transform any boring dish. Moreover, it has long been known for the health benefits it has to offer. It has a prominent place in traditional medicine; thanks to its carminative, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, sedative and diuretic properties.
Health benefits:
Helps Reduce Bloating And Other Stomach Problems
Asafoetida or hing is an age-old medicine for stomach problems including gas, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), intestinal worms and flatulence; thanks to its anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate such health issues.
Respiratory ailments:
Asafoetida helps to relieve symptoms like asthma, bronchitis and dry cough due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and antibiotic effects. It also helps in relieving chest congestion and releasing phlegm.
May Lower Blood Pressure Levels:
Asafoetida is known to be a natural blood thinner and may help in lowering blood pressure levels. It is power-packed with coumarin, a compound that aids in improving blood flow, thereby preventing the formation of clots.
May Relieve Menstrual Pain:
Asafoetida may come to your rescue by alleviating the menstrual pain and cramps in the lower abdomen and back. Being a natural blood thinner, it helps blood flow smoothly without hampering any part of your body. It also boosts progesterone secretion that promotes easy blood flow,
Reduces Headaches:
Asafoetida has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation in the brain vessels.
Can Heal Insect Bites And Stings:
Asafoetida acts as a natural antidote for insect bites and stings.
It May Help Reduce Acne:
It has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce acne production. Whereas, it’s anti-bacterial properties inhibit the growth of pimples and rashes
Acts As A Good Hair Conditioner:
Asafoetida can do wonders for dry and frizzy hair; thanks to its moisturizing properties.
Conclusion:
Asafoetida is a dried plant sap that has been used for centuries for its potential health benefits and unique flavor. It has been shown to be a good source of antioxidants. While limited research suggests multiple benefits, particularly for digestive health — much more human research is needed.
Licorice, scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, is one of the most popular medicinal plants belonging to the Fabaceae family.
Licorice is the source of polysaccharides, simple sugars, proteins, amino acids, and mineral salts like calcium, sodium, potassium, iron, zinc, copper, phosphorous, magnesium, manganese, silicon, and selenium. It also contains vitamins like B1, B2, B3, B5, E and C. Pectins, starches, resins, and gums.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF MULETHI
So here are some benefits of mulethi, and ways to use it.
1 . Boosts Immunity
Daily use of Mulethi is known to boost immunity. The enzymes present in the roots of Licorice plant, help the body produce lymphocytes and macrophages which are the body’s natural defense against microbes, pollutants, allergens and cells which cause autoimmune diseases..
2 . Controls Cholesterol Levels
Anti-oxidants present in licorice root are responsible for dilating blood vessels, avoid accumulation of plaque in arteries and veins, and regulate the quantity of fat in the blood. Drink mulethi tea everyday to reap its benefits.
3 . Cures Cough and Cold
Chewing on mulethi sticks is an age old remedy for sore throat. Its expectorant and bronchodilator properties help with conditions like whooping cough, asthma, dry cough and bronchitis..
4 . Increases Fertility in Women
Mulethi reduces testosterone levels in women suffering from PCOD, thereby increases chances of conception. The estrogen like properties of mulethi combined with its anti-spasmodic properties makes it a remedy for menstrual cramps.
5 . Maintains Digestive Health
Mulethi has anti-viral, anti-inflammatory & anti-bacterial properties; it maintains mucosal health of the digestive tract, relieves constipation, prevents gastric and peptic ulcers.
6 . Cures Skin Ailments
Mulethi is an emollient which helps maintain skin health. Mix powdered mulethi with rose water for oily skin, or with milk for dry skin, to combat de-pigmentation. Mix powdered mulethi in bathing water to soothe skin rashes.
Conclusion:
Mulethi has many more benefits than just the ones listed above. And just as with everything that’s good for you, there are precautions one must take with mulethi.
-Restrict consumption of mulethi tea to not more than 2 cups a day.
-Patients suffering with liver ailments and diabetes must not consume it regularly.
-Heart patients on medication must consult their physicians before using mulethi regularly.
-Pregnant women and those suffering from high blood pressure problems must not use mulethi.
A single hair strand can give a lot of information about you. The hair on your head grows 2-6 years before falling out. Many tiny blood vessels feed the base of each strand. During that time, your hair shaft absorbs chemicals from any drugs you take. It also contains sweat, your body’s natural oils, and any toxins around you.
What It Can Check For:
Drug use: As your hair grows, some drugs will “stick” to the strands. You can’t wash them out. Because of that, your hair can reveal if you’ve been using drugs like opiods, cocaine amphetamines, and cannabis. While a urine test will reveal if you’ve used drugs in the last several days, hair testing can show if you’ve done drugs over the past 3 months.
Heavy metals: If your hair has toxins like mercury and arsenic, you could be more likely to get certain health problems.
Some genetic disorders: For example, a hair sample can help diagnose Fragile X syndrome. This is a common disorder that’s passed down in families.
Family links: Analyzing hair follicles side by side sometimes can show if people are blood relatives.
Alopecia: If you’re losing hair or your hair doesn’t grow like it should, a close-up look can help your doctor figure out the best treatment.
Police evidence: Hair samples can help police identify suspects or victims after a crime.
Types of Hair analysis:
Forensic scientists perform 3 major types of hair analysis:
(1) Testing the hair shaft for drugs or nutritional deficiencies in a person’s system,
(2) Analyzing DNA collected from the root of the hair.
(3) Viewing hair under a microscope to determine if it’s from a particular person or animal.
What Affects the Test?
Things that can interfere with your test and the accuracy of the results include:
The area of the body from which the hair sample was taken.
Your age.
Your hair color.
Your race.
The rate of your hair growth.
Your use of hair products, such as hair colors and sprays.
External environmental factors, such as where you live and work.
Conclusion:
Hair analysis has become more reliable and acceptable over the past 20 years. But there are still issues that raise legal and ethical questions about its use, including possible false positives and different results for people with different hair colors or ethnic backgrounds.
Dill (Anethum graveolens) is an herb that’s found throughout European and Asian cuisines.
Also called dill weed, the plant has slender stems with alternating soft leaves and brown, flat, oval seeds. While the leaves have a sweet, grassy flavor, dill seeds are more aromatic. In addition to culinary uses, dill is rich in several nutrients and has traditionally been used to treat various ailments, including digestive issues, colic in infants, and bad breath.
Nutritional profile
One cup (9 grams) of fresh dill sprigs provides approximately:
Calories: 4
Vitamin C: 8% of the Daily Value (DV)
Manganese: 5% of the DV
Vitamin A: 4% of the DV
Folate: 3% of the DV
Iron: 3% of the DV
Fresh dill is very low in calories, yet a surprisingly good source of several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, manganese, and vitamin A
Potential benefits of Dill:
With its name derived from the Old Norse word “dilla,” which means to soothe, dill has been used since ancient times to treat colic in infants and digestive diseases, as well as to help with breastfeeding.
Rich in antioxidants
Antioxidants are naturally occurring compounds that help protect cells against damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals
As a result, consuming foods rich in antioxidants may help reduce chronic inflammation and prevent or even treat certain conditions, including heart disease, Alzheimer’s, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain forms of cancer
Both the seeds and leaves of the dill plant have been found to be rich in several plant compounds with antioxidant properties, including:
Flavonoids. These plant compounds have been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and some forms of cancer.
Terpenoids. These compounds are found in essential oils and may protect against liver, heart, kidney, and brain diseases
Tannins. Tannins have been shown to have potent antioxidant properties, as well as antimicrobial effects
Vitamin C Dill is a good source of vitamin C, which has also been shown to have powerful antioxidant properties
May benefit heart health
Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. However, the World Health Organization estimates that nearly 75% of heart disease cases could be prevented by reducing risk factors like poor diet, smoking, and lack of exercise. Additional risk factors for heart disease include elevated blood pressure, triglyceride, and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, as well as chronic inflammation
Flavonoids, like those found in dill, have been shown to protect the heart due to their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
Furthermore, animal studies have suggested that dill extract may have cholesterol- and triglyceride-lowering effects. However, research in humans in more mixed.
People with high total cholesterol and triglyceride levels found that taking 6 dill extract tablets daily for 2 months significantly improved total cholesterol and triglyceride levels but did not change HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
Overall, while the antioxidants in dill extracts may benefit overall heart health.
May help lower blood sugar levels
Dill has been suggested to have blood-sugar-lowering effects,
May have anticancer properties
Monoterpenes are a class of terpenes, which are naturally occurring plant compounds that are linked to anticancer, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. They’re commonly found in essential oils of plants like dill and have been associated with anticancer properties.
As dill is high in monoterpenes, particularly d-limonene, it may have anticancer properties. However, there’s currently no research on the effectiveness of dill or dill extract on the risk or treatment of cancer.
Other potential benefits
Dill may benefit your health in the following ways as well:
Antibacterial properties. Essential oils in dill have antibacterial effects which fight potentially harmful bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus
Bone health. Dill contains calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus — all of which are important for bone health
Menstrual cramps. Essential oils in dill may help relieve pain from cramps during your period. However, research about this is currently limited and mixed
Conclusion:
Dill is rich in a variety of plant compounds that may have numerous benefits for health, including protection against heart disease and certain forms of cancer. Additionally, dill may help lower blood sugar levels, but more human studies are needed.
Methi’ is the Indian name for Fenugreek and ‘Kasuri Methi‘ in English translates to ‘Dried fenugreek leaves’. Fenugreek leaves are one of the healthiest green leafy vegetables. This versatile herb is from the legume family. It has been used in cuisines as a flavoring agent for decades. In addition, it is a widely used spice in multiple cuisines globally. They add a mild and aromatic bitter-nutty flavor to curries and stir-fries.
Nutritional Value of Fenugreek:
100g of fenugreek leaves contain
Energy: 323 kcals
Fat: 6.41g
Carbohydrates: 58g
Dietary fiber: 24.6g
Protein: 23g
Vitamin and Minerals
Fenugreek leaves contain minerals in reasonable quantities. They also have reasonable amounts of vitamin A, C and B.
Iron: 33.53 mg
Calcium: 176 mg
Sodium: 67 mg
Potassium: 770 mg
Copper: 1.11 mg
Magnesium: 191 mg
Phosphorous: 296 mg
Zinc: 2.50 mg
Health Benefits of Fenugreek Leaves:
Helps Control Cholesterol
High cholesterol levels cause diseases like atherosclerosis. It occurs due to the build-up of fat deposits within the arteries, obstructing blood circulation. As a result, it leads to stroke, high blood pressure and heart failure.
Weight Management
Obesity and unhealthy weight gain leads to many diseases. Such as; diabetes and heart diseases. In many cases, obesity occurs due to overeating. Since fenugreek is high in fiber, it is known for its satiating properties. As a result, it ultimately helps control cravings. It thus keeps you from overeating and helps you lose weight.
High in Antioxidants
Fenugreek is a rich source of antioxidants. They contain Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and beta carotene. Free radicals in the body result from poor metabolism, which unfortunately damages cells and organs in the human anatomy
Prevents Gastric Disorders
Research shows that fiber in fenugreek works as food to the friendly gut microbes. They absorb water from the intestines and soften the bowel. Therefore, this makes it easier to excrete them. Fenugreek leaves also help in preventing indigestion. In addition, it reduces the risk of constipation and inflammation.
Beneficial for Diabetes
Fenugreek leaves are useful in controlling Diabetes. Diabetes is a prevalent lifestyle disease that occurs due to various factors. Some common causes are genetic and improper diet. If it worsens, it results in many adverse outcomes—delayed wound healing, nephropathy, neuropathy, to name a few.
Prevents Clotting Disorders
Fenugreek contains phenols. It is a potent antioxidant that helps in preventing blood clot formation. Blood clots obstruct blood circulation, interrupting the blood supply to the vital organs.
Skin and Hair Health
Fenugreek leaves contain vitamin C. It possesses antioxidant properties that prevent inflammatory disease. Vitamin C also stimulates collagen synthesis that gives firmness to your skin. Thus, it prevents wrinkles and also delays the signs of ageing. It also has healing properties. It contains mucilage and can even moisturize dry skin.
Anti Cancer Properties
Several factors cause cancer. It involves the multiplication of cells beyond normal levels, which can occur due to oxidative stress, genetics, etc. Fenugreek may have potential anti-carcinogenic qualities. The saponins in fenugreek inhibit cancer cell growth
Improves Kidney Function
Kidney stones result from improper dietary habits. It also occurs due to other factors like oxalic acid and calcium hydroxyproline. Studies show that antioxidants prevent kidney stones. The antioxidants in fenugreek can help reduce their level and to avoid kidney stones from forming.
Protects Liver
Fenugreek may reduce the radical cell injury in the liver. Alcohol and an unhealthy diet may worsen liver damage. The resultant damage may be liver cirrhosis
Antimicrobial Activity
Fenugreek extracts have antimicrobial properties and thus, limit the multiplication of bacteria. Therefore, it offers protection against high potent bacteria. Studies show that defensin is another helpful component in fenugreek. It inhibits the proliferation of fungus. The antibacterial effects also improve wound healing.
Bone Health
Fenugreek is a rich source of calcium, magnesium and Vitamin D. They are essential for bone health. They strengthen the bones and stimulate bone healing. Therefore, they can prevent bone disorders. As a result, this includes fractures and osteoporosis.
Female Reproductive health
Studies show that fenugreek can ease the menstrual cycle during irregular periods. It helps in uterine contractions and regulates your menstrual periods. In addition, they may improve the symptoms related to menstrual issues such as fatigue.
Improves Male Fertility
Research has shown that fenugreek extracts improve fertility. It helps improve the secretion of testosterone that is essential for sperm synthesis. Therefore, fenugreek compounds improve sperm count and quality.
Lactation
Fenugreek contains diosgenin and phytoestrogen, which mimic the female hormone oestrogen. However, the exact mechanism is unknown. Also, several studies have found fenugreek to improve breast milk production.
Conclusion:
You can use the fenugreek leaves to treat indigestion, gastritis and constipation. In addition, it is effective in managing cholesterol, liver disorders, reproductive disorders and many more. It also helps in bone, skin and hair health.
Ajwain is a plant that produces small, seed-like fruits similar to caraway and cumin. It comes from a group of plants that includes celery, caraway, coriander, fennel, parsley, and parsnips. It goes by many other names, including carom seed, bishop’s weed, and ajowan caraway.
Ajwain is common in Indian food. It has a strong, bitter taste with an aroma similar to thyme. The “seeds,” which are actually fruits, are typically dry-roasted or ground and used in spice mixtures. They are also used in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine to help treat numerous issues.
Health Benefits:
Ajwain seeds have a small amount of oil in them known as ajwain oil. The oil contains thymol, a phenol that gives the fruit its thyme-like smell. Thymol is commonly used to treat digestive problems. It also has antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Digestive Health
Active enzymes in ajwain improve the flow of stomach acids, which can help to relieve indigestion, bloating, and gas. The plant can also help to treat acidity and peptic ulcer disease as well as sores in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
Infection Prevention
Many of the essential oils in ajwain, most notably thymol and carvacrol, can help to fight the growth of bacteria and fungi. They may also help to fight bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, which can lead to food poisoning and other stomach issues.
Lower blood pressure
Research in rats indicates that thymol in ajwain might act to keep calcium from entering the blood vessels in your heart and thus helps to lower blood pressure.
Cough and Congestion Relief
Ajwain can provide relief from coughing as well as clear mucus from your nose, both of which make breathing easier. It may also help to widen the bronchial tubes, which can help those with asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).
Toothache Relief
Due to the anti-inflammatory properties of thymol and other essential oils, ajwain can help to reduce pain associated with toothaches. Thymol may also help to improve your oral health by fighting bacteria and fungi in the mouth.
Arthritis Pain Relief
Ajwain can also help to soothe pain and swelling. Crushed fruit can be made into a paste and applied to the skin at the joints to treat arthritis pain. Alternatively, one can fill a tub with warm water and add a handful of seeds for a soothing bath.
Cholesterol-lowering and heart-protective
Animal studies demonstrate the positive effects of carom seeds on heart health. In addition, large doses of carom seed powder and extract may lower increased cholesterol. Similarly, carom seeds can affect triglyceride (TG) levels. Both elevated cholesterol and TG levels are risk factors for heart disease.
Prevents kidney stones
Studies show the effectiveness of carom seed extracts on urinary stones. According to the findings of this study, carom seed extract treated kidney stones. Calcium oxalate, calcium oxalate/uric acid, and calcium-oxalate/hydroxyapatite stones were cured by 100%, 53%, and 31.25%, respectively.
Nutrients per Serving
A single serving (one teaspoon) of ajwain contains:
Calories: 5
Protein: less than 1 gram
Fat: less than 1 gram
Carbohydrates: 1 gram
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 0 grams
It also contains:
Potassium
Calcium
Iron
Essential fatty acids
Conclusion:
Ajwain is a safe addition to most people’s diets, but it should be avoided by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Compounds in ajwain have been shown to potentially cause birth defects or miscarriage.
Mint is a popular ingredient in several foods and beverages, ranging from teas and alcoholic drinks to sauces, salads and desserts.
While eating the plant offers some health benefits, research shows that several of mint’s health benefits come from applying it to the skin, inhaling its aroma or taking it as a capsule.
1/3 cup or half an ounce (14 grams) of spearmint contains (1):
Calories: 6
Fiber: 1 gram
Vitamin A: 12% of the RDI
Iron: 9% of the RDI
Manganese: 8% of the RDI
Folate: 4% of the RDI
Mint is a particularly good source of vitamin A that is critical for eye health and night vision. It is also a potent source of antioxidants, especially when compared to other herbs and spices. Antioxidants help protect your body from oxidative stress, a type of damage to cells caused by free radicals.
(IBS) is a common digestive tract disorder. It is characterized by digestive symptoms like stomach pain, gas, bloating and changes in bowel habits.
Although treatment for IBS often includes dietary changes and taking medications, research shows that taking peppermint oil as an herbal remedy might also be helpful.
Peppermint oil contains a compound called menthol, which is thought to help alleviate IBS symptoms through its relaxing effects on the muscles of the digestive tract
Mint may also be effective at relieving other digestive problems such as upset stomach and indigestion. Indigestion may occur when food sits in the stomach for too long before passing into the rest of the digestive tract. Multiple studies have shown that food passes through the stomach quicker when people take peppermint oil with meals, which could relieve symptoms from this type of indigestion
In addition to ingesting mint, there are claims that inhaling the aroma of essential oils from the plant could provide health benefits, including improved brain function.
Smelling the aroma of peppermint oil for five minutes prior to testing produced significant improvements in memory
Breastfeeding mothers commonly experience sore and cracked nipples, which can make breastfeeding painful and difficult. Studies have shown that applying mint to the skin can help relieve pain associated with breastfeeding.
Many over-the-counter cold and flu treatments contain menthol, a primary compound in peppermint oil. Many people believe menthol is an effective nasal decongestant that can get rid of congestion and improve airflow and breathing.
Mint-flavored chewing gum and breath mints are some of the first things people reach for when trying to prevent or get rid of bad breath. Experts agree that most of these products can mask foul-smelling breath for a few hours. However, they only cover up bad breath and don’t reduce the bacteria or other compounds causing bad breath in the first place
Conclusion:
Mint makes a delicious and healthy addition to many foods and beverages. Although mint is easy to add to many dishes, research demonstrating its health benefits has mainly used mint taken in capsules, applied to the skin or inhaled via aromatherapy.
Mint’s health benefits range from improving brain function and digestive symptoms to relieving breastfeeding pain, cold symptoms and even bad breath.
Bay leaf is also known as tej patta, this culinary herb is also known for its age-old medicinal properties and various health benefits. Bay leaves are found to possess anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, all of which can help to manage certain health conditions. Even Ayurveda considers this herb as an effective home remedy to cure various ailments.
The health benefits of bay leaf:
Good for diabetes management
Bay leaves can lower your sugar levels and prove effective in dealing with type 2 diabetes. Along with that, it can also reduce your bad cholesterol levels.
Improves digestion
Bay leaves may have an impact on the gastrointestinal system by preventing gastric damage and promoting urination. This helps release toxins in the body and aids in the health of the kidneys. Furthermore, the organic compounds found in bay leaves are very effective in helping with an upset stomach, soothing irritable bowel syndrome or even making it easy to digest food.
Treats respiratory conditions
Bay leaf is also a source of essential oil. The essential oil extracted from this leaf can be used to alleviate various respiratory conditions.
Fights against fungal infections
Bay leaf has been shown to provide antifungal properties, which can combat fungal conditions. These properties along with its vitamin C content can protect the skin from any kind of infection and irritation.
Helps reduce stress and anxiety:
Bay leaves can lower the level of stress and anxiety in the body. It has natural soothing qualities which can help you calm down and can reduce the chances of depression too.
Can control inflammation:
Bay leaf contains sesquiterpene lactones, which are known to fight inflammation by inhibiting the production of nitric oxide, which is one of the causes behind inflammation.
Protects heart health:
The heart tends to perform better due to rutin and caffeic acid, both of which are found in bay leaves. These properties can strengthen the heart’s capillary walls and help in lowering bad cholesterol levels.
Resolves hair issues:
Bay leaves are loaded with properties that can help hair growth. All you need to do is to steep bay leaves in water and then rub them on your scalp after shampoo to get rid of dandruff.
Anti-cancer properties:
The unique combination of antioxidants and organic compounds in bay leaves including phytonutrients, catechins, linalool, and parthenolide help to prevent your body from the effects of cancer-causing free radicals.
Conclusion:
Bay leaf is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. These vitamins are all known to support a healthy immune system. Bay leaf tea can help ease bouts of upset stomach. The tea is also very aromatic, which can help relieve sinus pressure or stuffy nose.
Curry leaves not only impart flavor to food but have medicinal benefits too. Native to India, curry leaves are extensively used in South Indian and Sri Lankan cooking, especially in curries. Apart from adding a nice aroma to the curries, the leaves are said to be good for a number of ailments. The medicinal uses of curry leaves are well documented in ancient scriptures.
Health benefits of Curry leaves:
Aids in the growth of hair
Curry leaves help in hair growth and minimizing hair fall. When you eat curry leaves, not only is the hair root strengthened, premature graying is also prevented and sometimes cured.
Promotes faster healing of wounds
Curry leaves have excellent properties which are good for your skin. If you have small wounds, burns or any skin eruptions, a paste of curry leaves is all you need. For quick relief, apply a thick layer of a paste made of curry leaves.
Helps in weight loss
Trying to knock down a few kilos from your weight? Try curry leaves as it aids in weight loss. It also cleanses your body from harmful chemicals.
Cures an upset stomach
Have you tried having curry leaves on an empty stomach? Excellent for treating an upset stomach, having curry leaves early in the morning is good for various stomach-related issues. Just grind some dried curry leaves and add them to buttermilk. Drink this concoction first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach to deal with diarrhea, constipation and dysentery.
Boosts immunity: Curry leaves are loaded with several vitamins and are a good source of iron and calcium. It helps build immunity and protects you and your family from diseases.
Treats gastric issues: If you are suffering from an upset stomach, constipation or diarrhea, curry leaves can come to your rescue. Just mix some curry leaf powder in buttermilk and drink it on an empty stomach to find relief. It is also useful in relieving symptoms of morning sickness and nausea.
Battles infection: The antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curry leaves help the body to fight against various diseases.
Boosts heart health: Its anti-oxidative properties help to regulate the level of LDL or bad cholesterol in the blood and increases HDL or good cholesterol level which is vital for good heart health.
Regulates blood sugar: Curry leaves are rich in fiber content. Dietary fiber helps to slow down digestion which ensures proper utilization of insulin and keeps the blood sugar level in check.
Improves eyesight: Curry leaves are a rich source of vitamin A which is beneficial for good vision and eye health.
Curry leaves (nutritional value per 100g)
Energy 266 kj (kilojules)
Protein 7.41g
Fiber 16.83g
Phosphorus 83.29mg
Calcium 659mg
Iron 8.67mg
Magnesium 182mg
Riboflavin 0.13mg
Niacin 0.85mg
Conclusion:
We don’t need super foods for optimal health, simple, day-to-day ingredients like curry leaves can do wonders for our health. So the next time you want to throw out a curry leaf from your plate, think again.
Moringa tree is also known as the ‘miracle tree’ and there is a good reason why. The leaves, fruit, sap, oil, roots, bark, seeds, pod and flowers of the tree have medicinal properties. The products from the tree have many uses. It is also known as the ‘drumstick tree’. It is found mostly in Asia, Africa, and South America.
The health benefits of moringa leaves.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Moringa leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 and Folate. They are also rich in magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc.
Rich in Amino Acids
Moringa leaves are rich in amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. 18 types of amino acids are found in them and each of them makes an important contribution to our wellbeing.
Fight Inflammation
Moringa leaves are anti-inflammatory in nature due to the presence of isothiocyanates. They have niazimicin that is known to reign in the development of cancer cells.
Rich in Antioxidants
Moringa leaves have anti-oxidative properties and protect against the damaging effects of free radicals present in the environment. The damage caused by free radicals is responsible for many chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart problems and Alzheimer’s. Moringa leaves are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene that act against free radicals.
They also have Quercetin which is an antioxidant that helps to lower blood pressure. Another antioxidant that is present in moringa leaves is Chlorogenic acid which helps to stabilize blood sugar levels post meals.
Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Moringa leaves are a perfect resource for that as they stabilize the blood sugar levels due to the presence of isothiocyanates.
Lowers Cholesterol
Apart from oats, flaxseeds, and almonds, moringa leaves are a dependable remedy against high cholesterol. Moringa leaves can lower those levels and protect against the risk of heart disease.
Protects the Liver
Those who have tuberculosis can benefit greatly from moringa leaves as they reduce the negative effects of anti-tubercular drugs. The leaves accelerate the repair of the liver cells. The leaves have a high concentration of polyphenols that protect against oxidative damage to the liver and may even reduce it.
Protects Against Arsenic Toxicity
In many parts of the world, arsenic contamination is a common problem. Arsenic has found its way in our systems through many food items, particularly rice. Long-term exposure to this element can lead to the development of cancer and heart disease. Research on lab animals has shown that moringa leaves to combat the effects of arsenic toxicity.
Good for the Stomach
Moringa leaves are beneficial against digestive disorders. Those who suffer from constipation, bloating, gas, gastritis and ulcerative colitis.
Improves bone health:
Moringa leaves are rich sources of calcium and phosphorus. Both of these elements are needed for good bone health. Moringa oleifera also fights against osteoporosis and keeps bone and teeth strong
An Antiseptic
Moringa leaves are antiseptic and fight off many bacterial infections. They are even beneficial towards wound healing and help to heal bruises, minor cuts, and burns quickly as they reduce the clotting time.
Improve Lactation
In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, moringa leaves were used to increase lactation in nursing mothers. Since they are a rich source of protein, important vitamins, and essential nutrients, consuming moringa leaves is very good for the health of the mother and the baby.
Helps in Weight Management
Moringa leaves increase fat burning in the body… They slim down the person without depleting energy reserves. This keeps the person feeling buoyant and nourished. They reduce cravings for food and boost metabolism. They also lower cholesterol.
Good for skin and hair
Due to an abundance of antioxidants and nutrients, moringa leaves improve the health and appearance of skin and hair. They add suppleness to the skin and shine to the hair. This is why moringa leaves are part of many cosmetics. They improve the skin tone and add a glow due to their purifying nature and therapeutic properties.
Good for Nervous System
Many nervous disorders have been known to show positive results against the use of moringa leaves. They support brain health and work as neuro-enhancers. The high concentration of vitamins E and C combat neural degeneration and help improve brain function. Those who have a migraine or suffer from recurring headaches must eat moringa leaves regularly. These leaves also work as mood balancers as they stabilize the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and nor-adrenaline which are important for memory, mood and for stimulus-response.
Good for Detoxification
Moringa leaves are natural cleansers and help to detoxify the system. This helps to keep the body and increases the immunity against various infections. They also increase the energy levels in the body.
Potential Downsides of Moringa leaves:
Moringa and its leaves may not be for everyone. In large doses, the leaves, bark, roots and moringa fruit may have laxative properties.
In pregnant women, the roots bark and extract of Moringa may cause uterine contractions.
Similarly, breastfeeding women should avoid Moringa leaves since it is unknown whether any of the chemicals or substances present can pass through the milk to the child.
In some cases, Moringa leaf powder has been found to contain higher than the recommended tolerable amounts of lead
Lastly, it is recommended that people on blood thinners should also avoid Moringa unless you consult your doctor first.
Conclusion
Moringa leaves provide a powerful punch of nutrition and have an anti-inflammatory nature. Their anti-oxidative properties combined with their cellular-health protective properties make them a new ‘super-food’. They suppress the production of inflammatory enzymes and lower sugar levels. Make these a regular part of your diet to reap rich health benefits.
