Fenugreek aka Methi is a fool-proof way to step into your weight loss journey
Weight loss is no cakewalk. Calling it a herculean task wouldn’t be wrong either, especially if it’s obesity-related to diabetes, or undue weight gain due to PCOS. And, when the cravings are haunting you every day.
You may end up feeling frustrated, left out, or calling those sexy hour-glass bodies make-belief bodies.
We feel you.
And, for you, we found an amazing weight loss ‘natural pacer’, that is, fenugreek seeds for weight loss. Yes, the notorious seeds in your pantry.
Methi or fenugreek is a panacea for diabetics too. The magic lies in its fiber-packed constituents that slow down the process or carb-absorption. Moreover, it has vital amino acids that help in managing blood glucose levels.
Cutting it short, let’s understand how fenugreek seeds for weight loss are a game changer.
Fenugreek seeds are well-known weight loss agents for their incredible benefits:
Increases metabolic rate
Promotes satiety
Burn belly fat faster
Improves digestive health
Controls diabetes and blood pressure
A study found that fenugreek extract was given to healthy, obese participants who ended up consuming less dietary fat. However, no difference in weight was observed during the 6-week study.
The study confirms that fenugreek tea or water cannot help you lose weight magically. Rather, it can supplement your weight loss diet + workout by helping you stick to your new eating habits, improving digestion and metabolism-which quicken weight loss process.
Another study showed that participants with diabetes who eat fenugreek seeds for weight loss can see visible results within days.
How do Fenugreek Seeds for Weight Loss work?
Fenugreek is a potent natural weight loss seed that contains galactomannan, a water-soluble heteropolysaccharide. It works by curbing your appetite while making you feel fuller for longer. And this makes following your diet easier.
Fenugreek seeds are packed with fibers (75% water-soluble fibers) that ease constipation and boost the metabolism of your body. It leads to quicker fat burn in the belly and adipose tissues.
Above all, the fenugreek seeds do not contain any unhealthy carbs. It only contains adequate traces of a few healthy carbs instead. Thus, it surely makes a true weight loss drink.
Moreover, by preventing calorie intake and higher metabolic rate, weight loss is a sure-fire outcome.
Additionally, the seeds have numerous health benefits, including controlled blood pressure and sugar levels.
The fact is fenugreek seeds are the healthiest and most natural way to lose weight. All those expensive weight loss teas and medicines focus on the same aspect: curb your appetite and quicken metabolic rate. Then, why not pick a natural alternative?
The cherry on top? Fenugreek seeds for weight loss are a good source of minerals and vitamins such as calcium, potassium, folate, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin A.
So, next time you are planning on weight loss, start with fenugreek seeds to help you eat less and metabolize faster.
Here are fun ways you can have your daily dose of fenugreek seeds:
1. Fenugreek Tea:
Add a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds or powder in hot water. Let it boil for 10 minutes. Strain in a cup. Add in powdered cinnamon, lemon juice, ginger juice, and honey to taste. The vitality will keep you going the entire day without feeling tired. You can drink fenugreek tea a maximum of thrice a day.
Quick Tip: You can get fenugreek tea bags to brew a quick cup anytime and anywhere. The add-ons are optional.
2. Fenugreek Water
Soak a tablespoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Strain the water and drink it on an empty stomach.
3. Boil Fenugreek Seeds
Add a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds to boiling water. Cook it for 4-5 minutes. Let it cool and have your detox drink. You can have it twice a day.
4. Fenugreek and Honey
You can also add a spoonful of honey to fenugreek water. Honey prevents inflammation and strengthens the immune system. You can also take soaked seeds mixed with honey on empty stomach.
5. Soaked Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreeks seeds for weight loss work by strengthening the digestive system. To utilize its maximum antioxidants, it’s best to soak a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight and chew them first thing in the morning.
Final Verdict
Fenugreek seeds for weight loss work similar to expensive weight loss teas and medicines. Simply stick to your weight loss routine and amp it up with fenugreek seeds to witness faster weight loss results.
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To know how Fenugreek seeds can be used and to see some examples of food products that are made using it, Click here
Black Pepper for Diabetes is No Sugar, But is it Really Safe?
Black pepper is well-known as the king of spices. It crowns our sunny-side-up, plates of pasta, salads, and whatnot.
Earning its rightful spot as a world-famous and timeless spice, pepper’s history goes back to the Greeks and Romans. Where it was used as currency or offering to gods.
Around the world, pepper is one of the most traded spices in the form of whole or powdered peppercorns. These Peppercorns are the berries taken from tropical vines of pepper plants.
Owing to its one-of-a-kind pungent flavor, pepper is irresistible for diabetics. Well, it’s not sweet that a diabetic should worry about a little pepper spray on fav foods. But, there’s a catch.
After researching expert opinions here’s a comprehensive rundown on pepper for diabetics. Its effect on blood glucose, interaction with diabetes medication, and precautions.
Let’s discuss the more benefits of black pepper for diabetes.
Is Black Pepper for Diabetes Safe?
Black pepper can increase your body’s capacity to lower blood sugar levels and prevent sugar spikes. It contains a vital ingredient ‘piperine’ that regulates the balance.
In a comparative rat study published in Hormone and Metabolic Research, rats who had piperine could regulate glucose.
In another study published in a Pharmaceutical Journal, some diabetic mice were fed with a little piperine daily. It had a significant reduction in blood sugar levels, in comparison to the controlled group.
One more research found that piperine boosts the effectiveness of anti-diabetic drugs. It reduces blood sugar levels more than the medicine taken alone.
So, it wouldn’t be wrong to say ‘piperine’ in black pepper is an anti-diabetic agent. The fact that this natural antioxidant is a ‘bioenhancer’, means it absorbs in the blood.
Genie ‘piperine’’ also boosts metabolism. It creates a perfect balance of glucose-insulin in diabetics.
That said, research and health experts have noticed that a higher dose of black pepper can lead to a spike in blood glucose levels as it is more bioavailable. Thus, moderation is the key.
Above all, black pepper for diabetes is safe. In effect, it aids in preventing insulin spikes.
Black Pepper
Can a Diabetic Eat Pepper?
In precision, yes, diabetics can eat black pepper.
Piperine found in black pepper helps in lowering blood glucose levels. Furthermore, it may interact with anti-diabetic medicines leading to low blood sugar levels.
But, Experts recommend consuming black pepper for diabetes but in moderation.
How Much Black Pepper Per Day Should I Consume?
As you are aware of the effects of black pepper on your blood sugar levels, it’s important to know your ‘safe limits.
For the best benefits of black pepper on diabetes, one should consume one teaspoon of black pepper a day. Excess to black pepper can impact your digestion and cause ulcers.
So whenever you order food with peppery seasoning, do inform the waiters to skip it and let you do it to your taste.
Is Black Pepper Unsafe for Diabetics?
Yes, sometimes. Because black pepper might interfere with the absorption of medicines having propranolol, phenytoin, lithium, theophylline, and rifampin. Rather taking black pepper while you are taking any such drugs can boost their results. That can be detrimental.
How to Safely Add Black Pepper for Diabetes?
It is advisable to sprinkle the desired amount of black pepper at the final stage of your meal preparation.
Firstly, because it has a sharp flavor. Secondly, it helps prevent you from inhaling the black pepper fumes when sprinkling. It’s important and safe for diabetics because these fumes can irritate the lungs and might cause anoxia. Anoxia is a condition when your tissues aren’t oxygenated and that’s not a good thing for diabetics.
Final Verdict
Black pepper is no doubt the king of spices for its extraordinary flavor and health effects for diabetics.
What’s remarkable is its ability to boost your body’s ability to absorb more nutrients and make anti-diabetic drugs more bioavailable to the body. Thus, you can hit and maintain the right insulin-glucose balance even if you are diabetic, with rare insulin spikes. So, spice up your foods the right way and stay healthy.
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To know how Black Pepper can be used and to see some examples of food products that are made using it, Click here
Tamarind is the mouthwatering tropical delight. It is not only a spice condiment but a folk medicine for African, Mexican, and Asians for ages. Along with fulfilling the tangy graving, tamarind provides other health benefits too.
The bean-shaped pods are full of fibrous pulp that has a tangy sweet-sour flavor. The pulpy paste is a great addition to Asian purees, dips, and curries.
And the incredible health benefits of tamarind are the cherry on top. But, you have to be careful about a few factors. (Keep reading)
Getting to the point, here’s a research-backed guide that details all you need to know about tamarind.
7 Benefits of Tamarind
Tamarind is a tropical fruit that is widely used in culinary preparations across various cuisines. Apart from its unique sweet and tangy flavor, tamarind offers several health benefits. Let’s explore some of the key benefits of tamarind:
Rich in Antioxidants: Tamarind contains high levels of antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E, and various phenolic compounds. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, protecting cells from oxidative damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Tamarind has natural anti-inflammatory properties attributed to its polyphenolic compounds, such as flavonoids and tannins. These compounds help reduce inflammation in the body, which is a common underlying factor in many chronic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
Digestive Health: Tamarind has traditionally been used to support digestive health. It contains dietary fiber, which aids in regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. Tamarind also contains natural enzymes that help break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, promoting optimal digestion.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Research suggests that tamarind may help regulate blood sugar levels. It contains certain compounds that can inhibit the activity of enzymes involved in carbohydrate digestion, leading to a slower release of glucose into the bloodstream. This can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
Heart Health: Tamarind has potential benefits for heart health. It contains fiber and polyphenols that may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Tamarind also contains potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Weight Management: Due to its fiber content and ability to promote satiety, tamarind can be a helpful addition to a weight management plan. The fiber helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing overall calorie intake. Additionally, tamarind’s natural tart flavor can add depth to dishes without the need for excessive fats or sugars.
Boosts Immunity: Tamarind is a good source of vitamin C, which plays a vital role in supporting a healthy immune system. Adequate vitamin C intake can enhance the body’s defenses against infections and promote overall well-being.
It’s important to note that while tamarind offers several health benefits, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Some individuals may be allergic to tamarind or experience adverse effects, so it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your diet.
Remember to join our community of food lovers at Eatlo Community to share your culinary experiences, learn new recipes, and embrace a healthy lifestyle.
is Tamarind Good for PCOS?
Tamarind may have potential benefits for individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that affects many women. While tamarind itself may not directly treat or cure PCOS, it can be a beneficial addition to a balanced diet for managing certain symptoms associated with the condition. Here’s how tamarind may be helpful for individuals with PCOS:
Blood Sugar Regulation: PCOS is often linked to insulin resistance, which can lead to elevated blood sugar levels. Tamarind has been found to have a positive impact on blood sugar regulation, potentially helping to improve insulin sensitivity. By promoting better glucose control, tamarind may indirectly support individuals with PCOS who are at risk of developing diabetes or experiencing difficulties in managing blood sugar levels.
Digestive Health: Many individuals with PCOS struggle with digestive issues, such as bloating and constipation. Tamarind contains dietary fiber, which aids in maintaining regular bowel movements and supporting overall digestive health. Adequate fiber intake can help alleviate constipation and promote healthy gut function.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: PCOS is often associated with chronic low-grade inflammation. Tamarind possesses natural anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body. By lowering inflammation levels, tamarind can potentially contribute to alleviating certain PCOS symptoms and supporting overall well-being.
Weight Management: Weight management is a key aspect of PCOS management, as excess weight can exacerbate symptoms. Tamarind, with its high fiber content, can promote satiety and help control appetite, which may be beneficial for individuals with PCOS who are striving to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
While tamarind shows promise in supporting certain aspects of PCOS management, it’s essential to approach it as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who specializes in PCOS to tailor a diet plan that suits your specific needs and health goals.
Please note that individual responses to dietary changes may vary, and it’s important to monitor your body’s response to tamarind consumption. If you have any concerns or experience adverse effects, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider.
Remember to join our community of food lovers at Eatlo Community to connect with others, share your experiences, and discover more about managing PCOS and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
is Tamarind Good for Acidity?
Tamarind may offer some relief for individuals experiencing acidity or acid reflux. While it is not a cure for the underlying causes of acidity, tamarind’s natural properties can help alleviate symptoms. Here’s how tamarind can potentially be beneficial for acidity:
Alkalizing Effect: Despite its tangy taste, tamarind has an alkalizing effect on the body. It contains potassium, which can help neutralize excess stomach acid and reduce acidity levels. Consuming tamarind may help balance the pH levels in the stomach, providing relief from acidity.
Digestive Aid: Tamarind contains natural digestive enzymes, such as amylase and lipase, which assist in breaking down food and promoting better digestion. By improving digestion, tamarind may reduce the occurrence of acid reflux and minimize the chances of acid regurgitation.
Soothing Properties: Tamarind has traditionally been used to soothe digestive discomfort. It contains compounds that can help calm inflammation in the digestive tract, potentially providing relief from acid-related symptoms.
Fiber Content: Tamarind is rich in dietary fiber, which can aid in regulating bowel movements and preventing constipation. By promoting regularity, fiber can help prevent the buildup of gas and reduce the chances of acid reflux.
While tamarind may be helpful in managing acidity, it’s important to note that individual responses can vary. If you experience chronic or severe acidity symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Additionally, it’s essential to consume tamarind in moderation and observe your body’s response. Excessive consumption or sensitivity to tamarind may exacerbate acidity symptoms in some individuals.
Can Tamarind Help Reduce Belly Fat?
Tamarind alone cannot directly reduce belly fat. However, incorporating tamarind as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle may support weight management, which can contribute to reducing overall body fat, including belly fat. Here’s how tamarind can potentially aid in weight management:
Fiber Content: Tamarind is a good source of dietary fiber. Consuming foods rich in fiber can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing overall calorie intake. By promoting satiety, tamarind can assist in controlling portion sizes and preventing overeating, which may indirectly contribute to weight loss, including reduction in belly fat.
Low-Calorie Option: Tamarind is relatively low in calories compared to other snack options. Choosing tamarind as a healthier snack alternative to high-calorie, sugary snacks can aid in calorie control and support weight management efforts.
Hydration: Tamarind has natural hydrating properties. Staying well-hydrated is essential for maintaining overall health and supporting weight management. By replacing sugary beverages with hydrating options like tamarind-infused water or unsweetened tamarind juice, you can reduce calorie intake and promote healthy hydration habits.
Flavor Enhancement: Tamarind’s unique tangy taste can add depth of flavor to dishes without the need for excessive fats or sugars. By incorporating tamarind in your cooking, you can enhance the taste of meals and potentially reduce the reliance on calorie-dense flavor enhancers.
It’s important to remember that reducing belly fat requires an overall healthy lifestyle approach, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and portion control. Incorporating tamarind into a well-rounded, calorie-controlled diet can be a part of a comprehensive weight management plan.
It’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet or weight loss regimen, especially if you have specific health concerns or medical conditions.
Remember to join our community of food lovers at Eatlo Community to connect with others, share your experiences, and discover more about healthy eating and weight management.
Is Tamarind a Blood Thinner?
Tamarind does possess certain properties that may have a mild blood-thinning effect. It contains compounds called coumarins, which are known for their anticoagulant properties. However, it’s important to note that the blood-thinning effect of tamarind is relatively mild compared to prescribed anticoagulant medications. Here’s what you need to know:
Coumarins: Tamarind naturally contains coumarins, which have been found to have anticoagulant activity. Coumarins work by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes involved in blood clotting. This can potentially prevent excessive clotting and promote healthy blood flow.
Mild Blood-Thinning Effect: The blood-thinning effect of tamarind is not as potent as that of prescription blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin. It is generally considered to have a mild impact on blood clotting.
Consult with Healthcare Professional: If you are taking prescription blood-thinning medications or have a bleeding disorder, it is essential to consult with your healthcare professional before incorporating tamarind into your diet. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific medical condition and medication regimen.
Moderation and Balance: As with any food or supplement, moderation is key. Consuming tamarind in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet is generally considered safe for individuals without underlying medical conditions. However, excessive consumption may lead to potential side effects, including an increased risk of bleeding.
It’s crucial to remember that individual responses to tamarind consumption can vary, and the blood-thinning effect may not be significant enough to replace prescribed anticoagulant medications. It is always advisable to consult with your healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication or diet regimen.
If you have concerns about blood clotting or related conditions, your healthcare professional can provide you with specific guidance based on your medical history and current health status.
Tamarind Water Benefits
Tamarind water, also known as tamarind-infused water or tamarind decoction, offers several potential health benefits. It is a refreshing beverage made by soaking tamarind pulp or pods in water and extracting its flavors. Here are some of the benefits of tamarind water:
Hydration: Tamarind water is an excellent way to stay hydrated. It provides a flavorful alternative to plain water, making it more enjoyable to consume and encouraging adequate fluid intake throughout the day.
Vitamin C: Tamarind is a good source of vitamin C, and when infused in water, it imparts this essential nutrient to the beverage. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in supporting a healthy immune system, promoting collagen synthesis, and acting as an antioxidant.
Digestive Health: Tamarind has traditionally been used to support digestive health. Tamarind water can aid in digestion, relieve indigestion, and alleviate symptoms of constipation. It contains natural enzymes and dietary fiber that promote healthy bowel movements and support overall gut health.
Antioxidant Activity: Tamarind is rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols and flavonoids. These compounds help protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress caused by harmful free radicals. Regular consumption of tamarind water can contribute to overall antioxidant support and help maintain cellular health.
Satiety: Tamarind water can help promote a feeling of fullness or satiety, which may be beneficial for weight management. The fiber content in tamarind can contribute to increased satiety and reduced calorie intake, aiding in portion control and healthy eating habits.
Refreshing Flavor: Tamarind water has a unique sweet and tangy taste that can be incredibly refreshing, especially during hot weather. It serves as a flavorful alternative to sugary beverages, helping to reduce overall sugar consumption.
To prepare tamarind water, soak tamarind pulp or pods in water for a few hours, then strain the liquid to remove any solids. You can adjust the concentration of tamarind to suit your taste preferences.
It’s important to note that while tamarind water offers potential health benefits, moderation is key. Excessive consumption of tamarind water may lead to increased sugar intake or digestive discomfort in some individuals.
Remember to join our community of food lovers at Eatlo Community to connect with others, share your experiences, and discover more about incorporating tamarind water and other healthy beverages into your daily routine.
Please do have a look of our wide variety of products prepared using Tamarind:
A 100g of tamarind offers 2.3g protein, 5.1g fiber, 62.5g carbs, and only 0.6g niacin. Additionally, it’s an amazing source of vitamin A and C, iron, folate, and niacin.
Also, tamarind offers about 92mg of magnesium, 628mg of potassium, and 74mg of calcium. Isn’t it a nutrient powerhouse?
Let’s explore what this natural package of nutrition has in store for your health:
1. Loads of Antioxidants
The devour-worthy pulp is a powerhouse of antioxidants. Tamarind is full of phytonutrients-the health-protective compounds that are heart-healthy, anti-cancerous, and anti-diabetic.
Its phytonutrients such as catechin, epicatechin, apigenin, and procyanidin B2 combat free radicals in your body. These along with tartaric acid are effective in preventing inflammatory response and, in turn, oxidative stress.
Other than that, tamarind also contains geraniol which prevents pancreatic cancer.
2. Anti-cancerous Properties
Tamarind contains phytonutrients and tartaric acid. They lower oxidative stress and prevent chronic cancer. It also contains the naturally-occurring compound geraniol which prevents pancreatic cancer.
An animal study analyzing tamarind seed extract found that tamarind blocks the cancer cell’s signal pathway.
3. Heart-Healthy Pulp
Tamarind is rich in potassium, high fiber, flavonoids, and antioxidants. An animal study confirms that tamarind pulp reduces bad cholesterol. It also improves good cholesterol and decreases triglyceride levels.
The pulp is vital for removing fat plaques built up in arteries that increase the risk of atherosclerosis.
Research also concluded that tamarind aids in lowering diastolic blood pressure. Thanks to a whopping 753mg of potassium that’s an amazing vasodilator. It helps the vessel to dilate and relax to maintain normal blood pressure.
What’s more? The anti-inflammatory anti-oxidative power of tamarind prevents inflammations in arteries and heart chambers.
4. Hepatoprotective Properties
Tamarind pulp extract has liver-protective properties due to its high antioxidant count. Particularly, procyanidins protect the liver from oxidative damage.
You can lower the risk of fatty liver disease by adding tamarind to your diet, reports ScienceDirect.
Please do have a look of our wide variety of products prepared using Tamarind:
Tamarind is a perfect add-on to your quick weight-loss diet. It contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA) that can trim the fat. A recent study found that tamarind inhibits trypsin, which helps reduce food cravings.
It has also been proven that tamarind naturally boosts your serotonin levels. It is effective in curbing appetite and helps you burn more fat.
6. Improves Muscle and Nerve Functions
Tamarind is rich in vitamin B. Thiamine is an important component of vitamin B-complex. It enhances nerve and muscle functions by improving reflux actions.
The research found that xyloglucan in tamarind aids in the growth of healthy brain cells and spinal cells. It shows how tamarind cravings in pregnancy are helping you and your unborn child.
7. Boosts Digestive Health
Tamarind acts as a natural laxative. It helps to treat and even prevents both diarrhea and constipation. It works by stimulating gastric juices that help improve your digestion.
Tamarind
How to Add Tamarind to Your Diet?
Tamarind paste is used in sauces, dips, curries, marinades, and other Asian dishes.
To use, take a compressed block of tamarind and soak it in lukewarm water for 10 minutes. Strain it and use the liquid to prepare tamarind juice. Add 15ml of tamarind juice to 4-6 tbsp. of lukewarm water to prepare tamarind concentrate. You can add this to flavor rice, fish, meat, and more.
Tamarind concentrate can also use to prepare tropical drinks.
Is Tamarind Safe for Everyone?
Tamarind is generally safe for most people when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is widely used as a culinary ingredient and has been consumed for centuries without any significant safety concerns.
However, as with any food, individual reactions can vary. Some people may be allergic to tamarind or have sensitivities to it. If you have known allergies or sensitivities to tamarind or related ingredients, it’s best to avoid consuming it.
Additionally, if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs and potential interactions with medications.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also exercise caution and consult their healthcare provider before consuming tamarind, as there is limited research on its safety in these populations.
Overall, tamarind is considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation, but it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or specific health conditions.
How Much Tamarind is Safe to Eat?
In order to reap the benefits of tamarind properly, it is recommended to eat only 10gm of Tamarind in a day to keep fluoride intake within limits.
Final Verdict
Munch on tamarind for weight loss, digestive benefits, heart health, and whatnot. Enjoy tamarind, an appetizing pulpy delight without guilt (but within safe limits).
7 Health Benefits of Tamarind During Pregnancy, click here
Read 7 Medical Health Benefits of Turmeric, click here
The petals are natural painkillers. One of the best examples of this is the amazing health benefits of the rhododendron flower.
The national flower of Nepal and the state flower of Himachal Pradesh in India, the flower is not only an attraction in springtime but a natural cure for diarrhea, inflammations, headaches, and bacterial and fungal infections.
According to WHO (2000), about 65% of the global population utilizes the medicinal properties of the plant for treatment and up to 80% of the Indian population uses it for curing several diseases.
Rhododendron flowers
Traditionally, rhododendron flowers are used to make dried powders, pastes, pickles, and chutneys (dips mixed with mint leaves, salt, and anardana).
A mine of phytochemicals, the health benefits of Rhododendron are due to its antifungal, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, especially the Rhododendron honey.
Depending on the season you might get your hands on a drink made from this legendary stock, it’s mostly made in small batches and is available for a limited time only. To know more about it, please Click Here.
For ages, the homeopathic medicine system use rhododendron flowers and leaves to make medicines to cure various diseases. To know what wonders it does to your body, read on:
1. A Natural Pain Killer
Applying the leave paste of the rhododendron tree on the forehead cures the headaches. On top of that, the paste is used as a poultice on wounds and inflamed skin due to its potent astringent properties.
And juice extract from the flowers of the tree helps relieve stomach aches. Animal studies found that rhododendron extracts pacify stimuli of pain in rats.
2. Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Numerous homeopathic and Ayurveda medicines utilize rhododendron petals and leave them to cure inflammations, especially gout, arthritis, and bronchitis.
Packed with phytochemicals such as saponin, flavonoid, tannins, and more, the plant extract soothes inflammation immediately.
Moreover, rhododendron flowers contain two anti-inflammatory chemicals ‘Quercetin’ and ‘Rutin’. Where quercetin provides effective relief from inflammation in the kidney, prostate and urinary bladder and Rutin treats mouth ulcers, gastrointestinal tract infections, and osteoarthritis.
3. Heart-Healthy Petals
The juice of rhododendron flowers lowers blood pressure and bad cholesterol. Its antioxidant properties reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.
Quercetin is highly effective in treating hypertension, atherosclerosis, and other factors leading to heart ailments. Whereas Rutin prevents the formation of blood clots increasing the chances of a heart attack.
Rhododendron’s petals contain an antioxidant ‘hyper in’ that inhibits action of various glucose enzymes, causing a drop in blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
In an animal study on rats with diabetes mellitus, Rhododendron honey effectively helped in lowering blood glucose and lipid levels.
In fact, rhododendron honey (also known as wild, mad, and toxic honey) is being used since ancient times to treat several disorders. However, beware that it’s may be toxic because an excess of this honey can cause vertigo and arterial hypotension.
5. Antimicrobial Properties
Rhododendrons contain bioactive steroids and phytochemicals that have antimicrobial properties. Lab studies of the flowers concluded their effectiveness against different strains of bacteria.
Moreover, it contains two powerful flavonoids ‘Quercetin’ and ‘P-coumaric’ that maintain healthy gut flora against the foreign microbial activity.
6. Boosts Immunity
Locals consume rhododendron petals as it strengthens their immune response preventing allergic responses due to changes in weather. They experience a lower risk of asthma, allergies, hives, and hay fever, thanks again to Quercetin.
Moreover, if you mix these dried leaves with tobacco and inhale the smoke, it helps cure respiratory diseases naturally.
Blooming RhododendronProcessing Rhododendron petalsPetalsBenefits of Rhododendron flowers
7. Liver-Healthy
Used in Ayurveda medicine as a liver tonic, it reduces the risk of liver damage. The hepatoprotective properties of rhododendron flowers comes from Quercetin and other phytochemicals which have powerful antioxidant properties.
Quercetin and Rutin in rhododendron prevent oxidative damage to normal cells that leads to mutation and then cancer. Moreover, these antioxidants also inhibit the growth of existing cancer cells and, ultimately, lower the risk of cancer.
Final Verdict
The ayurvedic medicine system has been using rhododendron flowers since ancient times to make medicine. But nowadays, several studies are being done proving the benefits of these seasonal flowers that are not just a treat for the eyes but for the body too.
They make amazing Chutnies out of it in the Himalayas, one of the variants made from fresh batches every year is listed on Masala Monk’s store, availability might vary on stock, to check the current status, Click Here.
Interested in a drink made out of Rhodo – Click Here.
Galgal (Hill lemon), native to Eastern Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand in India & Nepal are large fragrant lemons commonly used in Indian curries and traditional medicines.
Galgal is one of the three earliest citrus species from which other citrus varieties were developed through natural or artificial hybridization.
Not only is the hill lemon beneficial for our health, but its nutritious thick rind is also used for medicinal purposes.
Interestingly, Galgal (also known as khatta or hill lemon) can withstand as much as 25 F temperature. Moreover, these pulpy Hill lemons are highly acidic and minimal in sugar content.
Please do have a look of our wide variety of products prepared using citrus fruits like Galgal & Lemon:
If you are unsure about adding Galgal to your food, read on to know the amazing benefits of hill lemons:
1. Promotes Cardiac Health
Being a good source of vitamin C, Galgal or citrus lowers the risk of heart strokes.
Intake of a commonly-found lemon fulfills 51% of your daily vitamin C need. In comparison, Galgal has a higher concentration of vitamin C.
Research has shown that adding vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C to your diet greatly reduces the risk of heart disease.
In addition to vitamin C, Galgal lemons have high fiber and potassium content that also play a role in lowering the risk of heart attacks
2. Helps With Weight Loss
Lemons are commonly used in weight-loss diets. One of the reasons is a higher concentration of pectin fiber that expands in the stomach to give you a fuller feeling for a long.
However, pectic isn’t found in lemon juice but in lemon pulp and rind. Galgal lemons have thicker rinds that are rich in pectin.
A study conducted on mice following a flattening diet were given polyphenol extracts from lemon peels. The mice gained minimal weight compared to the other mice group.
Thus, Galgal rinds are effective in promoting faster weight loss.
Please do have a look of our wide variety of products prepared using citrus fruits like Galgal & Lemon:
Vegans are often anaemic because our blood easily absorbs iron (heme iron) from chicken, meat, and fish, but doesn’t absorb iron (non-heme) from plant foods properly. Adding vitamin C and citric acids to your diet promotes easy absorption of Iron.
Therefore, Galgal, rich in vitamin C and citric acid, prevents anaemia by increasing iron absorption from plant-based foods.
Therefore, Indian households who use Galgal along with vegan foods are less likely to suffer from anaemia.
4. Improves Digestive Health
Galgal contain only about 10% carbs, mostly as simple sugars or soluble fiber.
They are a rich source of pectin, a soluble fiber responsible for several health benefits. It not only improves gut health but also slows down the digestion of starch and sugar, which leads to low blood sugar levels.
However, most of this fiber is present in the pulp rather than in Galgal juice.
5. Lower Risk of Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are formed due to the crystallization of waste products that build up in your kidneys. People who get kidney stones once often get them frequently.
The citric acid present in Galgal helps in preventing kidney stones by increasing urine pH and volume. It reduces the chances of formation of kidney stones due to continual washing out of kidneys.
Surprisingly, only about ½ cup of Galgal juice a day can considerably lower the risk of kidney stone formation.
Please do have a look of our wide variety of products prepared using citrus fruits like Galgal & Lemon:
Hill lemons are a rich source of flavonoids, especially carotenoids. These phytonutrients are anti-inflammatory and protect the cells against oxidative stress and cell damage that leads to cancer.
Galgal lemons are full of antioxidants to prevent cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and age-related cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Galgal (Hill Lemon)
How to use Galgal at Home?
In Uttarakhand, the Galgal pulp is added in salads (mixed with chutney of mustard leaves) with a little seasoning and smoked effect.
Its juicy pulp is also used to make concentrates known as ‘chukh’ when fresh hill lemons aren’t available. Galgal is most commonly used to make murabba or pickles for its thick rind.
Final Verdict
Galgal lemons are rich in nutrient and adding it to your diet promotes heart health, cognitive health, and kidney health. Unlike limes, these large-sized lemons are a richer source of vitamin C, citric acids, pectin, and phytonutrients.
