spices Archives - Page 11 of 11

Posted on September 25, 2022November 19, 2022 by Anuja Rawat — Leave a comment

4 Benefits of Coriander Seeds for Diabetes

Enhance flavors, relish the aroma, and garnish your BBQs and curries; the more the better. If you are a diabetic, coriander seeds for diabetes should be your new best friend.

Coriander or Cilantro whatever you may call it, comes from the Coriandrum sativum plant, a cousin of parsley, celery, and carrots.

Before unraveling the benefits, here’s a fun fact: Coriander is the dried powdered or seed variety of the plant, while Cilantro is the fresh leaves and stem part of the plant.

Diabetes is a condition where the pancreas does not produce adequate insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. So, you experience a spike in blood sugar levels. If it remains uncontrolled, it can lead to further fatal health conditions.

But your favorite aromatic spice coriander seeds can improve your diabetic health.

Nutritional Value of Coriander

Only 10 grams of coriander seeds or fresh cilantro can do wonders for your health. Fresh cilantro contains 92% water while coriander seeds contain 8.9% water. That’s why cilantro has a low mineral count per 10 grams.

Cilantro is full of vitamins (vitamins A, E, and K). Whereas coriander seeds for diabetes are rich in minerals (iron, magnesium, manganese, riboflavin, thiamine, and calcium). Making coriander seeds is helpful in managing diabetes.

With so much to offer, lets dive into the benefits of coriander seeds for diabetes:

1. Delivers Anti-Hyperglycemic Compounds

Coriander seeds for diabetes are most effective in lowering blood sugar levels. As per a study published in The British Journal of Nutrition¸, coriander seed extracts have several compounds that are anti-hyperglycemic in effect. These compounds are discharged into the bloodstream and mimic insulin to control your blood sugar levels.

Several animal studies also suggest that coriander seeds lower blood sugar by increasing enzyme activity helping in the removal of sugar from the blood.

2. Controls Insulin Release

Coriander seeds aid in managing insulin activity and keeping blood sugar levels within limits. A rat study published in the US National Library of Medicine found that coriander seeds managed the release of insulin from pancreatic beta-cells in diabetic rats induced with streptozotocin.

Moreover, the ethanol found in coriander seeds for diabetes is effective in lowering glucose serum. It’s well-known for boosting insulin production from beta-cells of the pancreas. This is helpful for diabetics suffering from type-2 diabetes with minimal insulin production.

3. Similar Effect as Diabetic Medicine

A few lab studies have found coriander seeds for diabetes to be as effective as diabetic medicines. A study conducted on obese and diabetic rats found that a single dose (20mg/kg) of coriander seed extract lowered blood sugar in 6 hours as much as diabetic medicine glibenclamide does.

A similar study on rats found coriander seeds to lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin production compared to the controlled group.

4. Improve Digestion

Coriander seeds are being used for ages for their digestive benefits. Coriander seeds have potent antioxidant properties and are rich in dietary fiber that aid in better bowel movement. Thus, with improved digestion, you will experience balanced blood sugar levels.

How Coriander Seeds Help Control Diabetes?

Apart from the benefits listed, there’s still more to coriander seeds for diabetes. A diabetic diet only consists of foods with a most of 55 glycemic indexes (GI). The reason is that foods with a low GI are digested and absorbed easily compared to high GI foods. Where coriander seeds only have a GI of 33.

Furthermore, coriander seeds are full of fiber. Thus, it gives you a feeling of fullness for longer preventing binge eating—a common reason for sugar spikes. For type-2 diabetes patients, this helps them manage weight.

How to Use Coriander Seeds to Control Diabetes?

To extract the most benefits, the best practice is to soak 10g of coriander seeds in 2-liter water overnight. Drink the water on an empty stomach to keep your diabetes in check the entire day. You can continue to drink the water throughout the day.

Final Verdict

The use of coriander seeds for diabetes can prevent excess sugar spikes. It works as an inexpensive anti-diabetic drug to keep you from overeating and manage your blood glucose levels. Moreover, regular intake of coriander seeds also reduces the risk of cardiac diseases, prediabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Head to your pantry and prepare the magic potion now.

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To know how Coriander Seeds can be used and to see some examples of food products that are made using it, Click here

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Masala Monk – The Gourmet Store

Posted on August 16, 2022November 19, 2022 by Anuja Rawat — 2 Comments

5 ways to use Fenugreek Seeds for Weight Loss

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.

—————————————- Also Check Out ————————————-

To know how Fenugreek seeds can be used and to see some examples of food products that are made using it, Click here

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Masala Monk – The Gourmet Store

Posted on March 11, 2022November 19, 2022 by Anuja Rawat — Leave a comment

7 Benefits of Bay Leaf during Pregnancy

Bay Leaf or sweet bay is an herbal leaf.

It is used to make medicines. Popularly known as ‘bay laurel’, the herb was used by Greeks for crowning heroes with bay leaf wreaths. The award of the ‘sweet bay leaves’ can only be useful for few people. So, let’s find out how beneficial is the consumption of bay leaf during pregnancy?

Bay leaves are full of antioxidants, iron, and potassium, which are heart healthy. Moreover, their historical use speaks a lot about their antioxidant, anti-fungal, and healing properties.

Bay leaves are well-known for treating cancer, stomach issues, diabetes, pain, and much more. Most of all, they have a sedative effect that may cause excessive drowsiness.

Let’s dive into the benefits of bay leaves and how to use bay leaves during pregnancy:

1. Lowers Blood Sugar Level

Early research concludes that adding a ground bay leaf to your diet twice a day alongside diabetes medicine helps in reducing blood sugar levels before meals.

2. Improves Cholesterol

Patients having abnormally high cholesterol or blood fat level (dyslipidemia) benefit from bay leaf tea. The research concluded that having bay leaves tea for 10 days may help improve good cholesterol levels (HDL or high-density lipoprotein).

However, there is no evidence if bay leaves improve the other lipid levels.

3. Prevent Kidney Diseases

Bay leaves are good for kidney health. Studies have shown that bay leaves prevent kidney stones and other kidney issues. The study revealed that bay leaf helps in the reduction of urease in the body and possibly helps in toxin removal as well as ease urination.

4. Good for Stomach Health

Bay leaf tea has a positive effect on the stomach. The organic compounds of sweet bay leaf relieve an upset stomach.
In fact, a cup of bay leaf tea is great for relieving flatulence, intestinal discomfort, and abdominal cramps.

5. Promotes Sleep

Bay leaves contain sedative compounds that promote relaxation and drowsiness. Bay leaf tea is an excellent natural remedy for insomnia and other sleep problems.

Therefore, taking bay leaf tea an hour or two before going to bed may help you enjoy a restful sleep.

However, if the bay leaf is taken along with sleep-inducing medicines, it can cause over-drowsiness and extra sleepiness.

6. Relieve Anxiety

Cinnamon and bay leaf tea acts as a natural treatment to relieve anxiety and stress. The ingredients leave a mildly soothing and calming effect on the nervous system.

7. Good for Skin

Ground bay leaf treats acne, inflammation, and other skin irritations. It is also one of the well-known natural remedy for treatment of boils, dandruff, etc.

Although bay leaf has incredible benefits, there is a lack of research and evidence on the health benefits of bay leaf.

How to Add Bay Leaves to Your Diet?

In general, bay leaf, as well as bay leaf oil, is quite safe to add to food. Ground bay leaf is also safe if taken in moderate amounts. Mostly bay leaf is cooked as a whole for adding a little flavor to cuisines and teas, which is very safe.

However, taking bay leaf as a whole is very unsafe as it cannot be digested. The leaf cannot be digested, therefore, it can possibly get stuck in the throat or pierce the intestinal lining.

Is it Safe to Eat Bay Leaf During Pregnancy?

Bay leaf is heart-healthy, great for digestion, and reducing stress. Hormonal imbalances during pregnancy can cause a lot of emotional stress.

Pertaining to the use of bay leaves in cooking is safe during pregnancy. However, bay leaves shouldn’t be taken as an herbal supplement due to their several possible side effects. Moreover, there isn’t any scientific data on the benefits of the use of bay leaf during pregnancy, so it’s better to avoid it.

Eating bay leaf as a whole is unsafe during pregnancy or otherwise. The leaf is indigestible and passes through the digestive lining intact. It can get lodged in the throat or cause piercing in the intestinal linings.

How Many Bay Leaves Should I Use?

If you really want to add bay leaves to your diet, it’s best to use only about 2 to 3 bay leaves. Otherwise, its taste can overtake the entire dish.

Cinnamon and bay leaf tea benefit in terms of their soothing and relaxing effect. You can also use a cinnamon and bay leaf tea for pregnancy after consulting your doctor.

Final Verdict

There is not enough research on the benefits of bay leaf for pregnant or breastfeeding moms. It’s best to take bay leaf tea after consulting your doctor.

Apart from that, Bay leaf might interfere with blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Moreover, bay leaf can also slow down your brain functions, which if combined with sleep medicines or anesthesia during surgery, can prolong recovery and the healing process.

—————————————- Also Check Out ————————————-

To know how Bay Leaf can be used and to see some examples of food products that are made using it, Click here

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Masala Monk – The Gourmet Store

Posted on October 3, 2020October 3, 2020 by Anuja Rawat — Leave a comment

Pickle it Right: Are you storing it well?

Shakespeare contributed most of the phrases and metaphors to the English literature which is commonly used in our daily life all across the globe. His artistic freedom authorized him to introduce many more idioms and adjectives to the language, just like the roadside Dhabha wala bhaiya loads my plate of Rajma Chawal with chopped onions, green chillies, and a variety of vegetable pickles.

In 16^th century, he peppered his plays “The tempest” with a phrase:

TRINCULO:
I have been in such a pickle since I saw you last that,
I fear me, will never out of my bones:
I shall not fear fly-blowing.

I wondered what pickle he was eating that made him pen down this statement and the following conclusion, because I am sure if he had tasted an Indian pickle (Achar), his tide would have turned.

Personally, dreaming about “Achar” fills me with a euphoric feeling. It takes me back to my childhood summer visits to my grandmother’s kitchen, which had lined up big glass jars, filled with mangoes pieces soaked in spices and mustard oil, covered with cotton cloth, and soaked in the bright summer sun. These mango pickles were then packed in airtight jars. A carefully prepared procedure of do’s and don’ts was followed so that these delicious pickles can last as long as possible while retaining its true taste. (And of course, she used to add a ton of love too).

Sun-cooked to preserve the nutrients and taste

Homemade with love, without preservatives

In India, three main types of pickling techniques are practiced. These are preserving in oil, vinegar, or saltwater brine, out of which the oil recipe is most commonly practiced. As these recipes have passed on from generations, so here comes the real question “Are we storing our pickles in the right way?” “Do you think you are the deserving heir of your family pickling techniques?” or “Are you ready to pass your family traditional pickling technique to your kids?”

As most of the ingredients used in Indian pickles are natural preservatives, the amount and ways to use those preservatives play an important role while storing these pickles. Here are some tips straight from my grandmother’s diary which will help you to store your pickle like a pro!

While using oil as a preservative, you should always dry the fruits, vegetables or berries after slicing so that it releases all its moisture
Each slice of a pickle should be soaking in oil, which will prevent it from future air contact. You can ensure this by shaking the jar after filling
Always store your pickle in ceramic or glass jars
Make sure that your pickle jar is washed, dried, cleaned, and sterilized properly
Make sure you fill the jar to the brim and leave no space for air
Before closing the jar lid, place a makhmal/cotton cloth on the jar top. This further soaks any left out moisture inside
Occasionally, it’s recommended to keep your pickle jars in the sun for a few hours
Always use a dry stainless steel spoon to mix or to serve
Always store the jar in a cool and dry place
In case of pickles preserved in vinegar, avoid using metal lids

Khundru Pickle by Masala Monk
Aam Pickle by Masala Monk
Karonda Pickle by Masala Monk
Kamrakh Pickle by Masala Monk
Tattaiya Chilli Pickle by Masala Monk
Red Radish Pickle by Masala Monk

As I dig into ancient Egyptian history and English literature, Cleopatra attributed her good looks to a hearty diet of pickles, but not to forget it was not just the good looks that made her the queen of the Nile. She was a great philosopher, mathematician, astronomer and knew a dozen of languages that made her so desirable. Pickle is like Cleopatra. It cannot be defined by just its taste and tanginess, it also carries a ton of healthy bacteria, along with a range of essential minerals & vitamins like B12, which helps in food digestion and provides antioxidants for the body. So why to regret tempting and drooling over a good jar of homemade pickle? Our love for anything in this universe isn’t supposed to be easy. But it should be worth it, so is making, storing & having a tasty pickle.

Before you enter your next pickle binge, do keep in mind that pickles have high levels of sodium and fats. Gorging it can cause an increase in body cholesterol level. So in order to keep enjoying your pickle, “eat your pickle like a pickle so you don’t end in a pickle”.