Health benefits of tamarind

Tamarind

Tamarind is a type of fruit which originates from Africa. Today, it is mainly grown in India, China, South East Asia, Mexico, Indonesia, Barbados and Jamaica, but it can be also found in southern parts of the United States. Tamarind is used as a spice or a dessert, but since it has many health benefits, it can be used as a remedy as well.

Features

Tamarind fruit has sour taste but the more mature tamarind is, the sweeter it gets. It is rich in vitamins, fibers, carotenes, nutrients and antioxidants. Tamarind is an excellent source of vitamin C. It has also vitamins A and B complex. Tamarind is rich in magnesium, potassium, niacin, riboflavin and iron.

Benefits

Since tamarind contains antioxidants and vitamins, it can help you prevent the cancer or speed up the healing. It can help your heart because it lowers high cholesterol level in the blood. If you have fever, tamarind will help you get rid of it. Taking reasonable amounts of this plant will protect you from flu or cold as well. Gargling the tamarind juice will reduce the soreness in your throat. You can also apply it on the skin if you have inflammation or you can reduce the pain and swelling of your joints. A lotion made of tamarind has antiseptic features. Apply it on the skin if you have sunburns or drink it if you had sunstroke. If you suffer from conjunctivitis, tamarind eye drops may be the best solution for you. Tamarind is also recommended for many problems concerning your digestive system. In case of constipation, tamarind may provide efficient relieve. Bile disorder will go away more quickly if you use tamarind. Tamarind will also help you deal with ulcers and jaundice. It can cure indigestion and other gastric problems. Problems with bleeding hemorrhoids will be reduced if you treat them with tamarind. If you were diagnosed with vitamin C deficiency, tamarind will provide an efficient cure.

Food and Drinks

Tamarind is used in barbecue sauces and other dressings which are eaten with meat, especially in western countries. It can be drunk as a juice, with or without sugar. If you prefer sour refreshing drinks the tamarind juice will be the best option for you. If you like sweet drinks, you can add sugar. You can also make syrup or an ice cream out of tamarind. The tamarind spice can be used in various dishes.