Tamarind is a tropical fruit which is shaped like a bean-pod. Once the pod is broken the flesh from the bean-like fruit can be eaten in a variety of ways. Most of us enjoy the saliva inducing taste of tamarind balls or the sweet deliciousness of tamarind jam. Some of us indulge in a refreshing glass of the drink without giving thought to the health benefits. There is so much more to tamarind than its ability to stimulate our salivary glands at the mention of its name.
Tamarind is a mild laxative
Due to the tartaric acid, fiber and potassium found in tamarind, it serves as a mild laxative. Traditional medicine employs its use for people who are constipated.
A rich source of antioxidants
Tamarind is a rich source of antioxidants which enhances the body’s natural immune defenses.
Anti-inflammatory Agent
The pulp as well as the leaves of the plant helps treat or prevent inflammation. These anti-inflammatory properties are found in the polyphenols in tamarind.
Anti-aging Benefits
The antioxidants found therein causes individuals to remain young and healthy as it helps in preventing aging.
May offer anti-diabetic properties
Tamarind seed extract controls the insulin effect. It potentially offers the benefit of regulating blood sugar of those with diabetes.
So, the next time you have some tamarind, delight in the fact that you’re not just exciting your tastebuds but you’re helping to maintain a youthful and healthier you.
References
CY Lim, SM Junit, MA Abdulla, AA Aziz, (2013). In vivo biochemical and gene expression analyses of the antioxidant activities and hypocholesterolaemic properties of Tamarindus indica fruit pulp extract. PloS 2013.
KF Azman, Z Amom, A Azlan, NM Esa, RM Ali, ZM Shah, et al. (2012). Antiobesity effect of Tamarindus indica L. pulp aqueous extract in high-fat diet-induced obese rats. J Nat Med, 66 (2)
Shubrook N, (2021, 17 March). Top Six Health Benefits of Tamarind BBC Good Food
