We all use curry leaves for various Indian dishes such as curries, snacks, chutneys, etc. I use them for all kind of masalas while cooking. Most of us use them in limited proportions (maybe 1 or 2 twigs) mainly for their flavour and distinctive aroma. You can even grow a curry leaves tree in your home garden. I have one at home!
Besides their obvious use for cooking, curry leaves have great health benefits too. They are rich in antioxidants, iron, vitamins, calcium, fiber and other helpful nutrients.
The health benefits of curry leaves are many. Here are a few of the benefits I can vouch for.
Helps heal burns and wounds
If you have a not-so-deep burn or wound, you can apply a curry leaves paste to accelerate the healing process. If I burn my hand while cooking, the first thing I do is prepare a quick paste to apply on the burnt area. The alkaloids present in the leaves are said to have healing effects. Also, curry leaves are known to have anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-oxidant properties that will help us shield our bodies from infections. Eat curry leaves on a regular basis or make a juice once in a while and drink it.
Known to be good for eyesight
Our elders have always told us that curry leaves are good for the eyes and it is no myth. The Vitamin A present in the leaf helps keep the cornea hydrated and improves eyesight. It is also said to prevent cloud formation in front of the eyes.
Helps improve digestion
The high fiber content in curry leaves helps improve digestion by treating gastrointestinal issues. It helps reduce diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, nausea, and piles. The improvement of the digestive system is said to automatically help in reducing unhealthy body fat.
Prevents anaemia
Anaemia is caused by the deficiency of iron in the body. Curry leaves are rich in iron and folic acid and hence help increase the haemoglobin as well as red blood cell count in the body. Regular consumption of curry leaves will, thus, help phase out tiredness and constant fatigue.
Effective in dental care
The anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of curry leaves help maintain good dental health. The oils present in the leaves strengthen the teeth and gums and removes any bad odour present.
Good for the skin
Curry leaves not only contain Vitamin A but also Vitamin C. The presence of abundant vitamin types plus anti-bacterial attributes makes it highly beneficial for the skin. You can even apply the paste on your skin for a few minutes and wash it off with water.
Great for the hair
If you have rough or damaged hair, you can apply the curry leaves paste on your scalp. Mix it with curd, coconut oil or mustard oil and leave it on for about 15 minutes before you wash it. This will leave your hair smooth and silky.
Now that you know the various health benefits of curry leaves, make sure you include it in your diet to reap all the goodness of these leaves.
Know of any other benefits of curry leaves? Let me know in the comments!
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