Scientific name: Tamarindus indica
Description: The tamarind tree is native to tropical regions of Africa, particularly the Sudan, but it has spread since to almost all tropical areas of the world. The tamarind pods are about five inches long which contain seeds and a sweet&sour pulp. It can be consumed as a raw fruit, candied, dried and ground into a spice or when it is fully ripe it can be added to dessert.
Parts used: Pulp of fruit
Health benefits:
Tamarind has many nutritional components such as having a significant level of vitamin C, vitamin E, B vitamins, calcium, iron, phosphorous, potassium and manganese. Tamarind is also rich in dietary fiber such as tannins, mucilage and pectin.There are also a number of organic compounds that make tamarind a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.
Medicinal properties and uses:
Tamarind fruit is also cathartic, febrifuge, antiseptic and refrigent. It is used as an Ayurvedic medicine for gastric problem, digestion problems and in protecting the heart.
Good for Digestive Health, Bile disorder, Constipation, Diarrhea: Tamarind is a natural laxative. It is also a bilious substance, that stimulates the activity of bile and help dissolve food faster. Studies have shown tamarind to be effective against chronic diarrhea as well.
Sunstroke: Two tablespoons of thick tamarind paste is an excellent home remedy for with mild sunstroke.
Healthy Heart: Tamarind is effective in reducing blood pressure and blood cholesterol. The potassium in tamarind may be responsible for the reduction in blood pressure while the fiber content is responsible for the reduction in cholesterol by scraping excess LDL cholesterol from the veins and arteries.
Nerve Function: One of the most significant vitamin elements of tamarind is the B complex especially the high quantities of thiamine. Thiamine is responsible for improving nerve function,
as well as muscle development.
Weight Loss: Tamarind has a compound called hydroxycitric acid (HCA) which inhibits an enzyme in the body that specifically helps store fat. It also suppresses the appetite by increasing the serotonin neurotransmitter.
Tamarind is use as a gargle for sore throats.
Tamarind is a good source of antioxidants that fight against cancer.
Tamarind Juice:
Use a high power blender. IF not, then soak tamarind pod overnight or for several hours to soften it. The seeds can be either removed or not, depending on your preference.
Put a cup of tamarind in blender and 1 1/2 cups of water. You may add a bit of ginger or vanilla or both. Add a tablespoon of honey.
Caution: As with all the medicinal plants found on this website. It is best to consult your doctor before trying any supplements or medicinal plants.