Curry leaves are the main ingredient in many Indian recipes. But most people would just throw it away while having the food. But if we realize the health benefits and nutrient contents of a curry leaf, we will definitely have a second thought before throwing it aside next time.
The Scientific name of curry leaf is Murraya koenigii. It belongs to Rutaceae family. India and Andaman islands are considered as its native place. But today, it has been planted and cultivated across the world.
There are broadly two types of curry leaf trees that are commonly found. Those are regular curry leaf tree and dwarf curry leaf tree. Leaves of regular curry leaf trees are small and it has both bitter and sweet taste to it. Dwarf curry leaf tree leaves are little bigger in size and have a bitter taste. Bark and stem of dwarf curry leaf trees carry medicinal properties just like its leaves.
Curry leaves are not usually cooked separately and consumed. It is added to other recipes to enhance the taste and aroma of the dish. It is one of the irreplaceable ingredients in many Indian recipes.
Curry leaves are rich in many nutrients. In particular, it has very high levels of beta-carotene. But we get maximum benefits of out beta-carotene only when we consume it in its raw and uncooked form. Beta-carotene is what gets converted into Vitamin – A during the digestion process. It is essential for healthy eyes, teeth, bones, and skin. It is rich in amino acids like aspartic acid, alanine, and proline.
100 grams of Curry leaves contain
- Water – 70%
- Protein – 6.1%
- Carbohydrate – 18.7%
- Fat – 1%
- Fibre – 6.4%
- Phosphorus – 0.57%
- Iron – 7 unit
- Vitamin A – 12600 unit
- Vitamin B – 4 unit
Additionally, it has thiamine, riboflavin, thiazine, and folic acid.
There was a study that was conducted on curry leaves by Indian Institute of Medical Biology in Kolkatta, India and George Town University in Washington, USA. The study revealed several truths.
- Nutrients present in curry leaves not only offers aroma, but it is also the best antioxidant.
- As it controls and destroys cancer cells, it can cure initial stage cancers.
- It reduces the risk of heart diseases.
- Increases memory.
- It can cure the gastric problem, diarrhea, and other stomach disorders.
- Prevents infections in the stomach and keeps the gut clean.
By consuming raw and clean curry leaves in empty stomach in the morning will fetch us many health benefits. Let us look at some of them.
It cures Anemia
As curry leaves are rich in iron, people with anemia problems can consume little curry leaves with two dates every morning will increase their white blood cells level in their blood. This will help to cure anemia completely.
Dissolves Fat
Chew on some curry leaves in empty stomach first thing in the morning. Swallow its extracts and do not spit out the leaves. When you do this regularly, it will dissolve all the excess fat in the stomach or abdomen region and keeps you in good shape.
Keeps Diabetes under control
People suffering from diabetes can have 10 curry leaves in the morning in empty stomach and another 10 leaves in the evening. They should chew the leaves slowly and consume it. This will keep their blood sugar levels under control. Additionally, they can also reduce the use of medications for diabetes.
Prevents Heart Diseases
As curry leaves dissolve and eliminates excess fat content in the body, it effectively prevents heart diseases. Additionally, it increases blood circulation, and increase oxygen levels in our body.
Eye Health
Vitamin A present in curry leaves is best for our eyes. It prevents many eye related problems and strengthens our vision.
Cures Digestive problems
People with long-term digestive disorder or digestion problem can try consuming 15 curry leaves first thing early in the morning. This will completely cure all the digestion problems and keeps their gut in good shape.
Protects Liver
Vitamin A and C present in curry leaves will eliminate all the toxin deposition in the liver. Additionally, it will strengthen the working of the liver.
Keeps the Brain active
People who work in areas which demand a lot of thinking and decision-making skills should take curry leaves along with their food. This will enhance their cognitive skills and keeps them more active at work.
Further Reading:
- Top 7 Health Benefits of Orange and Gooseberries a Comparison
- How Fruits and Vegetables Ensures Your Good Health
