Health Benefits of Pomegranate

Biological Name: Punica granatum

Pomegranate (anar) are considered as the ‘fruits of paradise’ in ancient cultures, and ‘apple of Grenada” in early English. Pomegranate fruit is a native to Persia and the Western Himalayan range and it is considered to be one of the oldest fruits.

The varieties of pomegranate are Balegal, Crab, Cloud, Francis, Freshman and Granada. The side effects of Pomegranate are Allergic reaction, Cold, Breathing difficulty, Irritation, Swelling.  Pomegranates are used in cooking, baking, meal garnishes, juice blends, smoothies, and alcoholic beverages, such as cocktails and wine. It is also cultivated in parts of California and Arizona. They are said to be good sources of vitamins, since it includes vitamin A, C and E, as well as folic acid and also called as “healthy powerhouse” and ‘bad’ cholesterol.

It improves blood circulation and reducing inflammation. Other health benefits include being a cure for stomach disorders, cancer, dental conditions, osteoarthritis, anemia and diabetes, prevent hair loss, and strengthen your hair. It is useful for the treatment of sore throats.

In Different Languages

Spanish                -              Granada

French                 -              Grenade

Filipino                 -              Granada

Hindi                    -              Anar

Tamil                    -              Mathulam pazham

Malayalam            -              Mathulam

Telugu                   -              Danimma pandu

Gujarati                  -             Dalamb

Bengali                   -             Dalim

Marathi                  -              Dalimb

Oriya                      -             Dalimba

Punjabi & Urdu       -             Anar

Nutritional Value of Pomegranates

Nutrients:

Dietary Fiber - 16%

Carbohydrate    -   6%

Calories  -   4%

Protein     - 3%

Vitamins:

Vitamin K    -21%

Vitamin C    - 17%

Folate    -   10%

Vitamin B6     -    4%

Minerals:

Copper    - 8%

Potassium      - 7%

Manganese     -   6%

Phosphorus     -    4%

Health Benefits of Pomegranates

• Provides relief from stomach disorders

• Protects against heart ailments

• Reduces risk of developing cancer

• Lowers dental plaque

• Helps reduce symptoms of anemia

• Curbs risk of delivering premature babies

• Provides youthful & glowing skin

• Prevents hair loss, Promotes longer and healthier hair, Treatment of dandruff.

• Natural hair conditioners and contain nutrients

• Helps overcome impression

• Lowers blood pressure

• protect cardiovascular health

• Good in pregnancy

• Prevents in hair loss

• Improves memory

• Increase appetite

• Avoids low birth weight for newborn infant

• Reduce the possibility of developing Alzheimer’s disease among older generations

• Helps to control aging problems like wrinkles

• Overcome post-menopausal depression.

Note:
% Daily Value per 100g. For e.g. 100g of Pomegranate provides 21% of daily requirement of Vitamin K

Other Benefits

Read More

Amazing Health Benefits of Cucumbers

Cucumber is one of the oldest cultivated crops, believed to have originated in the Indian subcontinent. It is popularly known as Cucumis sativus is a creeper that belongs to the Cucurbitaceous family.

It has a light to dark green color, thin skin, moisture-rich flesh with tiny edible seeds inside, and is enjoyed best in salads, sandwiches, or as a juice. It has a high water content that helps keep your body hydrated, and the low calorie content makes it a great choice for a weight loss diet

In Different Languages:

Hindi               -           ‘khira/kheera’ or ‘kakdi

Tamil               -           ‘Dosakaya’ in ‘Kakkarikkari‘
Malayalam       -           ‘Kani Vellarikka‘
Gujarati           -           ‘Kakdi‘
Bengali            -           ‘Sosha‘
Marathi            -           ‘Kakadi‘
Punjabi            -           ‘Tar

Nutritional Value of Cucumber

Carbohydrates             3%
Protein                         1%
Total Fat                      0.5%
Cholesterol                  0%
Dietary Fibre               1%
Folates                        2%
Riboflavin                   3%
Thiamin                       2%
Vitamin A                   3.5%
Vitamin C                   4.5%
Vitamin E                    0%
Vitamin K                   13.6%
Potassium                    3%
Calcium                       1.6%
Iron                             3.5%
Magnesium                  3%
Manganese                  3.5%
Phosphorus                  3%
Zinc                             2%

Skin Benefits

•     Revitalizes Skin
•     Reverses Skin Tanning
•     Controls Puffiness Of The Eyes
•     Helps Soothe Sunburn
•     Rejuvenates Skin
•     Treats Open Pores
•     Fights Cellulite
•     Reduces Dark Circles
•     Treats Blemishes

Hair Benefits

•     Reduces Hair Fall
•     Gives Shiny Hair

Health Benefits

•     Relieves Constipation
•     Keeps Your Renal System Healthy
•     Aids Digestion
•     Fights Intestinal Worms
•     Maintains Electrolyte Balance
•     Reduces Inflammation
•     Beneficial For Diabetics
•     Is A Cancer Preventive
•     Good For Dental Health
•     Cures Hangover
•     Good For Treating Blood Pressure Issues
•     Detoxifies Your Body
•     Strengthens Bones
•     Treats Alzheimer’s

Other Benefits

•     Acts As A Stain Remover
•     Controls Pests

Read More

Onion's Hidden Health Gems: Unveiling Its Nutritional and Medicinal Wonders

Onions also grew in Chinese gardens as early as 5,000 years ago. Onion contain flavonoids, are also known as ‘companion plants’. Onions also contain mineral components such as calcium, potassium, selenium and phosphorus, and they are a good source of vitamin C, B6, biotin, chromium, magnesium, vitamin B1 and K. Onions have antibiotic, antiseptic, antimicrobial and carminative properties to help you to stay away from infections.

Scientific Name:  Allium cepa.
Originated - central Asia, Iran and Pakistan.

Different Languages

• Tamil  - Vaengayam English - Onion
• Hindi - pyaz or kanda or Dungri
• Telugu - Nirulli / Ullipayalu / Yerra Gaddalu
• Malayalam - Savala
• Kannada  - Ulligadde / Erulli / Neeruli
• Bengali - Pyajj / Piyaz
• Gujarati - Dungri / Kanda
• Marathi  - Kandaa

Nutritional values of Onion:

Nutrients:
Dietary Fiber - 7%
Protein - 2%
Carbohydrates - 3%
Calories - 2%

Vitamins:
Vitamin C - 12%
Vitamin B6 - 6%
Thiamin - 3%
Folate - 5%

Minerals:
Mangnesium - 2%
Potassium - 4%
Manganese – 6%
Phosphorus - 3%

Health benefits of Onion:

• Reduces spread of cancer
• Regulates blood sugar levels
• Relieves sore throat & coughing symptoms
• Provides relief from urinary disorders
• Reduces pain caused by bee sting
• Provides relief from earache
• Relieves stomach ache & treats anemia
• Prevents tooth decay & oral infections
• Boosts immune system

Onions and the Heart:

• Boost beneficial HDL cholesterol
• Thin the blood
• Retard blood clotting
• Lower total blood cholesterol
• Lower triglycerides
• Lower blood pressure

Treatments:

• A small piece of onion can stop bleeding through the nose.
• It can cure insomnia or sleeping disorders. 
• Good night’s sleep.
• Improve the digestive system.

Read More

Thuduvelai (Purple-Fruited Pea Eggplant): A Culinary and Medicinal Gem of Traditional Cuisine

Thuthuvalai  also called as Thoothuvalai Keerai in Tamil Nadu, it belongs to Solanaceae family. Thuthuvalai is used for medicinal purpose and also called as purple fruited pea egg plant and Nightshade.

The purple-fruited pea eggplant, also known as Thuduvelai or Solanum trilobatum, is a species of nightshade plant native to Asia and Africa. It belongs to the Solanaceae family, which includes other popular vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers.

Here are some key points about the purple-fruited pea eggplant:

• Appearance: The purple-fruited pea eggplant typically grows as a small shrub, reaching up to 1-2 meters in height. It produces clusters of small, round, purple berries that resemble miniature eggplants or peas.
• Culinary Uses: In some regions, the purple-fruited pea eggplant is used as a culinary ingredient. The berries are often cooked and incorporated into various dishes, such as curries, stews, soups, and stir-fries. They have a slightly bitter taste and absorb the flavors of the dishes they are cooked with.
• Traditional Medicine: In traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Siddha, various parts of the purple-fruited pea eggplant, including the leaves, berries, and roots, are used for their medicinal properties. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, expectorant, and antipyretic properties.
• Health Benefits: The purple-fruited pea eggplant is believed to offer a range of health benefits. It is used to treat respiratory ailments such as coughs, colds, and asthma. It is also used to alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders, including indigestion, flatulence, and constipation. Additionally, it is sometimes applied topically to treat skin conditions like rashes and wounds.
• Cultural Significance: In some cultures, the purple-fruited pea eggplant holds cultural significance and is used in religious rituals or ceremonies.
• Cultivation: The purple-fruited pea eggplant is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of soil types and growing conditions. It is often grown as a perennial in tropical and subtropical regions but can also be grown as an annual in temperate climates.
• Caution: While the purple-fruited pea eggplant has culinary and medicinal uses in traditional practices, it's essential to exercise caution, especially when using it for medicinal purposes. Some parts of the plant may contain toxic compounds, and improper use or ingestion of large quantities may lead to adverse effects.

Overall, the purple-fruited pea eggplant is a fascinating plant with culinary and medicinal value, deeply rooted in traditional cultures across Asia and Africa. However, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or herbalist before using it for medicinal purposes.

Botanical Name - Solanum trilobatum

NUTRITION IN THUTHUVELAI

• Fiber    -     2.3 g
• Sugar   -      4.6 g
• Calcium   -    334 Mg
• Fat     -   0.7 g
• Calories    -   40
• Water content   -   84.7
• Protein  -   3.9 g
• Mineral Salts    -  3.8 g
• Iron    -    5.0 Mg
• Phosphorus   -   52 Mg

Thuthuvalai in Different Languages

• English - Climbing Brinjal
• Tamil - Thoothuvalai, Thuthuvalai, Tuduvalai, Nittidam, Sandunayattan and Surai.
• Hindi - Kantakaari-Latta
• Malayalam - Tutavalam, Putricunta, Puttacunta, Tudavalam and Putharichunda.
• Telugu - Alarkapatramu, Mullamustil and Kondavuchinta
• Sanskrit -  Kantakaari-Latta, Agnidamani, Agnidamini, Alarka, Vallikantakarika and Achuda
• Kannada - Ambusonde, Ambusondeballi, Chitbadane, Hebbu Sonde Gida, Hebbu Sunde Gida, Mullu Kaaka Munchi, Mullu Mushta and Kakamunji.
• Marathi -  Mothiringnee and Thoodalam
• Oriya - Bryhoti

Health Benefits:

• Good for asthma patients
• Helps to cure lungs disorders, respiratory problems.
• Helps digestion
• Thuthuvalai with cow milk is taken in morning for relieving cough.
• Relieves stomach pain.
• Thuthuvalai leaves produce blood and prevent the thickening of the blood
• Its leaf cures dullnessof hearing.
• Improves mental ability.
• Good for tuberculosis.
• Good for constipation and gastric problems.
• Good for sinus problem.
• Prevents cancer.

Note:
Thoothuvalai as a mosquito repellent

Read More

The Nutritional Powerhouse: Exploring the Health Benefits of Potatoes

Potatoes are one of the most common and important food sources on the planet. The term potato can refer to either the plant or the entire tuber, which is rather shapeless and ugly, in most varieties. Potato contains a wealth of health benefits that make them all the more essential as a staple dietary item. Its scientific name is Solanum Tuberosum, and it is actually a member of the Nightshade family.

These health benefits include their ability to improve digestion, reduce cholesterol levels, boost heart health, protect from polyps, prevent cancer, manage diabetes, strengthen the immune system, reduce signs of aging, protect the skin, increase circulation, reduce blood pressure, maintain fluid balance, reduce insomnia, and boost eye health.

They were first cultivated somewhere between 7,000 and 10,000 years ago in that Central American and South American region and they are native to the Americas, most likely in the Andes, Peru, and Bolivia. they can be prepared in dozens of ways, including baked, fried, sliced, mashed, and many more.

Nutritional values of potatoes   

Nutrients:
Dietary Fiber - 10%
Protein - 5%
Carbohydrates - 5%
Calories - 3%

Vitamins:
Vitamin C - 19%
Vitamin B6 - 12%
Niacin - 5%
Folate - 4%

Minerals:

Manganese - 30%
Copper - 21%
Iron - 18%
Potassium - 12%

Starch Content:Potatoes contain about 17% starch and it is one of the best natural sources of starch. Potato sprouting leads to the conversion of starch into sugar, so you should avoid eating sprouted potatoes.

Note: Most of the nutrients in a potato are just beneath its skin. If you eat the skin along with the potato, you get all these nutrients, or else what you primarily end up eating is just carbohydrates!

Health Benefits of Potatoes

• Weight Gain
• Digestion
• Skin Care
• Scurvy
• Rheumatism
• Inflammation
• Cancer Prevention
• High Blood Pressure
• Brain Function
• Heart Diseases
• Kidney Stones
• Diarrhea
• Good treatments for
• Burns, bruises, sprains, skin problems
• Ulcers, effects of narcotics
•  Prostate cancer, uterine cancer
• Formation of cysts or tumors.

Tips to Reduce Loss of Potato Nutrients

Here are some tips that will help you in reducing the loss of potato nutrients:

• Avoid peeling the potatoes before cooking them.
• When you boil potatoes, first heat the water to its boiling point and then add the potatoes. This will reduce the cooking time and help you maintain the Vitamin C content.
• Minimize frying of potatoes, as 75% of Vitamin C is lost during frying.

Read More

Tomatoes: The Nutrient-Packed Powerhouse and Culinary Staple

The scientific name of tomatoes is Solanum lycopersicum; consist of a large number of antioxidants that have been proven to fight different forms of cancer. It provides a great boost to health, along with improving the flavor of and native to Mexico. However, America and Central America cultivate tomato. to spread. Tomatoes an annual nightshade plant, and they typically weight approximately 4 ounces. It has soft, pinkish rounded red flesh fruits and a number of seeds, as well as a slightly sweet taste. Tomato is used in different foods, including pastas, pizzas, ketchup, various beverages, and as an included flavor element in dishes from breakfast to dinner. They are considered both vegetables and fruits.

Tomato in Different Language:

• ‘Tamatar‘ in Hindi
• ‘Rama Mulaga‘ in Telugu
• ‘Thakkali‘ in Tamil
• ‘Thakkali‘ in Malayalam
• ‘Tameta‘ in Gujarati
• ‘Toamaatar‘ in Bengali
• ‘Tamoto‘ in Marathi

Nutritional Value of Tomatoes:

Nutrients:

• Carbohydrate- 1%
• Protein – 2%
• Calories – 1%
• Dietary fiber – 5%

Vitamins:

• Vitamin C - 21%
• Vitamin A – 17%
• Vitamin K – 10%
• Folate – 4%

Minerals:

• Potassium – 7%
• Manganese – 6%
• Phosphorus – 3%
• Copper - 3%

Health Benefits:

1. Improves eye sight
2. Good stomach health
3. Reduced blood pressure, as well as relief from diabetes
4. It can increase digestion, stimulate blood circulation
5. Reduces Cholesterol and Protects the Heart
6. Improve fluid balance
7. Protect the kidneys
8. Detoxify the body
9. Prevent premature aging
10. Reduce inflammation and related conditions
11. A protective effect against cardiovascular diseases.
12. Lowers hypertension
13. Good for Bones and Teeth 
14. Breast cancer and cancer of the mouth.

Skin Benefits of Tomatoes

• Treats Open Pores
• Glowing Skin
• Treats Skin Conditions
• Treats Acne
• Prevents Excess Oil Secretion
• Prevents Signs of Ageing
• Acts as a Natural Sunscreen
• Acts as a Stress Reliever
• Natural Bleaching Agent
• Prevents Sunburn
• Smooth Skin
• Removes Dead Skin Cells

 Rich Source of Vitamins and Minerals:

• Vitamin C is a natural antioxidant
• A single tomato can provide about 40% of the daily vitamin C requirement.
• It prevents against cancer-causing free radicals from damaging the body’s systems.
• It also contains abundant vitamin A and potassium, as well as iron.
• Potassium - maintaining nerve health and iron is essential for maintaining normal blood health. Vitamin K - essential in blood clotting and controls bleeding.

Read More

Unlocking the Wellness Potential: Exploring the Health Benefits of Lychee

The scientific name of Lychee is Litchi chinensis, a soapberry family. It is a soft and pulpy, white or pink in color, strange and wonderful fruit. It is usually about 2 inches high and 2 inches wide with a wealth of health benefits, including its ability to boost the immune system, prevent cancer, improve digestion, build strong bones, lower blood pressure, defend the body against viruses, improve circulation, aid in weight loss, protect the skin, and optimize metabolic activities. Vitamin and mineral contents are more than double when eaten as a dried fruit compare to take it as a dishes.

Lychee tree can reach 40-50 feet in height. The seed of Lychee fruit is toxic in nature and can adversely affect the digestive system. This fruit gives a smoky flavor when eaten dried. Lychee is also called as "Chinese Strawberry" as it originates from China and resembles strawberry. This fruit is a symbol of love and romance in China. 

Lychee in Different Languages:

• Spanish - Lichi
• French - Letchi or Litchi
• Italian - iliegia della Cina or Litchi
• Portuguese  - lichia
• German - Litchibaum or Litsch or Litschi
• English - Laichi or Lichu or Linchee or Litchi or Lychee
• Dutch - Lychee

Nutritional Value of Lychee:

Vitamin C – 119%

Vitamin B6 – 5%

riboflavin – 4%

folate – 3%

Carbohydrate – 6%

dietary fiber – 5%

calories – 3%

Protein – 2%

Copper – 7%

Potassium – 5%

Phosphorous – 3%

Manganese – 3%

Health Benefits:

• Digestion
• Immune System
• Cancer Prevention
• Antiviral Capacity
• Blood Pressure
• Blood Circulation
• Helps in weight loss

Skin Benefits

• Anti-aging benefits
• Skin rejuvenation
• Helps remove blemishes

Hair Benefits

• Promotes longer and healthier hair
• Protects hair

Side Effects

May cause abdominal pain, Diarrhoea, Mouth irritation, Throat irritation, Weight gain

Caution:

Excessive consumption may cause fever, bloody noses, sore throat. Diabietics to be careful when eating lychee.

Read More

Unveiling the Potent Health Benefits of Garlic: Nature's Versatile Superfood

The botanical name for garlic is Allium sativum, which is a pungent oily liquid that gives crushed garlic cloves their characteristic smell, and has been shown to be the antibacterial agent due to its active sulphur. Garlic is a plant in the onion family, grown for its cooking properties and health effects. It is high in a sulfur compound called Allicin, which is believed to bring most of the health benefits. Raw garlic is very smelly, so in order to reduce it smells, you can simply add it to your gravy, salad dressings, to soup, yummy pizza or just garnish it before serving or have it in your own style.

Treatments:

• It prevents colon cancer, rectal cancer, stomach cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and lung cancer. It is also used to treat prostate cancer and bladder cancer.
• It has been tried for treating an enlarged prostate
• Diabetes
• Osteoarthritis
• heavy fever
• Traveler’s diarrhea
• High blood pressure late in pregnancy
• Cold and flu.
• It is also used for building the immune system
• If you have Earache, put two or three drops of warm garlic oil in the ears.
• Preventing tick bites
• Preventing and treating bacterial and fungal infections.
• If you have Wrinkles, and you want to use anti ageing cream

Other Treatment like:

• Fever, coughs, headache, stomach ache
• Sinus congestion, gout, rheumatism, hemorrhoids
• Asthma, bronchitis, shortness of breath
• Low blood pressure, low blood sugar
• High blood sugar and snakebites
• It is also used for fighting stress and fatigue, and maintaining healthy liver function.
• Apply garlic oil to their skin to treat fungal infections, warts, and corns. 
• vitamins for health, vitamins for skin

Caution
1. Asthma patients should not consume garlic as it may have side-effects.
2. Garlic should be avoided before surgeries or medical operations.
3. Do not consume more than 2-3 garlic cloves in a day without consulting a doctor.

Read More

Green Gold: Exploring the Abundant Health Benefits of Spinach

Spinach, often hailed as a superfood, offers a wide array of health benefits due to its rich nutritional profile.

Key health benefits of spinach:

• Nutrient-Dense: Spinach is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, K1, and folate, as well as iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients play crucial roles in various bodily functions, such as immune function, bone health, and blood clotting.
• Antioxidant-Rich: Spinach contains antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants may reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and age-related macular degeneration.
• Heart Health: The nitrates in spinach have been shown to help lower blood pressure levels by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow. Additionally, the high levels of potassium and magnesium in spinach may support heart health by regulating blood pressure and reducing the risk of stroke.
• Bone Health: Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K1, which is essential for bone health as it helps regulate calcium balance and promote bone formation. Adequate intake of vitamin K1 may reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
• Eye Health: The antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin found in spinach are beneficial for eye health. These compounds help protect the eyes from age-related macular degeneration and cataracts by filtering out harmful blue light and reducing oxidative stress in the retina.
• Blood Sugar Control: Spinach contains compounds that may help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. Including spinach in your diet may be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
• Digestive Health: Spinach is rich in dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health by preventing constipation, supporting regular bowel movements, and feeding beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy digestive system is essential for overall well-being and nutrient absorption.
• Weight Management: Spinach is low in calories and carbohydrates but high in fiber and water content, making it a nutrient-dense food that can help promote satiety and support weight management goals when included in a balanced diet.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Some compounds found in spinach, such as flavonoids and carotenoids, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of chronic diseases associated with inflammation.

Incorporating spinach into your diet, whether raw in salads, cooked in soups and stir-fries, or blended into smoothies, can provide a myriad of health benefits and contribute to overall well-being.

Here’s a quick guide to some of the spinach varietals you are likely to find in Chennai or Bengaluru:

1. Mulai Keerai (Amarantus Blitum):

• It is probably the most common variety in Tamil Nadu.
• High in vitamin, iron and calcium.
• It has recently been christened ‘Disco Keerai’.
• The stem of this spinach (keerai thandu or dantu in Kannada) is used in sambhar or More Kuzhambu (a yoghurt/ buttermilk-based curry, similar to the Gujarati Kadi).

2. Pasala Keerai or Basale Soppu:

• It also called Delhi Spinach
• This is the conventional palak used in dishes like Palak Paneer.

3. Manthakali keerai or Kaake Soppu:

• It’s also called Black Nightshade and is packed with goodness – high quantities of riboflavin and niacin (usually a home remedy for mouth ulcers).

4. Murungai Keerai or Nugge Yele:

• Moringa (adapted from the Tamil and Malayalam word for drumstick)
• It has emerged as one of the 2010 global superfoods.
• Drumstick leaves (saijan patta in Hindi) are considered one of the most important varieties of Spinach for their proven health benefits.

5. Sorrel Leaves or Gongura (Pundi in Kannada):

• It also known as pulicha keerai for its inherent sour taste.
• This is one of the most popular spinach varieties used in Andhra and Telengana.

6. Ponnangani Keerai or Honagonne:

• This spinach is believed to add a glow to your skin
•  It’s also a ‘go-to’ spinach during hot summers with its inherent qualities to ‘cool’ your body.

7. Agathi Keerai or Agase:

• Siddha texts refer to the strong anti-bacterial properties of these humming bird tree leaves.

8. Venthiya Keerai or Menthina Soppu:

• Fenugreek leaves are best known for their digestive properties
• It’s also rich in phosphorus and calcium.

Read More