Tamarind tree is indigenous to Africa. It produces a pod like fruits whose pulp is edible. Tamarind pulp is mainly used as a condiment, adding flavor to various cuisines.
Tamarind fruit pulp is rich in tartaric acid, B vitamins and calcium. The pulp is used in various savoury dishes as well as incorporated in jams, blended into juices, sorbets etc. In Pakistan and India Tamarind sweet chutney is very popular as dressing for various snacks.
DIGESTION
Tamarind has been proven highly beneficial in relieving gastric discomfort. The high fiber content promotes intestinal peristalsis. It effectively eases indigestion and helps alleviate constipation and bloating. The presence of tartaric acid in tamarind has been found to treat nausea and vomiting in stomach flu (gastroenteritis)
ANTI AGING
The high Vitamin C content in tamarind boosts collagen formation and delay the formation of wrinkles. The abundance of antioxidants in tamarind fights free radicals which accumulate to cause signs of aging. Tamarind helps skin restore its elasticity while giving you a blemish free youthful glow.
BLOOD PRESSURE
The high level of potassium in tamarind lowers blood pressure while countering the effects of Sodium. A good intake of tamarind has been shown helpful in people suffering from Hypertension.
ANEMIA
Tamarind is a rich source of iron and a single serving contains more than 10% of your daily requirement. Tamarind boosts red blood cell formation by providing iron as an essential component necessary for the oxygenation of nerves and tissues. A diet low in Iron causes Anemia which is characterized by fatigue, irritability. headaches and cognitive issues. Proper consumption of tamarind will help you keep these troubles at bay.
NERVE FUNCTION
Tamarind provides an ample source of Vitamin B complex, the most important of which is Thiamine. Thiamine is necessary for the metabolism of Carbohydrates. Our bodies are incapable of making it, thus making it essential to acquire through diet. Enzymes in nervous tissue are especially dependent on the oxidative function of Thiamine. Deficiency of Thiamine causes Beri Beri, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, and optic neuropathy.
Subacute deficiency of Thiamine can easily lead to metabolic coma and death.
HEART HEALTH
Being an affluent source in fiber, tamarind has been proven productive in Heart diseases. Th ample amount of fiber scrapes of Bad Cholesterol from veins and arteries.The potassium in tamarind serves as a vasodilator and reduces stress from the cardiovascular system. The antioxidant activity of Vitamin C in tamarind fight free radicals and minimize their effects on the heart.
WEIGHTLOSS
The presence of Hydroxyctiric acid helps inhibit the enzyme which stores fat. Furthermore, tamarind has been known to suppress appetite by increasing the production of serotonin neurotransmitter.
DIABETES
The Alpha amylases in tamarind stop carbohydrates from being absorbed, which are easily converted to simple sugars of fats. Tamarind also helps control the glucose and insulin fluctuations associated with diabetes.