Tamarind Fruit

The tamarind fruit also known by its scientific name, Tamarindus indica, originates from Asia and Africa but found in many other tropical areas around the world. This tropical fruit has bean-like pods, seeds and an edible pulp that is sour yet sweet. In cooking, it is used to make tasty dishes to sweets, sauces, drinks and jams. Tamarind can also be eaten and enjoyed by simply removing the fruit from the tamarind pods.

The tamarind fruit has a unique taste, and besides being delicious, it also offers numerous health benefits. Here’s what the fruit can help by promoting or treating:

Promotes Weight Loss

Research has shown that the fruit has an anti-obesity effect which can help in weight loss. Tamarind seeds may contain a compound that blocks the activity of trypsin, an enzyme involved in the breakdown of protein. Trypsin can help reduce food intake. On the flip side the fruit is relatively high in calories and sugar and should be combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise to get the best results in terms of long-term weight loss.

Boosts Immunity

The fruit contains high levels of vitamin C, as well as other antioxidant effects in the essential oils, which makes it a good immune system booster. It keeps away microbial and fungal infections and also reduces the occurrence of parasites in the body due to its antiseptic and antimicrobial effects. It has specifically been linked to eliminating stomach worms in children in tropical areas where tamarind is cultivated.

Relieves Constipation and Improves Digestion
When the tamarind fruit is eaten as a fruit or spice, it increases the efficiency of the digestive system. This natural laxative has a high fiber content, which is important in preventing constipation. Tamarind is also a bilious substance, meaning that it stimulates the activity of bile, which can help in dissolving foods faster. Due to its high fiber content, gastric juices are stimulated which help speed up digestion. It also works in preventing diarrhea because the fiber can reduce loose stools.

Inflammation in the joints and connective tissues

The tamarind fruit can reduce the pain and protect the connective tissues due to its powerful anti inflammatory properties as well as antibacterial properties that can protect the body from infections. The fruit acts as a body detoxifier and contains compounds that can reinforce the immune system and prevent various ailments.

Improves your eyesight

Tamarind contains a lot of vitamin A which can improve your eyesight and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and other eye problems.

Treats hair loss

By boiling the fruit until soft and squeezing to obtain the fluid therein, the Tamarind can be a natural remedy against hair loss when this liquid is applied to the scalp.

Treats diabetes

Tamarind inhibits the enzyme alpha-amylase, which mainly stops carbohydrates from being absorbed. A carbohydrate-heavy diet can increase the chances of uncontrolled glucose and insulin levels, which is the biggest problem for people suffering from diabetes. Tamarind can help to monitor and control blood sugar levels and fluctuations to prevent diabetes.

Great for your heart

The fruit reduces several heart disease risk factors due to the presence of essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium in it. These are vital for the health of the cardiovascular system. It also has a high fiber content which can help control cholesterol levels and fight free radicals in the body. It is loaded with magnesium, an important mineral that plays a central role in many aspects of health such as bone formation, regulating heart rhythm, muscle contractions and blood sugar control, among other things.