The fruit of the tamarind tree is a staple ingredient in a number of Asian recipes that call for some tart flavor. Although the leaves of the same tree are also sometimes used for cooking purposes, they are actually more popularly employed as remedies for various health problems.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the health benefits offered by tamarind leaves.
Improves Insulin Sensitivity
A beverage made from tamarind leaves is known to help improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin. As a result, the levels of sugar in the bloodstream can be kept within the normal range. Needless to say, tamarind leaves are heaven sent to individuals who have diabetes or are considered as pre-diabetics.
Relieves Menstrual Cramps
Tamarind leaves are said to be highly effective in easing abdominal cramps associated with menstruation. That’s because of their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Traditional healers oftentimes combine tamarind leaves with the leaves of papaya and a little salt to come up with a highly effective remedy for menstrual cramps.
Eases Swollen and Painful Joints
Since the leaves of the tamarind tree have anti-inflammatory properties, they can be used internally in the form of tea or externally as poultice in relieving joints that are swollen and painful. Unlike anti-inflammatory drugs available OTC or under a doctor’s prescription, tamarind leaves do not yield nasty side effects.
Promotes Good Oral Health
Just like the fruits of the tamarind tree, tamarind leaves are also good sources of vitamin C. It’s exactly for this reason why a special mouth rinse made from it can help in warding off gum problems, like swelling and bleeding. Traditionally, tamarind leaves are also being used for dealing with toothaches.
Strengthens the Body’s Defenses
Speaking of vitamin C, a beverage made from tamarind leaves can actually help strengthen one’s immune system. We all know how important vitamin C is in bolstering the defenses of the body. The regular intake of the said beverage can help keep you protected from disease-causing microbes that attack your body.
Promotes Wound Healing
The use of tamarind leaves topically is especially beneficial for people who have minor wounds and burns. It’s for the fact that the said leaves have antimicrobial properties. By killing off bacteria, an infection can be kept from striking, resulting in the faster healing of any minor wound or burn.
Keeps the Skin Looking Beautiful
It’s not just when you have a minor wound or burn when you can use tamarind leaves. Whether applied topically or taken internally, a concoction out of tamarind leaves can help deal with an assortment of skin problems. Also, the antioxidant properties of tamarind leaves can help in keeping at bay those fine lines and wrinkles.
Lowers Risk of Deadly Heart Disease
The ability of tamarind leaves to control inflammation was mentioned several times before. Well, let’s put the spotlight once more on the same thing: the anti-inflammatory properties of tamarind leaves can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol level, resulting in a person’s lowered risk of having heart disease which kills many worldwide.
Provides Cure for Malaria
Last but not least, tamarind leaves are said to be very effective against malaria, and traditional healers know this for so many years now. Today’s scientist found out that extracts from the tamarind leaves are capable of killing off the protozoan parasite responsible for malaria, which is also transmitted by mosquitoes.
Tamarind leaves can offer all of the amazing health benefits above. Just like when using other leaves or herbs for managing a health problem, make sure that you consult your doctor first. This is especially true if you are diagnosed with a medical condition, taking a prescribed or OTC drug, pregnant or nursing.
