Tamarindus Indica

TAMARINDUS INDICA

Known as Tamarind in most countries and ‘Imli’, in India, Tamarindus indica, is a large tree of African origin. However, quite surprisingly, most tropical countries do not grow this herb.

CHARACTERISTICS OF TAMARINDUS INDICA

Being acidic, yet sugary, it remained an important element in the diet of sailors during the yesteryears, balancing their otherwise starchy diet. Its seeds are brown in colour and very glossy. Bearing vibrant reddish yellow flowers, the pulpy brown fruits of Tamarind are used in preparing various items of South Indian cuisine. In addition, Tamarind has significant medicinal qualities that prove beneficial in relieving various illnesses.

THERAPEUTIC POWERS OF TAMARINDUS INDICA

Tamarind is known to enhance appetite, improve digestion and prevent constipation. On heating the bark with salt in an earthen vessel, an ash is obtained; doses of which give relief from stomach aches and cramps amongst other digestion related problems.

The Herb Also Serves As An:

• Antiseptic
• Cooling laxative
• Astringent

NUTRIENT COMPOSITION

Extremely high in calories, Tamarind contains vitamins and minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, iron carotene, riboflavin, vitamin C and niacin. Tartaric acid and sugars like invert-a broken-up starch in addition to good quality pectin are found in the pulp. A study of the Tamarind pulp reveals that it comprises 3.1 per cent protein, 0.9 per cent moisture, 0.1 per cent fat and 0.2 per cent minerals, 67.4 carbohydrates and 5.6per cent fibre.

CARE FOR AILMENTS

Tamarind has proved valuable in relieving various illnesses. Under mentioned are some of the ailments this remarkable herb can relieve:-

• Scurvy: As a result of being rich in vitamin C, Tamarind helps in preventing and relieving scurvy. However, one must ensure that the herb doesn’t dry and lose its antiscorbutic property like other fruits and vegetables.
• Common Cold: The best remedy for a nasal blockage and cold is a hot clear soup called ‘rasam’. It is made by mixing Tamarind, pepper and a teaspoon of ghee in boiling water.
• Fevers: Tamarind is often used to relieve fever. A mixture made by boiling 30 grams of the fruit’s pulp in half a litre of milk and adding dates, doves, sugar, cardamoms and a little camphor works wonders in reducing fever.
• Dysentery: Pulverised seeds of the tamarind fruit, when taken in doses of 6.25 decigrams, with the same quantity of cumin and sugar thrice a day aid in relieving dysentery. Moreover, the aforementioned remedial drink for fever also provides relief from dysentery.
• Burns: By burning the leaves of tamarind tree over fire in a covered pot, crushing them into a fine powder and mixing it in gingelly (til) oil, and applying the mixture over a wound, the burn gets relieved within a matter of days. It also protects the wound from moisture and germs .These valuable leaves also prevent oedema leaving the skin healthy and radiant.
• Inflammation of Joints: Tamarind leaves aid in reducing swelling and pain of inflamed joints. They are crushed and mixed in water before being applied on the affected areas.
• Sore Throat: Gargling with tamarind water gives significant relief from a sore throat. Gargle water made with powdered dry leaves or a brew made with the bark of the tree, both prove miraculous in relieving sore throats.

PLANET AYURVEDA PRODUCTS THAT USE THIS HERB

Tamarindus Indica is used in a variety of products made by planet Ayurveda. One such product is the Garcinia capsules.