STAR ANISE - Chakra Phool

For centuries, star anise has indeed been employed in Asian & Eurasian cuisines. This ancient spice is well-known not only for its culinary abilities, but also for its medicinal virtues.

The star-shaped spice, which has a licorice-like flavour and thus is known in India as 'chakra phool,' originates in south China.

In both Indian and Chinese cuisines, anise is widely used it as an exotic spice. It's often utilised in biryanis, chicken, seafood, and other vegetarian meals because of its powerful, pleasant aroma.

It's time, though, to consider 'beyond the kitchen.' Apart from giving flavour to recipes, this little flower-like fruit also is a repository of several vital nutrients that can help treat a variety of ailments.

Star anise is sun dried until it turns a greyish-brown colour before use. Anise can be pounded into a powder or used whole once it has dried.

The five advantages of eating star anise are listed below

Star anise is high in antioxidants & vitamins A and C, which help fight free radicals from the body premature ageing & diabetes.

Star anise oil contains thymol, terpineol, and anethole, which are all used to treat coughs and flu.

Anise also helps with digestion, cramp relief, and nausea relief.

After meals, drink star anise tea to relieve digestive problems such bloating, gas, indigestion, and constipation. Anise is also one of the primary ingredients in your masala chai.

Drinking 1 glass of water mixed with crushed star anise seeds before bedtime will boost sex desire!

BLACK PEPPER - Kali Mirch

There are several health advantages of black pepper, which is also known as the "king of spices." One of the most significant benefits of taking pepper is that it assists in weight reduction. It is also claimed to be beneficial for digestion as well as cancer prevention due to its cleansing properties. When this spice is added to food, it enhances the flavour and increases the spiciness of the dish.

If you are a fitness fanatic who wants to lose weight rapidly, then you should include black pepper in your daily diet as much as possible. Don't forget to include the lemon juice & finger millet (Ragi) in the recipe as well. Almost all of these meals can assist you in losing weight rapidly, and black pepper is known to help cleanse the intestines and stomach.

Have you ever wondered why black pepper is referred to as the "King of Spice"? This is due to the fact that this spice provides several health advantages for your body. Here are some interesting facts about this incredible spice.

It aids in the loss of weight

Detoxification of the body

Cancer is prevented by using this supplement.

It helps to keep your intestines & stomach clean.

It contains potassium, which aids in the regulation of the heart rate and the prevention of excessive blood pressure.

It aids in the formation of RBCs.

It is high in vitamin B & helps to manufacture calcium.

It helps to keep constipation at bay.

Prevents skin deformation and wrinkles from forming.

SESAME SEEDS - White Tilli

Despite the fact that the fruit is the one we con Sesame (Sesamum indicum), sometimes known as Til, is a Sesamum genus flowering plant. It is cultivated for its edible seeds, that are generated in pods, and it has spread rapidly over tropical areas throughout the world. Sudan, Myanmar, & India were the leading producers in 2018. S. indicum, the cultivated type, is native to India.

It flourishes in locations where all the other crops have collapsed due to drought. Sesame seed is one of the first cultivated oilseed crops, dating back over 3000 years. The oil content of sesame is among the greatest of any seed. Its rich, nutty flavour makes it a popular ingredient in cuisines all around the world.

Sesame Seed Nutritional Value:

Sesame seeds are high in protein, vitamin B1, dietary fibre, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, calcium, manganese, copper, & zinc.

Sesame Seeds' Hair Health Benefits:

Sesame seeds contain plant polyphenols that can help with hair health.

Sesame seed oil is routinely rubbed into the scalp because of the minerals and vitamins it contains, which helps to prevent prematurely greying and encourage hair development.

As a result, sesame seed oil's amino acids & antioxidants may aid dull hair regain its lustre.

Sesame seeds contain natural oil-soluble plant lignans that may help with hypertension therapy.

Constipation Benefits of Sesame Seeds:

Sesame seeds have such a greater fibre content, which is beneficial to digestion.

It relieves constipation and diarrhoea symptoms while also preserving the colon and minimise the risk of gastrointestinal problems.

Diabetes Benefits of Sesame Seeds:

Sesame seeds can help in diabetes management. They lower blood sugar levels and slow or stop glucose absorption in the body.

Arthritis Benefits of Sesame Seeds:

Sesamol, a bioactive chemical present in sesame seeds, is responsible for sesame seeds and sesame seed oil's anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, & antioxidant properties.

It is in charge of inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals.

It also reduces the production of reactive oxygen species.

Because of their properties, sesame seeds or seed oil can help to lessen the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis.

Massage joints using sesame seed oil to relieve pain and inflammation.

Oral Health Benefits of Sesame Seeds:

Sesame seeds have one of the most noticeable benefits on oral health.

Pulling sesame seed oil has a strong antibacterial and astringent impact for a variety of dental issues.

It's also connected to a reduction in Streptococcus bacteria, a frequent bacterium that can cause oral issues.

Sesame oil pulling can help to eliminate tooth plaque and enhance gum health.

Men's Fertility Benefits from Sesame Seeds:

Sesame seeds have indeed been demonstrated to boost sperm quality by increasing male fertility in men's diets.

Participants in one of the studies had a substantial increase in sperm count & sperm motility.

Sesame Seeds Have Anti-Anxiety Properties:

Sesame seeds are useful for the treatment of anxiousness because of their anxiolytic properties.

They also contain antioxidant properties, which help to eliminate free radicals and reduce anxiety caused by stress. 

SABJA - BASIL SEEDS

Seasonings such as sabja or basil seed are often utilised. They give meals a distinct flavour. Sabja seeds, also known as falooda seeds, are also not great for seasoning and establishing fresh basil plants, but they also have a lot of health advantages. Whenever it comes to nutritional content, these little black seeds, which resemble black sesame seeds, may compete with flax seeds and chia seeds. Sweet Basil is used to make them.

And you must make a point to eat these simple Sabja seeds on a regular basis. Sabja seeds can improve your health in a variety of ways.

Sabja Seeds' Nutritional Value

• Sabja seeds are densely packed with nutrients and immune-boosting characteristics. 

• They're low in calories but high in healthy fats, with 42 percent carbs, 20 percent protein, and 25 percent good fats.

• They have a lot of fibre and Omega-3 fatty acids in them. Potassium, manganese, copper, calcium, & magnesium, along with vitamins C and folate, are abundant in these foods.

• This has earned them the title of "wonder seeds."

Sabja Seeds provide the following health benefits:

1. Works as a Natural Coolant for the Body

Summer drinks with sabja seeds give welcome reprieve from the sweltering heat. Sabja seeds are recognised for lowering body temperature and relaxing the stomach.

Lemonades, coconut water, coconut milk, milkshake, smoothies, yoghurt, and other beverages can include these seeds.

2. Helps to lower blood sugar levels

Sabja seeds have been shown to have exceptional anti-diabetic properties. 

Sabja seeds have a high fibre content. When diabetics were fed sabja seeds soon before meals on a regular basis, blood glucose levels did not surge.

 As a result, sabja seeds have been proven to be effective in controlling blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes patients.

3. Helpful in the Management of Diabetes

People who are diagnosed with diabetes must be very careful about what they consume in order to maintain a stable blood sugar level. 

Anti-diabetic effects have been discovered in Sabja seeds. 

People who eat Sabja seeds right before a meal don't have their blood sugar levels spike afterward, according to various studies. 

Sabja seeds can help control diabetes better by maintaining blood sugar levels in check after a meal.

4. Helps with constipation and acidity.

Soluble fibre is abundant in Sabja seeds.

Whenever these seeds are combined with a sufficient amount of water in our diet, they absorb the water and so aid in the drawing of water to our stomach. 

This causes faeces to soften and encourages regular bowel movements. 

As a result, persons who suffer from constipation benefit greatly from using sabja in their regular diet.

Sabja seeds contain pectin, as well as a variety of other soluble fibres. 

Pectin has been shown to have prebiotic properties. 

It's crucial for controlling the makeup and metabolism of complex gut microbiota, as well as raising the amount of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

This also aids in the reduction of acidity to a large extent.

5. Helps with weight loss

Sabja seeds contain a lot of soluble dietary fibre, which makes you feel full and pleased. They also assist to control our bowel movements, which aids in the removal of toxins from our bodies.

While on a high-fat diet, the soluble fermentable fibre pectin aids in boosting satiety and lowering calorie intake and obesity.

 It also creates a fermentation environment that is more conducive to hindgut health.

Weight loss occurs as a result of calorie restriction.

Protein & soluble fibre are found in Sabja seeds. 

Both of these nutrients last a long period in your digestive system. 

This indicates that after eating Sabja seeds, you will not be hungry for a long time.

 If you don't eat, you won't crave unhealthy snacks. 

This will assist you in staying in shape or losing weight.

7. It helps to keep your bowel movements in check.

Regular bowel movements are also ensured by the high fibre content.

Constipation occurs when the large intestine is pushed to suck water from the faeces due to a lack of water intake. 

Soluble fibres, on the other hand, pull water to large intestines, softening the stool when consumed with enough of water.

High-fibre diets are especially suggested for those with heart issues since straining when bowel movements increases strain on the heart.

8. A Mineral Powerhouse

Sabja seeds have high concentrations of iron, calcium, and magnesium.

Muscle and bone operate at their best when calcium & magnesium are present. 

In order to maintain a consistent amount of haemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen throughout the body, iron is required.

In the case of an iron or calcium deficit, Sabja seeds are the finest supply.

9. It has the potential to reduce the risk of heart problems.

Sabja seeds have an average fat content of 2.5 grammes per teaspoon. 

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fat, makes up roughly half of this fat (1,240 mg per tablespoon).

Omega-3 fatty acids have favourable effects on lipids, blood pressure, cardiovascular function, eicosanoids, coagulation, & immunological responses, among other things.

As a result, the risks of coronary heart disease, hypertension, and stroke, as well as associated consequences, is reduced.

10. Oral Health Advantages

Sabja seeds have been shown to be antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal.

They are beneficial in the treatment of oral ulcers. 

They could be used to freshen your breath. 

These seeds also aid in the treatment of dental problems like as bad breath, plaque, and cavities.

11. Reduces Anxiety and Stress

Sabja seed have a sedative impact on both the body and the psyche. 

They help us feel better by lowering our levels of stress, tension, and anxiety.

Flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids abound in Sabja seeds. 

Their anti-oxidant action has also been demonstrated to improve memory in certain people.

KALI JIRI- Biiter Cumin

Bitter Cumin, also known as Kalijiri, is a plant that is widely cultivated in India & Southeast Asia. Brown in colour, the seeds have a strong, bitter flavour. Raw seeds are difficult to ingest raw and have long been utilised as a component in Ayurvedic preparations.

Because of its bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects, Kalijiri seeds are good for respiratory illnesses including asthma. It can also help with vitiligo since it promotes melanin production.

Kalijiri's antibacterial characteristics make it a popular component in Ayurvedic lotions and oils for treating skin ailments. Kalijiri's antioxidants also aid wound healing by speeding wound contraction. Due to its Kashay (astringent) characteristics, using Kalijiri seeds paste with Neem or coconut oil might aid with early wound healing, according to Ayurveda. It has been discovered to aid in the detoxification of blood by removing toxins and so enhancing their evacuation. It's also been reported to help with weight loss and flatulence.

Kalijiri has a number of advantages.

1. Constipation

Kalijiri aids in the treatment of dyspepsia. Indigestion, according to Ayurveda, is the result of an inadequate digestive process. Including Kalijiri in your diets can assist to enhance Agni (digestive fire) & make meals easier to digest. The Deepan (appetiser) property is responsible for this.

2. Asthma

Kalijiri's Vata-Kapha balance & Ushna (hot) qualities aid to treat asthma. It also aids in the removal of blockages and facilitates breathing.

3. Coughing

Cough is a common illness that frequently develops in conjunction with a cold Due to its Kapha balancing and Ushna (hot) qualities, Kalijiri aids in cough relief. It aids in the relief of collected mucus by immediately emptying it.

4. Infection of the Urinary Tract (UTI)

Kalijiri's Mutral (diuretic) qualities aid in the treatment of urinary tract infections. It improves the flow of urine and alleviates the symptoms of urinary infections.

5. Healing Wounds

Kalijiri's Vata balancing & Kashay (astringent) qualities aid in wound management. It also aids in the reduction of injury symptoms such as pain and bleeding, as well as promoting quick healing.

ERAND MOOL- Castor plant

Castor root, seeds, and leaves are widely utilised in both external and internal Ayurvedic remedies. Castor oil is an aphrodisiac, pain reliever, and aids in the treatment of neurological problems.

Health Benefits

Jaundice

1. Tender castor leaves paste in jaundice: Tender leaves of a coppery red tint are gathered and ground into a fine paste. This is taken on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. This aids in the reduction of bile in cases of jaundice.

Swelling

2. Mature leaf paste applied on swelling: Mature leaves are gathered and ground into a fine paste. This small amount of salt is added & warmed. This material is administered to the swollen muscles. This calms the swelling and alleviates discomfort.

Constipation and backache

3. Root decoction for pain, sciatica, and constipation: 20-25 gramme dried roots are eaten and decocted. Alternatively, medicinal milk can be made. This is given twice a day in the form of a decoction in the amount of 40 ml. This aids in the relief of pain caused by ailments such as back soreness, sciatica, and so on. It also relieves constipation.

Arthritis of the toes

4. Castor leaf spread with sesame oil in cases of gouty arthritis: A whole castor leaf is covered with sesame oil and slightly warmed. This is used to the gouty arthritis-affected joints. If the operation is performed on a regular basis for a week, it relieves discomfort and swelling.

Infestation of worms

5. Palasha seed powder & castor oil in worm infestation: Palasha (Butea monosperma) seed are ground into a fine powder and used to treat worm infestation. On an empty stomach, consume 1-2 pinches of this powder with castor oil. This drug quickly relieves pin worms within 3-4 days.

PIPPALI- Long Pepper

 

Pippali is an Ayurvedic plant that is utilised in a variety of Ayurvedic treatments.

Pippali's roots and fruits are used for medical purposes.This plant's fruits are pale yellow to orange in colour and have a strong flavour.

Pippali is a popular home treatment for coughs and colds.

Because of its expectorant properties, swallowing Pippali powder with honey after lunch and dinner helps remove mucus from the airways, allowing the patient to breathe more easily.

Its ingestion may also aid weight reduction by increasing the body's metabolic rate.

Due to its laxative properties, Pippali powder may help manage constipation by encouraging bowel movements.

Pippali may also be useful in the treatment of toothaches.

Due to its Kapha balancing nature, rubbing a paste of Pippali powder with honey on the gums and teeth decreases pain and inflammation in the teeth.

 BENEFITS OF PIPPALI

Asthmatic benefits

Pippali aids in the management of asthma symptoms and provides relief from shortness of breath.

The major doshas associated with asthma, according to Ayurveda, are Vata and Kapha.

In the lungs, vitiated 'Vata' joins with disturbed 'Kapha dosha,' obstructing the respiratory path.

Breathing becomes strenous as a result of this.

Swas Roga is the name for this disorder (asthma).

Pippali is an asthma treatment that works as a decongestant, bronchodilator, and expectorant.

This is due to its ability to balance the Kapha dosha.

 

Tips:

 

2. Take a couple of pinches of Pippali powder.

 

2. Take it along with honey after dinner and lunch to relieve asthma symptoms.

 

Pippali used to treat airway inflammation (bronchitis)

If you have bronchitis or a cough, Pippali is a wonderful choice.

Kasroga is the name given to this condition in Ayurveda, and it is due to poor digestion.

The accumulation of Ama (toxic leftovers in the body owing to faulty digestion) in the form of mucus in the lungs is caused by a poor diet and insufficient waste removal.

Bronchitis arises as a result of this.

Deepan (appetiser) and Pachan (digestive) characteristics are found in Pippali.

It relieves bronchitis symptoms by reducing Ama and expelling extra mucus from the lungs.

 

Tips:

 

2. Take a couple of pinches of Pippali Powder.

 

2. Take it with honey after dinner and lunch to relieve bronchitis symptoms.

 

Pippali's Health Benefits for Cough

Pippali is a herb that can help with coughs and colds.

Pippali calms the cough, eliminates mucus, and clears the airways, allowing the person to breathe easily.

Because of its Kapha balancing qualities, Pippali has decongestant, bronchodilator, and expectorant actions.

When consumed with honey, Pippali has a positive effect on cough and cold.

Pippali's Rasayana (rejuvenating) nature also has a rejuvenating impact on the lungs.

 

Tips:

 

2. Take a couple of pinches of Pippali powder.

 

2. To manage cough, take it with honey after lunchtime and supper.

 

Pippali's Health Benefits for Fever

Pippali may aid in the reduction of fever and accompanying symptoms.

There are several forms of fever according to Ayurveda, based on the dosha involved.

A fever usually suggests an excess of Ama owing to a lack of digestive fire.

Due to its Deepan (appetiser) and Pachan (digestive) characteristics, taking Pippali with honey helps to lessen Ama.

Pippali also aids in the improvement of immunity.

Because of its Rasayana (revitalising) properties, it aids in the fight against illness and reduces fever.

 

Tips:

 

2. Take a couple of pinches of Pippali powder.

 

2. To treat a fever, take it with honey after lunch and dinner.