The mere mention of tamarind is enough to get most of you drooling! It immediately brings up that sour, tangy zest at the tip of your tongue! While you all must be familiar with tamarind and its many benefits, are you aware of the benefits of tamarind leaves as well? Yes, just like tamarind seeds and their pulp, tamarind leaves and bark extracts also offer you many health-enriching benefits. Wondering what and how you can make the most of these tangy leaves? Read on to know more in detail!
Fun Fact Tamarind leaves have been used in Indian cuisine and Ayurvedic remedies for centuries. It imparts a tart flavor to soups, curries, and chutneys
In This Article
Health Benefits Of Tamarind Leaves
1. Provides Relief From Malaria
Malaria is caused by the female mosquito (1). Tamarind possesses anti-malarial property (2). Tamarind leaves extract may inhibit the growth of Plasmodium falciparum, which is carried by the mosquito and causes malaria.
StyleCraze Trivia In the Philippines, tamarind leaves are used in traditional medicine to prepare herbal tea for reducing malaria.
2. May Control Diabetes
Shutterstock
Tamarind plant reportedly possesses antidiabetic activity (2). Consuming a concoction of tamarind leaves may help control the body’s blood sugar levels and increase its insulin sensitivityi XA term that refers to how well your body cells respond to the effects of the insulin hormone. . It may also help cure jaundice (3).
3. May Help Treat Scurvy
Scurvy, also known as sailor’s disease, is caused due to the deficiency of Vitamin C. It is generally accompanied by symptoms like bleeding gums and nails, and fatigue (4). Tamarind leaves have a high ascorbic acidi XA potent antioxidant that supports the maintenance of connective tissue. Its deficiency causes scurvy. content (3), which may help treat scurvy symptoms.
4. Heals Wounds
Shutterstock
Tamarind leaves contain antiseptici XAn ingredient that can block the growth of harmful, disease-causing bacteria. properties that accelerate wound healing (3). The juice also prevents other infections. Tamarind leaves may accelerate the generation of red, white blood cells (5).
StyleCraze Trivia Traditional Indian folk medicine mentions using tamarind leaves wash or paste to reduce sprain and swelling.
5. May Improve Lactation
The extract from tamarind leaves may help lactating mothers improve the quality of breast milk. However, there is no research to back this claim.
6. Inhibits Genital Infections
Tamarind leaf extracts are useful in stopping genital infections and also provide relief from their symptoms (6).
7. May Provide Relief From Menstrual Cramps
Shutterstock
We all know how terrible menstrual cramps can be. Tamarind contains analgesic activity (2). It may lessen the pain and make periods more manageable. The leaves of papaya, salt, and water can be added to increase the efficiency of the leaves. But, make sure that you don’t use too much salt.
Related: Causes Of Blood Clots During Periods & Remedies To Treat Them
8. Possesses Anti Inflammatory Properties
Tamarind leaves possess anti-inflammatory properties and can be used as a cure for joint pains and other inflammations (2).
9. Protects Body From Infections
Shutterstock
Tamarind leaves are a storehouse of Vitamin C, which may ward away most infections (2).
Related: 11 Home Remedies For Fungal Skin Infections & Prevention Tips
10. Good For Oral Health And Tooth Ache
Shutterstock
Oral hygiene is extremely important. One of the main complaints patients dealing with oral problems is bad breath. Toothache also tops the chart. Tamarind leaves can be used as an ideal treatment for both issues. However, research in this regard is limited.
11. May Reduce Cancer Threat
Antioxidants are super important to get rid of free radicals (7). Free radicals are the culprits behind aging skin, cancer, and many other issues (7). The tamarind leaf extract can help stall these problems as it contains a high dosage of antioxidants (3).
12. Treats Ulcer
Ulcers can lead to unbearable pain. The juice from tamarind leaves can be administered to cure ulcers and provide relief from the symptoms (3).
Related: Stomach Ulcers: 17 Home Remedies, Symptoms, And Diet Chart
13. Provides Relief From Hypertension
In today’s lifestyle, where hypertension, or high BP, is pretty common, tamarind leaves can help you lower it (8). However, more research is needed to back these claims. Low blood pressure means lower risks of strokes, cardiovascular diseases, and more.
The varied benefits of tamarind leaves stem from their rich phytonutrienti XA general term used to denote a diverse variety of compounds produced by plants. profile. It has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, it is good for oral health, prevents tooth damage, and may inhibit genital infections. Tamarind leaves may help control diabetes and scurvy. There is some evidence that it may relieve menstrual cramps, boost wound healing, and improve lactation. Tamarind leaves may help reduce the risk of cancer and soothe ulcers. You can consume its extract or make its tea to reap its benefits. However, excessive use may have adverse effects. Consult your physician if you experience any side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tamarind leaves poisonous?
No. Toxicity tests have shown that tamarind leaves are not poisonous (9).
Can tamarind reduce belly fat?
No. Tamarind does not show any significant changes in body weight and may not reduce belly fat(10).
Is tamarind good for kidneys?
Yes. Studies show that tamarind plays a role in protecting the kidneys and is good for the overall immune system (11).
Subscribe
Does tamarind cause abortion?
Tamarind does not affirmatively cause abortion and is considered safe to consume during pregnancy. However, it is best to consult a doctor before consuming tamarind during pregnancy to ensure safety and avoid drug interaction.
How do you get the juice out of tamarind leaves?
You can boil tamarind leaves in water to make a brew, or you can grind it.
Sources
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- Malaria
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/279200967_Malaria - Tamarindus indica: Extent of explored potential
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3210002/ - Tamarind
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/347649837_Tamarind_Tamarindus_indica - Scurvy—Characteristic Features and Forensic Issues
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328935171_Scurvy-Characteristic_Features_and_Forensic_Issues - Anti-inflammatory and analgesic potential of Tamarindus indica Linn. (Fabaceae): a narrative review
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC6704379/ - Clinical evaluation of Tamarindus indica Linn seeds in uterine prolapse
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330970493_Clinical_evaluation_of_Tamarindus_indica_Linn_seeds_in_uterine_prolapse - Understanding antioxidants
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/understanding-antioxidants#:~:text=Antioxidants%20neutralize%20free%20radicals%20by - Traditional Herbal Medicine Use Among Hypertensive Patients in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4076776/ - Six-Month Chronic Toxicity Study of Tamarind Pulp (Tamarindus indica L.) Water Extract
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5388147/ - Evaluation on the Effects of Tamarindus Indica L. Fruit on Body Weight and Several Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Obese and Overweight Adult Patients: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7050219/ - Tamarind: A diet‐based strategy against lifestyle maladies
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6848808/
Was this article helpful?
Related
The following two tabs change content below.
- Author
Tanya Choudhary
Tanya is an ISSA certified Specialist in Fitness & Nutrition. She specializes in writing articles on ingredients that benefit skin,… more
LATEST ARTICLES
23 Amazing Benefits Of Mulberries (Shahtoot) For Skin, Hair, And Health- 23 Amazing Benefits Of Mulberries (Shahtoot) For Skin, Hair, And Health
22 Best Benefits Of Oatmeal For Skin, Hair, And Health- 22 Best Benefits Of Oatmeal For Skin, Hair, And Health
21 Amazing Benefits Of Litchis (Lychees) For Skin, Hair, And Health- 21 Amazing Benefits Of Litchis (Lychees) For Skin, Hair, And Health
10 Nutritional Benefits Of Carrot Juice For Skin, Vision, And Health- 10 Nutritional Benefits Of Carrot Juice For Skin, Vision, And Health
Honey For Oily Skin – 12 Best Ways To Use It Effectively- Honey For Oily Skin – 12 Best Ways To Use It Effectively
Flax Seeds Benefits & DIY Face Masks For Beautiful Skin- Flax Seeds Benefits & DIY Face Masks For Beautiful Skin
Parsley: 10 Potential Benefits And Uses, Nutrition, How To Make Tea- Parsley: 10 Potential Benefits And Uses, Nutrition, How To Make Tea
33 Wonderful Benefits Of Banana For Skin, Hair, And Health- 33 Wonderful Benefits Of Banana For Skin, Hair, And Health
Tea Tree Oil For Warts: Benefits, How To Use, And More- Tea Tree Oil For Warts: Benefits, How To Use, And More
