Few people know but this fruit that contains vitamins and antioxidants could hide many benefits for the health of the organism

We often hear about fruits such as apples, watermelons, peaches, but little is said about a tropical fruit that would have various beneficial properties for the body. We are talking about the tamarind, native to India and East Africa. The name derives from an Arabic word which means “Indian date”. Its pulp is rich in mucilage, which is why this food seems to have laxative effects. The tamarind tree can reach up to 25 m in height. It can be found commercially as a juice or fresh drink.

In addition to having 239 kcal per 100 g of product, it contains:

• 31 g of water;
• 62 g of carbohydrates;
• 5 g of fiber;
• 3 g of protein;
• 0.6 g of fat.

It also contains vitamins and minerals.

Few people know but this fruit that contains vitamins and antioxidants could hide many benefits for the health of the organism

Once we have seen the nutritional values, we can go into the benefits that hide behind this food. It would seem useful in cases of diarrhea, abdominal pain, fungal infections, for wounds, fever, malaria, eye disorders. Given its richness in active substances, it could be a support for the antidiabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial activity. One of the main properties of tamarind would seem to be that laxative. This action is attributed to the presence within it of certain chemicals.

Some studies have shown that tamarind extract could be a powerful antioxidant or could be used in cases of arthritis. It must be specified that even today the studies are constantly updated and the research on the beneficial actions that this food would have are not yet finished. Tamarind is also used for making eye drops. In fact, one of its properties could be to protect the cornea of ​​the eye and for this reason scientists are still researching its use in the antifungal and antibacterial field.

How to eat it and contraindications

In addition to having many benefits, tamarind has a mixed flavor between sweet and bitter. To eat it, the external rind is broken and, if the pulp is already ripe, it can be eaten naturally. Alternatively, it is set aside for making jams, syrups or second courses. Obviously, like many other foods, it should be consumed in moderation. It would have contraindications when overdoing the doses and its laxative properties should not be underestimated. In addition, it could also interfere with some medications.

Therefore, tamarind is not very well known and few know it but this fruit that contains vitamins and many other nutrients could be really good for our health.

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