About Tamarind or Imli:
Tamarind pod contains Vitamin B, Carotenes, Vitamin C, Potassium and Magnesium and that is why it is known to have tremendous health benefits.
Every 100 grams of tamarind contains 28 mg of sodium and 628 mg of potassium in addition to 35% of the Thiamines, 35% of the iron, 23% of magnesium and 16% of the phosphorus of the recommended daily requirement of a healthy woman. Apart from this, tamarind also contains copper, niacin, pyridoxine, etc.
There is a high level of tartaric acid in tamarind, which is a potential antioxidant that can help scavenge harmful free radicals from the system. There are some other phytochemicals found in tamarind which include geraniol, limonene, cinnamic acid, safrole, pyrazine, methyl salicylate and alkyl thiazoles.
One cup of tamarind contains 6.88 grams of natural sugars. It has a calorie count of 287, 3.36 grams of protein and 9.72 grams of fat. This fruit also contains 6.1 grams of fiber in 100 grams of the fruit. This aids in enhancing digestive health.
Skin Health Benefits Of Tamarind Or Imli:
Benefits of Tamarind or Imli in Lightening the Skin:
Sun exposure for a prolonged period along with exposure to dust and pollution can actually cause a lot of problems like dull and dry skin, tanning, uneven complexion of the skin, clogged pores etc. however, we cannot stop from going outside; but we can try some easy-to-make skin lightening face pack with the use of tamarind. Let us know how.
*You will require 30 grams of tamarind pulp, 150 grams of hot water and half teaspoon of turmeric powder. To make the face pack, follow the steps below.
- Soak the tamarind pulp in hot water for about 10 minutes.
- Extract the pulp.
- Add half teaspoon of turmeric powder to this tamarind extract.
- Apply the paste evenly on cleansed skin and leave it for 15 minutes.
- Wash off with water so as to reveal fairer and more radiant skin.
- This face pack is ideal for oily skin and can be used up to 2 times in a week.
NOTE: if you want to have a bleach-like effect, then go for a tamarind and lemon face pack. For this you need to mix one teaspoon of tamarind extract with one teaspoon each of lemon and honey and apply this mixture to your face and wash it off after about 15 minutes for visibly lighter skin.
Tamarind or Imli Acts As a Natural Exfoliating Agent for Skin:
You can try tamarind or imli for exfoliating the skin. This fruit is actually an excellent source of AHA or alpha hydroxyl acids, which is one of the major constituents of several leading exfoliating creams which are available in the market. They eliminate the dirt and impurities that lie deep inside your skin and unclog the clogged skin pores. Let us know how to make use of this.
You would require 1 teaspoon of tamarind or imli pulp, 1 teaspoon of rock salt and 1 tablespoon of milk cream or yogurt.
All you need to do is mix one teaspoon of tamarind extract with one teaspoon of the rock salt and one tablespoon of yogurt and apply the mixture evenly on your face and massage it gently using your fingers, making circular motions while massaging for about 5-7 minutes, so as to eliminate the dead cells. Repeat this process two times in a week for a dirt-free happy skin.
NOTE: While, milk cream is good for dry skin; for oily skin yogurt works really well. Make sure you mix all the ingredients properly.
Tamarind or Imli Benefits in Treating Acne:
One more skin health benefits of tamarind or imli is that it aids in treating or soothing acne. The vitamin A and Vitamin C and other antioxidants present in tamarind or imli, enable it to act as a natural cure for several inflammatory skin conditions including acne and pimples.
Below we have mentioned how to make use of this remedy.
You would require 1 tablespoon of tamarind extract, half teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 tablespoon of yogurt.
Simply mix the tamarind extract with turmeric powder and fresh yogurt and apply the pack on your face and let it dry for around 15 to 20 minutes. Then after, wash off with warm water and apply a nice moisturizer that is suitable for your skin. Using this pack once in a week would give you effective results in treating acne and also make your skin get a glow.
Tamarind or Imli Has Natural Moisturizing and Toning Properties:
There is another wonderful skin health benefit of Tamarind or Imli and that is, it helps in skin toning and also acts as a moisturizing agent. Simply use the following pack once in a week for a hydrated and fresh-looking skin.
You will require 15 grams tamarind or imli pulp, 2 teaspoons of green tea. Simply add 15 grams of tamarind to boiling water and simmer for about 15 minutes. Then, add 2 teaspoons of green tea to the water and simmer for more 5 minutes. Strain both the liquids and mix them well. Just allow the mixture to cool and then apply in on the skin. This can be used as a natural skin toning and hydrating agent.
Benefits of Tamarind or Imli in Treating Dark Rings Around The Neck:
Women mostly complain about the dark patches on their neck, which is also seen in men. There is an instant solution for this. Read below to know how to use tamarind or imli for treating dark rings around the neck.
You would require 1 teaspoon of tamarind concentrate, 1 teaspoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of rose water. Simply mix the tamarind concentrate with honey and rose water and apply the paste on the neck and leave it for at least 20 minutes. Then wash it off with rose water or warm water. By doing this once in a week for about 2 months, you can help in eliminating the dark patches completely.
Tamarind or Imli Eliminates Pigmentation:
Tamarind or Imli is packed with AHA and tamarind is an established anti-blemish agent. It also acts as a natural remedy for pigmentation.
You simply need to apply freshly prepared tamarind juice on your clean face two times in a week for erasing the blemishes and pigmentation and reveal clearer skin.
Tamarind or Imli Acts As A Natural Anti-Aging Agent:
It is natural that we all want to remain ageless forever. Well if you are trying for some natural ways to reduce aging skin, then you can simply go for tamarind or imli that acts as a natural anti-aging agent. It is loaded with several acids, fiber, antioxidants and vitamins that combat the free radicals that cause premature aging. You can use the tamarind and semolina pack daily and get a radiant skin and youthful look. Read below to know the process.
You will require 1 tablespoon of tamarind pulp, 1 tablespoon of gram flour, 1 teaspoon of semolina and 1 teaspoon of honey.
Simply mix all the ingredients so as to form a fine paste and then apply the paste on freshly cleansed face. Let this stay for at least 10 minutes or until it dries. Then after, wipe off the pack by using a soft sponge and then wash it off and towel-dry. Do this for twice in a week to get best results.
A Natural Remedy For Cellulite:
Are you looking to eliminate cellulite from your body naturally? Then try out the below mentioned remedy that make use of tamarind or imli for few weeks.
You would require 2 teaspoons of tamarind extract, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and half teaspoon of baking soda.
Simply mix all the ingredients well to form the paste and apply it on the skin and gently scrub in circular motion using a brush. Repeat this process at least two times in a week for about one or two months. This would reduce the visibility of cellulite. However, make sure you do it before you get your skin waxed, as it could create blisters.
NOTE: It must be noted that this remedy is only suitable for individuals with oily skin
Hair Health Benefits of Tamarind or Imli:
If you want to improve your hair health then you can go for a natural remedy. Read below to know how you can use tamarind or imli to improve your hair health.
Benefits of Tamarind or Imli In Treating Hair Loss:
Tamarind is known to strengthen your hair and also prevent hair loss. Just know how to use this pack and test it for yourself.
You would require 15 grams of tamarind pulp. Just soak a lemon-sized ball of tamarind or Imli in water for about 10 minutes. Then extract the liquid and massage it all over your hair and scalp. Dip a towel in warm water and squeeze out the extra water. Use this, hot towel for covering your hair and scalp and leave it for half an hour. Then, rinse off thoroughly with a nice shampoo and follow it with a conditioner. Repeat this two times in a week for preventing hair loss.
Treats Oily And Greasy Scalp:
Oily scalp causes a lot of hair disorders including hair loss, dandruff etc. controlling the production of sebum in the scalp in one of the best solutions for getting flaunt-worthy hair. You can trust tamarind pulp for doing this. Use the following process to prepare the pack and make use of it for getting rid of the greasiness from your scalp instantly. You will need 2 tablespoons of tamarind or imli pulp, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of buttermilk. Just mix all the ingredients for forming a smooth paste and apply this paste on your hair and gently massage for about 5 t0 10 minutes. Let this pack remain for another 15 minutes. Wash it off using warm water and a mild shampoo. Do this once every week for getting rid of oil from your scalp.
Other Health Benefits of Tamarind or Imli:
Enhances Immune System Function:
Tamarind or imli is rich in vitamin C which along with other antioxidants, aids guard your cells and organs from foreign body invasion, thus protecting you from a lot of diseases.
Moreover, tamarind or imli has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic and antipyretic properties that help in enhancing your immunity.
Benefits of Tamarind or Imli in Weight Loss:
Tamarind or Imli aid you lose a few pounds. Yes! You read it right. Tamarind contains HCA or Hydroxycitric acid, which is a unique compound which is connected to weight loss. This compound helps inhibit an enzyme in our system that helps the storage of fat. Additionally, having tamarind suppresses your appetite for a long time, specially by increasing the secretion or a neurotransmitter or serotonin.
Antiseptic Properties of Tamarind or Imli:
Usually those who are kitchen klutz; meet with cuts, burns and bruises. Tamarind is one of the antiseptic solutions you can use in such cases. This is known to have medicinal properties that heal wounds and prevent infections from spreading in the body. Tamarind has strong antimicrobial properties because of the presence of tannins, terpenoids and citric acids.
Benefits of Tamarind in Managing Diabetes:
One of the most important health benefit of tamarind or imli is that it is beneficial in managing diabetes. The tart and tasty tamarind can aid monitor and manage blood sugar fluctuations. This is because the fruit aids inhibit the enzyme alpha-amylase which helps in weight loss. It slows down carbohydrate absorption, which otherwise can cause the formation of simple sugars or fats and can increase the levels of insulin. So, it is usually advised for a diabetes patient to consume tamarind or imli on regular basis.
Benefits of Tamarind in Preventing Cancer:
Treating cancer is really a long and painful process. However, we can try to prevent cancer and tamarind plays a great role in this. Tamarind is a great source of antioxidants. It aid in curbing the growth of cancerous cells in the body by preventing the formation of free radicals. The harmful radicals cause major dysfunction in the system. The abundant fiber content present in this fruit binds to the toxins present in the food taken. Thus, this protects the mucus membrane of the color from the chemicals that might cause cancer.
For Constipation:
Constipation is a condition that is quite common and can happen to anyone. It is really annoying and makes you feel bloated, irritated and stuffed at the same time.
Tamarind or imli pulp is used as a mild laxative. Taking a few spoonfuls of the pulp can improve bowel movements considerably. The sticky pulp of tamarind or imli is a great source of non-starch polysaccharides as well as dietary fibers such as gums, pectin, mucilage, hemicelluloses and tannins. These saccharides and fibers add bulk to your stool and thus facilitate the bowel movements.
Benefits of Tamarind or Imli In Treating Jaundice and Malaria:
Tamarind or Imli is a warm fruit that is known to be antiviral and antipyretic. So, taking a small piece of tamarind two times in a day can aid keep malaria fever under control.
Tamarind or imli is also beneficial in treating jaundice. In case of jaundice, the RBCs present in the liver are overwhelmed by the presence of bilirubin or a yellow chemical secreted by the liver. The elevated levels of this particular bilirubin chemical causes yellowing of eyes, urine and skin. Tamarind or Imli is known to be very effective in maintaining liver health and regulating bilirubin levels, thus reducing the chances of jaundice. Just following the below mentioned natural treatment every day for curing jaundice.
You would require 100 grams of tamarind pulp, 50 grams of plum, 50 grams of dry coriander seeds, 50 grams of dry lily flower, a clay pot, 4 liters of water, candy sugar for taste. You need to take the pot and add all the ingredients to it. Add water to the container to cover the ingredients and leave it on overnight. Mix all the ingredients well the next day and strain and store the juice in an airtight container. Drink this solution every morning for seven days. You can add candy sugar for taste.
Beneficial In Treating Inflammation:
Inflammation is a serious issue and it can affect a few internal organs of our body. This in turn can cause a great deal of discomfort and even pain for some people. Tamarind is a good natural medicine that can be used to treat inflammation. Tamarind seed extract protect our bones, cartilage, joints from the possibilities of arthritis. The anti-inflammatory action of tamarind or imli aid break down inflammatory chemicals, like interleukin and blocks the formation of enzymes that are responsible for breaking down of bones and cartilage.
Simply make a solution of half teaspoon of roasted tamarind seed powder and water. Take this two times in a day for enhancing joint lubrication and easing the joint pain.
Benefits of Tamarind During Pregnancy:
Tamarind has been used to cure a lot of pregnancy-related issues such as morning sickness, nausea, upset stomach, constipation etc. This fruit is loaded with fiber, which apart from inhibiting overeating, promotes fetal development. Tamarind also has stomach cooling effects, which come in handy when you have a strong urge to throw up. You can simply such a piece of tamarind that is seasoned with salt and pepper, so as to prevent nausea. However, it is essential for you to consult with your doctor before using it in pregnancy.
For Bilious Disorder:
In order to treat or cure bilious disorder in an effective manner, you can include tamarind in your diet. Bilious disorders are basically the result of irregular and uncontrolled production of bile in the live that causes upset stomach and fever. Tamarind, being bilious substance, aids in the proper stimulation of the production of bile. This, in turn can aid dissolve food faster and also regulate gastric juices. All these processes lead to enhanced digestion.
Benefits of Tamarind or Imli In Treating Piles:
There is one more benefit of tamarind or imli and that is it aids in treating symptoms of piles. Piles are very painful. Not being able to move and sit freely is really a curse. However, there is a natural solution for dealing with this painful problem, and that solution in tamarind or imli.
Tamarind juice, extracted from its flowers is used in treating piles, both internal as well as external. Take this medicinal concoction for treating piles.
You will need one-and-half tablespoon of tamarind flower extract, 1 glass of fresh yogurt, 1 teaspoon of ginger, 1 teaspoon of coriander powder, 1 teaspoon of pomegranate. All you need is, mix all the ingredients well and have this concoction with your lunch every day until the symptoms subside.
Cardiovascular Health Benefits of Tamarind:
Tamarind or Imli is really great for our heart. Tamarind is very effective in controlling cholesterol levels, it does this by lowering the bad cholesterol or the LDL and promoting the good cholesterol or HDL with the aid of the antioxidants and phenols. It also exhibits strong vasodilatory effects because of the high potassium content present in it. This keeps your blood pressure under control. All these factors, along with the abundance of Vitamin C, aid in reducing the stress on the cardiovascular system.
Tamarind or Imli Can Help Get Rid of Mouth Ulcers:
Canker sores or the mouth ulcers can be treated with the help of tamarind. This fruit has a cooling effect and can easily calm the burning sensation caused by mouth ulcers.
For best results, use a concoction made of tamarind pulp and a mix of crushed herbs like mint or coriander. Take this medicine twice in a day for quick recovery
Control Cholesterol Levels:
High cholesterol level has become one of the most common disorders in people between the ages of 25 to 50 years. There are many younger people at the borderline risk zone. Now, blame it on bad lifestyle and food choices or anything else; you need to trust of nature and make use of a natural remedy called tamarind for getting cholesterol in control.
This fruit plays an indirect and very crucial role in controlling the cholesterol levels in the body. The dietary fibers in tamarind bind to the bile salts formed from cholesterol and decrease its reabsorption. This aids in excreting bad cholesterol and keeps the heart healthy.
Tamarind Acts As A Cleansing Agent:
Tamarind or Imli is a wonderful cleansing agent. This is because of the fact that its pulp is full of antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. These aids in getting rid of stubborn bacteria and viruses from the body.
Tamarind when mixed with other solutions, works well for cleansing the eyes, cleaning out toxic deposits present in the kidney and also in relieving stomach worms. Such solutions can also relieve a sore throat.
Tamarind or imli is especially beneficial in treating dry eyes because of the presence of a chemical similar to mucin or a chemical that aids protect and wet the cornea surface.
Blood Purification Benefits of Tamarind or Imli:
Tamarind of Imli is a pulpy fruit and is full of essential minerals, vitamin C and dietary fiber; all of which aid in the blood purification. As, mentioned earlier, the antioxidants found in tamarind actively scavenge the free radicals and thus, oxidizes and purifies the blood. Hence, including this fruit to your daily meal is extremely beneficial.
Provides Relief from Sunstroke:
Tamarind or imli has also one more benefit and that is it aids in providing relief in sunstroke. Just massage the palms and soles of feet with tamarind pulp to get relief. You can alternatively also soak 25 grams of tamarind in a glass of water and drink the tamarind water to find relief in sunstroke. Taking tamarind helps in getting relief in sunstroke and some of its effects like uneasiness, nausea, etc.
Beneficial in Treating Digestive Disorder:
There is another health benefit of tamarind or imli. It helps in treating digestive disorders and improves the digestive system functions. The presence of abundant fiber in this fruit bulks up the stool, making it smoothly pass via the stomach and intestines. Also, the bilious effects of this fruit keep our colon, liver, and other digestive organs pretty healthy.
So, make a point to have tamarind regularly for improved digestion.
Treat Fluorosis:
Fluorosis occurs when water with excess of fluoride is consumed. The immediate effects are seen in the teeth and it causes teeth to become yellow and decay because of enamel erosion. Long-term consumption of fluoride causes calcification effects on the bones. The joints and movements become restricted and painful. Apart from this, the spinal column becomes stiff and painful. The muscles and ligaments may also calcify, cause pain and also lose their free movements.
Drinking tamarind water destroys the fluoride ions and thereby prevents fluorosis. Adding salt to tamarind water tremendously increases the capacity of the water to remove the fluoride content present in it.
Aids Blood Circulation:
There is another benefit of tamarind or Imli and that is it aids in proper circulation of blood. This is so because it is a good source of iron. A serving of tamarind pulp provides round 10% of the daily recommended portion of iron, which is responsible for increasing the RBCs or Red blood cells count in our blood. This, in turn, ensures proper supply of oxygen to every cell and organ.
So, in order to keep anemia at bay; do eat a lot of tamarinds or imli.
Improves Nerve Function:
Natural ingredients have been used for a better cognitive function since ages. Remember almond or glass of milk you have been drinking since your childhood? One more natural remedy for enhancing nerve function is tamarind or imli. It contains a rich amount of thiamine or vitamin B6, which is responsible for improving our nerve function and our memory. So, add this fruit to your diet.
Some Precautions to Be Maintained While Using Tamarind or Imli:
- Tamarind is known to be pretty safe in usage at levels used in foods. However, it increases the risk of bleeding if taken along with certain drugs that have a propensity for increasing risk of bleeding; such as aspirin, ibuprofen, anti coagulants, anti platelet drugs, and non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs.
- Though there is no known contradiction for use in pregnant and nursing women, they should take the advice of their doctor before using it.
- Moreover, tamarind or imli may also cause lowering of blood sugar levels. Thus, diabetics should take note on this after consulting physician.
Now we know about some of the best benefits of tamarind or imli for skin, hair and overall health. So, you can use this natural remedy to get rid of several issues while keeping safe and maintaining safety precautions. Kindly consult with your doctor, in case you are taking any medicine.