Curry Leaves – A Flavouring Agent With Numerous Health Benefits

Indian culinary recipes has curry leaves as one of its essential ingredient. It is more popular among south Indian states. This simple leaf has an amazing flavour and distinctive aroma.

Curry tree is widely grown in Indian subcontinent. Fresh leaves has a light green colour and matured ones has a dark green colour. The powdered form of curry leaves are also used in various dishes. Apart from its culinary uses it is also known for its health benefits. In Kerala it is called by the name ‘Karuveppila‘

Curry tree is a mid sized plant with an average height of 4-5 meters. Curry leaves consumption is beneficial for various medical conditions and for maintaining good health. It is also called as ‘sweet neem leaves’. Curry leaves are known to have several medicinal properties like anti-diabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti – carcinogenic and hepato – protective properties. Leaves, root and the bark are the most useful parts of this plant.

Useful for hair protection

Curry leaves can be used as an effective remedy for various types of hair problems such as dandruff and hair fall. It is  believed to have a positive effect on strengthening the hair roots. Mixture of dry curry leaves and coconut oil can be used for quick massage. Curry leaves contains proteins and beta-carotene required to reduce hair loss. This is useful in treatment for damaged hair, hair fall, dandruff and premature hair graying.

Can be used to minimize the side effects of chemotherapy

Some of the studies reveals that, use of curry leaves can protect the body from the side effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. It is believed to have special powers to protect the bone marrow and chromosoes from damages caused from free radicals in the body.

Provides relief from liver diseases

Liver plays an instrumental role in the smooth functioning of the digestive system. Curry leaves can be useful in protecting liver from the harmful effects of micro organisms like  virus and bacreria. According to variuos studies, tannis and carbazole alkaloids present in curry leaves excibits excellent hepato-protective qualities.

It helps to improve digestion

Curry leaves can play a significant role is solving digestion related diseases. It improves digestion and can influence the fat absorbing qualities of the body, thereby helps to lose weight. Consuming tender leaves with natural honey is used to ease any stomach discomfort or indigestion. Curry leaves are also mixed with other mild herbs to make healthy herbal tea.