Strawberry
Strawberry is a sweet, sour and deep red colored fruit. It is a good source of vitamin C, phosphorus and iron.
Strawberry boosts immunity and helps fight various infections and diseases. It promotes heart health and helps reduce high cholesterol due to its antioxidant property.
According to Ayurveda, Strawberries might be useful in managing constipation due to its Vata balancing and Rechana (laxative) properties.
Strawberry is used in a variety of cosmetic products such as scrubs and creams as it is good for the skin. It helps to reduce oiliness from the skin, controls acne and also promotes skin whitening[1][2].
Strawberry boosts immunity and helps fight various infections and diseases. It promotes heart health and helps reduce high cholesterol due to its antioxidant property.
According to Ayurveda, Strawberries might be useful in managing constipation due to its Vata balancing and Rechana (laxative) properties.
Strawberry is used in a variety of cosmetic products such as scrubs and creams as it is good for the skin. It helps to reduce oiliness from the skin, controls acne and also promotes skin whitening[1][2].
What are the synonyms of Strawberry?
Fragaria ananassa
What is the source of Strawberry?
Plant Based
Benefits of Strawberry
1. Constipation
Constipation is caused due to an aggravated Vata dosha. This can be due to frequent consumption of junk food, excess intake of coffee or tea, sleeping late at night, stress and depression. All these factors aggravate Vata in the large intestine and cause constipation. Strawberry helps correct constipation due to its Vata balancing and Rechana (laxative) properties.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder or take fresh Strawberries if available.
b. Add to any drink, smoothie, yogurt.
c. Take it twice a day for effective results.
2. High cholesterol
High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Strawberry helps in controlling high cholesterol because of its Ama reducing property. It also helps to remove blockage from the blood vessels by eliminating toxins.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder or take fresh Strawberries if available.
b. Add to any drink, smoothie, yogurt.
c. Take it twice a day for effective results.
3. Gouty Arthritis
Regular intake of Strawberries is beneficial in case of an excess uric acid such as gouty arthritis. This is because of its Mutral (diuretic) property. It increases urine production and facilitates the elimination of excess uric acid.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder or take fresh Strawberries if available.
b. Add to any drink, smoothie, yogurt.
c. Take it twice a day for effective results.
4. Hypertension
Regular intake of Strawberries could lower blood pressure. This is due to its high potassium content and Mutral (diuretic) effect. It increases urine production and removes excess fluid from the body. This helps control high blood pressure.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder or take fresh Strawberries if available.
b. Add to any drink, smoothie, yogurt.
c. Take it twice a day for effective results.
Constipation is caused due to an aggravated Vata dosha. This can be due to frequent consumption of junk food, excess intake of coffee or tea, sleeping late at night, stress and depression. All these factors aggravate Vata in the large intestine and cause constipation. Strawberry helps correct constipation due to its Vata balancing and Rechana (laxative) properties.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder or take fresh Strawberries if available.
b. Add to any drink, smoothie, yogurt.
c. Take it twice a day for effective results.
2. High cholesterol
High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Strawberry helps in controlling high cholesterol because of its Ama reducing property. It also helps to remove blockage from the blood vessels by eliminating toxins.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder or take fresh Strawberries if available.
b. Add to any drink, smoothie, yogurt.
c. Take it twice a day for effective results.
3. Gouty Arthritis
Regular intake of Strawberries is beneficial in case of an excess uric acid such as gouty arthritis. This is because of its Mutral (diuretic) property. It increases urine production and facilitates the elimination of excess uric acid.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder or take fresh Strawberries if available.
b. Add to any drink, smoothie, yogurt.
c. Take it twice a day for effective results.
4. Hypertension
Regular intake of Strawberries could lower blood pressure. This is due to its high potassium content and Mutral (diuretic) effect. It increases urine production and removes excess fluid from the body. This helps control high blood pressure.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder or take fresh Strawberries if available.
b. Add to any drink, smoothie, yogurt.
c. Take it twice a day for effective results.
Precautions when using Strawberry
Breastfeeding
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Not enough scientific evidence is available on the use of Strawberry during breastfeeding. So, it is advisable to consume Strawberry in food amount[4].
Other Interaction
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1. Strawberry may have anti-cancer activity. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Strawberries with anti-cancer drugs[4].
2. Strawberry may interact with blood thinners. So it is generally recommended to consult your doctor while taking Strawberry with other anticoagulants[4].
2. Strawberry may interact with blood thinners. So it is generally recommended to consult your doctor while taking Strawberry with other anticoagulants[4].
Pregnancy
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Not enough scientific evidence is available on the use of Strawberry during pregnancy. So, it is advisable to consume Strawberry in food amount[4].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Hypersensitivity
2. Urticaria
3. Eczema
4. Neurodermatitis[4]
2. Urticaria
3. Eczema
4. Neurodermatitis[4]
FAQs about Strawberry precautions
Recommended Dosage of Strawberry
- Strawberry Powder - 1-2 teaspoon once a day.
- Strawberry Juice - ½ -1 cup twice a day or as per your requirement.
How to use Strawberry
1. Strawberry Powder
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder.
b. Add to any drink, smoothie, yogurt.
c. Take it twice a day for effective results.
2. Raw Strawberry
Eat raw Strawberry as per your requirement and liking.
3. Strawberry Crush
a. Take 1-2 Strawberry.
b. Add it to milk and blend well.
c. Add few pieces of ice and drink.
4. Strawberry Jam
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Strawberry jam.
b. Apply on bread or enjoy as per your liking and requirement.
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder.
b. Add to any drink, smoothie, yogurt.
c. Take it twice a day for effective results.
2. Raw Strawberry
Eat raw Strawberry as per your requirement and liking.
3. Strawberry Crush
a. Take 1-2 Strawberry.
b. Add it to milk and blend well.
c. Add few pieces of ice and drink.
4. Strawberry Jam
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Strawberry jam.
b. Apply on bread or enjoy as per your liking and requirement.
Benefits of Strawberry
1. Acne
An aggravation of Kapha leads to an increased sebum production and clogging of pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. Strawberry helps to remove excess oil in the skin and thus control acne. This is due to its Amla (sour) property.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Strawberry powder.
b. Mix it with milk to make a paste.
c. Keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
d. Apply evenly on the face.
e. Wait for 15-20 minutes and wash your face with normal water.
f.Or, take 1-2 ripe Strawberries.
g. Mash well and mix it with honey.
h. Keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
i. Apply evenly on the face.
j. Wait for 15-20 minutes and wash your face with normal water.
2. Dandruff
According to Ayurveda, dandruff is a condition marked by flakes of dry skin on the scalp. This is due to an aggravated Vata and Pitta dosha. Strawberry helps in balancing Vata and Pitta dosha and controls dandruff.
Tips:
a. Take 6-7 ripe Strawberries and mash well.
b. Mix with 1 tablespoon of coconut milk to make a smooth paste.
c. Apply on your hair.
d. Cover your head using a shower cap.
e. Keep for 20-30 minutes.
f. Wash with a mild shampoo.
g. Repeat this twice a month for shiny hair.
An aggravation of Kapha leads to an increased sebum production and clogging of pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. Strawberry helps to remove excess oil in the skin and thus control acne. This is due to its Amla (sour) property.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Strawberry powder.
b. Mix it with milk to make a paste.
c. Keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
d. Apply evenly on the face.
e. Wait for 15-20 minutes and wash your face with normal water.
f.Or, take 1-2 ripe Strawberries.
g. Mash well and mix it with honey.
h. Keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
i. Apply evenly on the face.
j. Wait for 15-20 minutes and wash your face with normal water.
2. Dandruff
According to Ayurveda, dandruff is a condition marked by flakes of dry skin on the scalp. This is due to an aggravated Vata and Pitta dosha. Strawberry helps in balancing Vata and Pitta dosha and controls dandruff.
Tips:
a. Take 6-7 ripe Strawberries and mash well.
b. Mix with 1 tablespoon of coconut milk to make a smooth paste.
c. Apply on your hair.
d. Cover your head using a shower cap.
e. Keep for 20-30 minutes.
f. Wash with a mild shampoo.
g. Repeat this twice a month for shiny hair.
Precautions when using Strawberry
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
Contact urticaria
Recommended Dosage of Strawberry
- Strawberry Powder - 1-2 teaspoon as per your requirement.
- Strawberry Juice - 1-2 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Strawberry
1. Strawberry Mask
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Strawberry powder.
b. Mix it with milk.
c. Keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
d. Apply evenly on the face.
e. Let it sit for 4-5 mins.
f. Wash thoroughly with fresh water for glowing and acne free skin.
2. Strawberry Scrub
a. Mash 1-2 Strawberries.
b. Gently massage it over the face for 2-4 minutes.
c. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of dullness and blackheads.
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon Strawberry powder.
b. Mix it with milk.
c. Keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
d. Apply evenly on the face.
e. Let it sit for 4-5 mins.
f. Wash thoroughly with fresh water for glowing and acne free skin.
2. Strawberry Scrub
a. Mash 1-2 Strawberries.
b. Gently massage it over the face for 2-4 minutes.
c. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of dullness and blackheads.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
You can eat 8 Strawberries in a day and is sufficient to meet your vitamin C demand.
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1. Mash few ripe Strawberries.
2. Separate the seeds.
3. Clean the seeds and dry them properly.
4. Strawberry seeds are also available in the market and can be purchased directly.
2. Separate the seeds.
3. Clean the seeds and dry them properly.
4. Strawberry seeds are also available in the market and can be purchased directly.
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Strawberries need an approximate of 8 hours of sun to grow. The weather conditions are very important in case of Strawberries for its proper growth and development.
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Strawberry plants require regular watering. Water them in the day rather than in the evening.
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Strawberries can be applied on face as it acts a natural remedy for rejuvenation and helps control acne. It can be applied on the face in the form of scrub, cleanser and moisturizer.
Tips:
a. Take 2-3 Strawberries.
b. Blend in a blender.
c. Add it to your massage cream.
d. Massage gently on your face and neck 2-3 times a day.
Tips:
a. Take 2-3 Strawberries.
b. Blend in a blender.
c. Add it to your massage cream.
d. Massage gently on your face and neck 2-3 times a day.
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One large Strawberry has around 6 calories approximately.
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You can make Strawberry mask at home by following the instructions below:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder.
b. Mix it with milk.
c. Keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
d. Apply evenly on the face.
e. Let it sit for 4-5 mins.
f. Wash thoroughly with fresh water for glowing and acne-free skin.
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Strawberry powder.
b. Mix it with milk.
c. Keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
d. Apply evenly on the face.
e. Let it sit for 4-5 mins.
f. Wash thoroughly with fresh water for glowing and acne-free skin.
Modern Science View
Yes, a diabetic patient can have Strawberries but only after consulting a doctor. Strawberries are rich in fibre and contains an optimum amount of sugar[3].
Ayurvedic View
Strawberry is an acidic food. It has a sour taste which can cause heartburn if taken in excess amount.
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Strawberry may be useful in promoting hair growth. Consuming one cup of Strawberry can provide about 84.7g vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which may be useful in hair growth[11][12].
Modern Science View
Yes, Strawberry may be useful in managing weight due to its anti-obesity property. Strawberry extract may lower the accumulation of lipids in the fat cells and contribute to weight loss[7][8].
Modern Science View
Yes, Strawberry may be useful in managing Diabetes. Strawberry is rich in vitamin C and phenols that have potent antioxidant property. It increases the production of insulin and lowers glucose levels in the blood[5][6]. But it is advisable to consult your doctor if you are on any anti-diabetic drugs.
Modern Science View
Yes, Strawberry may be useful in managing piles (also known as hemorrhoids). Strawberry is rich in fibre and flavonoids. It adds bulk to the stool, increases intestinal motility and helps in easy expulsion of stool. It also reduces pain and bleeding associated with piles[9].
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available stating whether a pregnant woman can or cannot eat Strawberry. However, Strawberry is beneficial for general health as it is a rich source of vitamins and other essential nutrients which might help to manage complications related to various health conditions[2].
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Yes, Strawberry is rich in nutrients. It contains certain nutrients that help fight against cancer. Strawberries are also rich in vitamins, namely vitamin A and C, that might help protect the skin, improve eyesight and strengthen metabolism. Furthermore, Strawberries are rich in dietary fibre and potassium that might help prevent constipation and increase bone density as well as regulate blood pressure respectively[2].
Modern Science View
Strawberry tea is healthy due to its low calorie count. It is rich in polyphenols, vitamins and antioxidants which help in strengthening metabolism. This might prevent complications like weight loss, issues related to blood pressure and cholesterol[13].
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Dried strawberries can be eaten as a healthy snack due to their high nutritional value. They are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C and certain essential nutrients which makes them a healthy snack to be incorporated in your daily diet. Dried strawberries are mostly used in healthy snack bars, muesli, cereals, shakes etc for enhancing taste as well as nutritional value[19].
Modern Science View
Yes, Strawberry is good for the skin. It contains polyphenols that have depigmentation property[10].
Ayurvedic View
Strawberry helps to reduce excessive oil from the skin due to it’s Amla (sour) property. This helps to remove dirt from the skin and promote skin whitening.
Modern Science View
It is not scientifically proven if Strawberries have any medical use with respect to teeth. It is a myth that Strawberries act as teeth whitening agent, however, it has led to enamel erosion in a few cases[14].
Modern Science View
Strawberry oil is mostly used in cosmetics due to its photoprotective effect. It might help in healing photoaged skin (damage or aging due to UV exposure). Also, Strawberry oil has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties due to which it might be useful in reducing blemishes, rejuvenating and healing the skin[2][15][16].
Modern Science View
Yes, Strawberries contain certain constituents that have anti-melanin activity which might help reduce the dark spots and lead to skin whitening[17][18].
References
- Sharma S, Joshi VK, Abrol G.An overview on Strawberry [Fragaria × ananassa (Weston) Duchesne ex Rozier] wine production technology, composition, maturation and quality evaluation.NPR;8(4):356-365.
- Giampieri F, Tamara F, Gasparrini M,et al. Strawberry as a health promoter: An evidence based review. Food & Function.2015;6(5):1-14.
- Afreen S, Gasparrini M, Battino M,et.al.Promising Health Benefits of the Strawberry: A Focus on Clinical Studies.J. Agric. Food Chem.2016;64(22):4435-4449.
- Ulbricht CE.Natural Standard:Herb and Supplement Guide, An Evidence Based Reference.Elsevier;2010.
- Abdulazeez SS, Ponnusamy P.Antioxidant and hypoglycemic activity of strawberry fruit extracts against alloxan induced diabetes in rats.Pak. J. Pharm. Sci.2016;29(1):255-260.
- Da Silva Pinto M, de Carvalho JE, Lajolo FM et al.Evaluation of antiproliferative, anti-type 2 diabetes, and antihypertension potentials of ellagitannins from strawberries ( Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) using in vitro models.J Med Food.2010;13(5):1027-1035.
- Xiao-Xin L, Wei-Xi T, Xiao-Feng M.Inhibitory effects of strawberry extracts on animal fatty acid synthase.Journal of the Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.2010-06.
- Zhu Q, Nakagawa T, Kishikawa A et al.In vitro bioactivities and phytochemical profile of various parts of the strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa var. Amaou).J Funct Foods.2015;13:38-49.
- Sarfaraz S, Sarwar G, Baig L et al.Screening of strawberry juice for role in fecal evacuation.The Pharma Innovation Journal.2015;4(6):7-9.
- Zhu W, Gao J.The use of botanical extracts as topical skin-lightening agents for the improvement of skin pigmentation disorders.ournal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings.2008;13:20-24.
- USDA.Basic Report: 09316, Strawberries, raw.2018.United States.
- Kwack MH, Shin SH, Kim SR et al.l-Ascorbic acid 2-phosphate promotes elongation of hair shafts via the secretion of insulin-like growth factor-1 from dermal papilla cells through phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase.Br J Dermatol.2009;160(6):1157-1162.
- Najgebauer-Lejko D, Sady M. Estimation of the antioxidant activity of the commercially available fermented milks. Acta Sci Pol Technol Aliment. 2015 Oct-Dec;14(4):387-396.
- Brambert P, Qian F, Kwon SR. Erosion Potential of Tooth Whitening Regimens as Evaluated with Polarized Light Microscopy. J Contemp Dent Pract. 2015 Nov 1;16(11):921-925.
- Gasparrini M, Forbes-Hernandez TY, Afrin S et al.Strawberry-Based Cosmetic Formulations Protect Human Dermal Fibroblasts against UVA-Induced Damage.Nutrients.2017.14;9(6).
- Sharma S, Joshi VK, Abrol G.An overview on Strawberry [Fragaria × ananassa (Weston) Duchesne ex Rozier] wine production technology, composition, maturation and quality evaluation.NPR;8(4):356-365.
- Ortiz-Ruiz CV, Berna J, Tudela J et al.Action of ellagic acid on the melanin biosynthesis pathway. J Dermatol Sci. 2016 May;82(2):115-22.
- Schulenburg K, Feller A, Hoffmann T et al.Formation of β-glucogallin, the precursor of ellagic acid in strawberry and raspberry. J Exp Bot. 2016 Apr;67(8):2299-308.
- Kowalska J, Kowalska H, Marzec A et al.Dried strawberries as a high nutritional value fruit snack. Food Sci Biotechnol. 2018;27(3):799-807.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.