Tamarind
Tamarind
Tamarind also known as “Indian date” is a sweet and sour fruit that is an integral part of the Indian cuisine and has many health benefits.
Tamarind is considered good for constipation due to its laxative property. It helps to boost immunity as it is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it useful in managing common cold.
Tamarind powder might also help to manage blood sugar as well as insulin levels and is thus considered good for diabetic patients. It might also be beneficial for people trying to manage weight as it helps decrease food cravings thereby preventing overeating.
Also, eating Tamarind pulp helps to eliminate worms from the stomach due to its anthelmintic property.
Applying a paste of Tamarind seed powder along with honey on the skin helps in faster wound healing and also prevents skin infections due to its antimicrobial activity.
Tamarind paste should always be used in combination with rose water, milk or honey as it may cause hypersensitivity in some people if used alone[1][2].
Tamarind is considered good for constipation due to its laxative property. It helps to boost immunity as it is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it useful in managing common cold.
Tamarind powder might also help to manage blood sugar as well as insulin levels and is thus considered good for diabetic patients. It might also be beneficial for people trying to manage weight as it helps decrease food cravings thereby preventing overeating.
Also, eating Tamarind pulp helps to eliminate worms from the stomach due to its anthelmintic property.
Applying a paste of Tamarind seed powder along with honey on the skin helps in faster wound healing and also prevents skin infections due to its antimicrobial activity.
Tamarind paste should always be used in combination with rose water, milk or honey as it may cause hypersensitivity in some people if used alone[1][2].
What are the synonyms of Tamarind?
Tamarindus indica, Ambli, Imlii, Amlam, Cinca, Sinja, Puli, Amalaphalam, Sincha, Chincha, Beeta, Tintrini, Chandra
What is the source of Tamarind?
Plant Based
Benefits of Tamarind
Modern Science View
Tamarind (Imli) might be useful in managing constipation as it acts as a good laxative due to the presence of high amounts of malic, tartaric and potassium acid[3][9].
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind is good for managing constipation in both adults and children due to its Rechana (laxative) property.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon of tamarind pulp or paste.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water and drink at night before sleeping to manage constipation.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon of tamarind pulp or paste.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water and drink at night before sleeping to manage constipation.
Modern Science View
Due to its medicinal value, Tamarind can be beneficial in managing stomach disorders like indigestion[12].
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind promotes digestion and helps to manage stomach disorders like indigestion and flatulence due to its Deepan (appetizer) property.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind pulp or paste.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water and drink it at night before sleeping.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind pulp or paste.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water and drink it at night before sleeping.
Modern Science View
Tamarind (Imli) might be useful in managing jaundice and other hepatic problems. Tamarind contains ascorbic acid and β-carotene that possess excellent anti-oxidant and hepatoprotective properties. It protects the liver cells against drug induced toxicity and also helps to regenerate the liver cells, decrease the level of liver enzymes and improves liver function and[3][10].
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind might be useful in improving liver function and digest the digest food easily due to its Deepan (appetizer) nature. It also helps in the regeneration of liver cells due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
2. Add to 1 glass of warm water and drink it after lunch and dinner.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
2. Add to 1 glass of warm water and drink it after lunch and dinner.
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind (Imli) is useful for nasal blockage and cold due to its Ushna (hot) potency and Kapha balancing properties. It helps to remove sputum from the respiratory tract and gives relief in case of nasal blockage and cold.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
2. Add 1 teaspoon honey and mix.
Take it after lunch and dinner to get relief from cold.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
2. Add 1 teaspoon honey and mix.
Take it after lunch and dinner to get relief from cold.
Modern Science View
Tamarind is believed to be beneficial in managing worm infections. The tannins in Tamarind are known to have anthelmintic property. Tamarind causes paralysis of the worm leading to its death[3][11].
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind helps to control worm infestation in the intestines due to its Krimighna (anti-worms) property.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon tamarind pulp or paste.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water and drink it at night before going to bed.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon tamarind pulp or paste.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water and drink it at night before going to bed.
How effective is Tamarind?
Insufficient evidence
Common cold, Constipation, Fever, Indigestion, Liver disease, Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, Worm infections
FAQs about Tamarind benefits
Precautions when using Tamarind
Other Interaction
Modern Science View
Tamarind may increase the risk of bleeding. So it is advised to consult your doctor while taking Tamarind along with blood thinners[5].
Modern Science View
Tamarind may act as a laxative. So it is advisable to consult your doctor while taking Tamarind along with laxatives[5].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Tamarind may lower the blood sugar level. So it is advised to monitor your blood sugar level while taking Tamarind along with anti-diabetic drugs[3].
FAQs about Tamarind precautions
Recommended Dosage of Tamarind
- Tamarind Paste - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day or as per your taste.
- Tamarind Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Tamarind Capsule - 1-2 capsule twice a day.
- Tamarind Candy - As per your taste.
How to use Tamarind
1. Tamarind paste With Water
a. Take ½ teaspoon tamarind paste.
b. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water.
c. Have it at night before sleeping to manage constipation.
2. Tamarind Chutney
a. Soak ½ cup of Tamarind in 2 cups of water overnight.
b. Mash and strain the soaked Tamarind to bring out its pulp.
c. Now boil the obtained Tamarind pulp on a low flame.
d. Add 1 teaspoon of dried Ginger powder.
e. Add ½ cup of Jaggery to it.
f. Add ½ teaspoon of Salt and black pepper to it.
g. Continue to boil it on a low flame for 15 mins with continuous stirring.
2. Tamarind Water Mouthwash
a. Soak 1-2 raw Tamarind in 1 glass of water overnight.
b. Mash and strain the soaked Tamarind to separate the seeds.
c. Use this obtained Tamarind liquid as a mouthwash.
d. Use this remedy 1-2 times a day to get rid of mouth ulcers.
a. Take ½ teaspoon tamarind paste.
b. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water.
c. Have it at night before sleeping to manage constipation.
2. Tamarind Chutney
a. Soak ½ cup of Tamarind in 2 cups of water overnight.
b. Mash and strain the soaked Tamarind to bring out its pulp.
c. Now boil the obtained Tamarind pulp on a low flame.
d. Add 1 teaspoon of dried Ginger powder.
e. Add ½ cup of Jaggery to it.
f. Add ½ teaspoon of Salt and black pepper to it.
g. Continue to boil it on a low flame for 15 mins with continuous stirring.
2. Tamarind Water Mouthwash
a. Soak 1-2 raw Tamarind in 1 glass of water overnight.
b. Mash and strain the soaked Tamarind to separate the seeds.
c. Use this obtained Tamarind liquid as a mouthwash.
d. Use this remedy 1-2 times a day to get rid of mouth ulcers.
Benefits of Tamarind
Modern Science View
Tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP) might be beneficial in improving the dry eye signs and symptoms. Tamarind seed polysaccharide has mucoadhesive and pseudoplastic properties which helps protect and wet the corneal surface. Studies suggest that it is well tolerated with no reported side effects like blurred vision, ocular redness, ocular burning and ocular itching and can improve the tear film stability over a period of time[3][6].
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind seed helps reduce irritation and inflammation in the eyes and brings a soothing effect if you use tamarind seed extract based eye drops due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Ropan (healing) properties.
How effective is Tamarind?
Insufficient evidence
Dry eyes
Precautions when using Tamarind
Allergy
Ayurvedic View
Use Tamarind leaves paste or seed powder with milk or rose water if your skin is hypersensitive.
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind has Ushna virya (hot) potency so use the fruit pulp with honey on the skin.
Recommended Dosage of Tamarind
- Tamarind Powder - 2-5 gm or as per your requirement.
How to use Tamarind
1. Tamarind Seeds with Rose water
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Tamarind seed powder.
b. Add rose water to it and make a smooth paste.
c. Apply on the skin and let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 4-5 times a week to get rid of eczema and itching[4].
2. Tamarind Leaves Kwath (Decoction)
a. Take Tamarind (Imli) 8-10 leaves.
b. Boil them in ½ cup of water till the quantity of water reduces to half.
c. Use this Tamarind decoction to wash your wounds for better hygeine[4].
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Tamarind seed powder.
b. Add rose water to it and make a smooth paste.
c. Apply on the skin and let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 4-5 times a week to get rid of eczema and itching[4].
2. Tamarind Leaves Kwath (Decoction)
a. Take Tamarind (Imli) 8-10 leaves.
b. Boil them in ½ cup of water till the quantity of water reduces to half.
c. Use this Tamarind decoction to wash your wounds for better hygeine[4].
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Tamarind is a rich source of calcium, iron, vitamin B, C, potassium, phosphorous, volatile oils and carbohydrates[4].
Modern Science View
Tamarind contains citric and tartaric acid which contributes to its acidic nature.
Modern Science View
Tamarind may increase the absorption of Aspirin and Ibuprofen. So it is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking Tamarind along with Aspirin or Ibuprofen[3].
Modern Science View
Tamarind leaf extract is known to control the lipid levels due to the presence of its active constituents. Saponins in Tamarind prevent the absorption of lipids from the intestine, thereby reducing the serum cholesterol level. Flavonoids in Tamarind helps in faster clearance of the LDL cholesterol by activating the LDL receptors in liver. Apart from this, epicatechin decreases the level of triglycerides and facilitates the removal of free cholesterol through faeces. Flavonoid, polyphenol and tannins themselves act as antioxidants and also increases the level of other antioxidant enzymes that further prevent lipid peroxidation[13].
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind helps to control high cholesterol level by improving liver function, preventing the absorption of lipids from the intestine and removal of toxins from the body due to its Ama reducing property.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
2. Add 1 teaspoon honey and mix.
3. Take it after lunch and dinner.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
2. Add 1 teaspoon honey and mix.
3. Take it after lunch and dinner.
Modern Science View
Flavonoid, polyphenol and tannins in Tamarind has antioxidant property and prevents lipid peroxidation. It also increases the level of other antioxidant enzymes thereby preventing the formation of atherogenic plaque[13].
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind helps reduce the chances of joint pain, swelling and inflammation in arthritis due to its Vata balancing property.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water.
3. Have it after lunch and dinner.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water.
3. Have it after lunch and dinner.
Modern Science View
Tamarind is used for managing arthritis by inhibiting the enzymes responsible for bone and cartilage damage. Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, Tamarind reduces the inflammation and damage associated with arthritis[14].
Modern Science View
Tamarind contains polyphenolic compounds like epicatechin and procyanidin polymers that are responsible for managing diabetes by improving blood glucose as well as insulin levels. Tamarind also prevents complications associated with diabetes due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties[15].
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind helps maintain blood sugar levels because it improves metabolism and prevents excessive absorption of carbohydrates in the body due to its Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) reduce property which is a major factor for high sugar level in blood.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water.
3. Have it after lunch and dinner.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water.
3. Have it after lunch and dinner.
Modern Science View
Tamarind seed consists of a constituent (TS-polysaccharide) that might be helpful in the management of complications like diabetes, chronic diarrhoea, dysentery, jaundice, ulcers and snakebites. This is due to its anti inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-stress properties. It might also help in weight management by reducing food craving due to the presence of certain active compounds[17-20].
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind seed powder can be used to manage the symptoms of digestive problems like dysentery or diarrhea due to its Grahi (absorbent) property. It helps to control the loss of water from the body. It also helps in quick healing of wound because of its Ropan (healing) nature.
Modern Science View
Tamarind oil is good for heart and helps to manage cholesterol. It also provides energy along with essential nutrients like vitamins C and A. Tamarind oil contains minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, iron, sodium, zinc and B-vitamins (niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, folate)[21][22].
Modern Science View
No, Tamarind is good for sore throat. A gargle with Tamarind soaked water might provide relief from sore throat[23].
Ayurvedic View
Ripe Tamarind helps to reduce the symptoms of sore throat in spite of its Amla (sour) taste because of its Kapha balancing property.
Tip:
Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
Add to 1 glass of warm water and drink it after lunch and dinner to reduce sore throat.
Tip:
Take 1/2 teaspoon Tamarind powder.
Add to 1 glass of warm water and drink it after lunch and dinner to reduce sore throat.
Modern Science View
Excess fluoride in the body is due to its consumption through water or other sources. This can have adverse effects on the body and can cause fluorosis which is a major health problem, especially among children.
It is advisable to consume 10 g of Tamarind per day to reduce the excess fluoride content in the body. Tamarind helps eliminate excess fluoride through urine within 24 hrs of consumption due to its property to increase urinary pH[24].
It is advisable to consume 10 g of Tamarind per day to reduce the excess fluoride content in the body. Tamarind helps eliminate excess fluoride through urine within 24 hrs of consumption due to its property to increase urinary pH[24].
Modern Science View
Cellulite is a condition in which the skin has a lumpy appearance due to excess fat deposition. It is usually seen in thighs, hips, abdomen, upper arms and buttocks. Although it is not a serious medical condition but it can be embarrassing. It is not scientifically proven that Tamarind helps in burning cellulite directly, however Tamarind has the potential to lower food cravings which might help to reduce weight. It also helps to provide elasticity to the skin[9][14].
Modern Science View
Yes, Tamarind might be beneficial against disease causing microorganisms and therefore can be used as an antiseptic. Studies have shown that Tamarind has antibacterial property due to the presence of certain phytochemicals[26].
Modern Science View
Yes, Tamarind consist of certain compounds (trypsin inhibitor) that helps to control food consumption which furthers help to achieve weight loss[20].
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind is an effective remedy to control weight when added to the diet. Tamarind helps to improve metabolism and reduce Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) because of its Deepan (appetizer) and Kapha balancing properties.
Modern Science View
Tamarind is one of the most craved foods during pregnancy and might provide relief from nausea and vomiting. However consumption of Tamarind in high quantities might induce spontaneous abortion. So, it is advisable to consult your doctor before having Tamarind during pregnancy[23][27].
Modern Science View
Yes, Tamarind might be beneficial for blood purification. It is due to the presence of certain active compounds and antioxidant property of Tamarind[28][29].
Modern Science View
Yes, Tamarind might help to manage pain and swelling associated with mouth ulcers. It is due to the anti-inflammatory property of Tamarind[19][30].
Modern Science View
Tamarind (Imli), being a valuable and rich source of Vitamin C has excellent antioxidant properties. anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic and UV protection properties. Tamarind also helps in the collagen synthesis thereby improving skin texture and controls fine lines and wrinkles and give a radiant young look[7][8].
Modern Science View
Tamarind can be applied on cuts, wounds and abscess. Due to its antimicrobial activity it prevents infection and aids in healing of these wounds[9].
Ayurvedic View
Tamarind helps in quick healing of cuts, wounds, and abscess when applied on the affected area due to its Ropan (healing) property.
Tips:
1. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Tamarind seed powder.
2. Add rose water to it and make a paste.
3. Apply on the skin and let it sit for 5-6 hours.
Tips:
1. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Tamarind seed powder.
2. Add rose water to it and make a paste.
3. Apply on the skin and let it sit for 5-6 hours.
Modern Science View
Yes, the antimicrobial and photoprotective property of Tamarind helps in getting a clear skin by controlling the level of oil in the skin, improving elasticity, moisture and melanin levels[25].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Tamarind helps to prevent acne when applied on the affected area by controlling excess oil production. This is due to its Kashaya (astringent) property. It also helps the skin glow.
Modern Science View
There is not much evidence to state the benefits of Tamarind for hair.
References
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- Sundaram MS, Hemshekhar M, Santhosh MS, et al.Tamarind seed (Tamarindus indica) extract ameliorates adjuvant-induced arthritis via regulating the mediators of cartilage/bone degeneration, inflammation and oxidative stress.Sci Rep.2015;5:11117.
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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.