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In the midst of our daily routines, we often overlook the importance of maintaining our health, which can lead to chronic issues over time. One effective remedy is to maintain a nutritious diet. Drumstick leaves, also known as moringa, can be particularly beneficial in this regard. Here is a suggestion from a nutrition expert.
A superfood that contains 18 types of amino acids is drumstick leaves, also called moringa leaves. “From hair and skin improvement, moringa leaves are so beneficial because of their antioxidant properties,” said dietitian Simrat Bhui.
Moringa leaves are abundant in calcium, therefore they can substitute many calcium supplements. “Because of its high calcium content it is also beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis,” said Bhui.
Furthermore, according to Dr Sangeeta Tiwari, clinical nutritionist, Artemis lite, NFC, drumstick leaves also have a high concentration of antioxidants, including flavonoids, polyphenols, and beta-carotene that help in neutralising free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. “This may help in protecting against chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes,” said Dr Tiwari.
According to Bhui, moringa leaves when mixed with water become a great detoxifying water. “It cleanses the liver as well as is used in treating upset stomach,” said Bhui.
The dietitian said that it also helps prevent cardiovascular ailment by managing high blood pressure. “Its anti-inflammatory properties contribute to good heart health provided a good diet and lifestyle is adhered to,” Bhui remarked.
Bhui added that as moringa is a rich source of potassium and magnesium, it supports hydration and can replenish lost liquids during the summer months. However, moderation is the key. “Moringa leaves are grown in the tropical region of India therefore they are packed with hydrating properties. Moringa leaves can be taken in summer as they are rich in vitamins C, A, and E which boost immunity and make you active,” said Bhui.
The fibre content promotes the feeling of fullness and satiety, reducing overall calorie intake. “Furthermore, the antioxidants in drumstick leaves may help in boosting metabolism and promote fat burning,” said Dr Tiwari.
Bhui shared that the leaves can be chopped and mixed in the flour to make rotis or parathas or blended into powder form and taken with water. “In any form, moringa leaves have extraordinary culinary values,” Bhui said.
Here’s a quick recipe of drumstick leaves or moringa paratha, a unique but nutritious recipe that you can make in under 10 minutes, courtesy Shalini Santhosh Kumar of Early Foods.
She shared the recipe on Instagram.
“The only time-consuming thing is cleaning the leaves. The cooking part is very quick. Take some help from the family or even assign it to your child/elders in the family,” said Kumar.
The bitterness of the moringa leaves is taken out by adding coconut, groundnuts, and a little tamarind! Smart, right?
Ingredients
1tsp – Ghee
Handful – Groundnuts
1/4tsp – Mustard seeds
1/2tsp – Cumin seeds
Turmeric
Long pepper
Dry Ginger
Salt – as per taste
1 bunch – Drumstick leaves
Handful – Fresh chopped coconut
1 small inch – Tamarind
Method
*Heat oil in a pan, temper the spices until they sputter
*Add spices and salt
*Roast all the remaining ingredients until they are dry
*Cool and grind coarsely without adding water to it.
*Your stuffing is ready! Add it into rotis as a stuffing and roll them evenly.
*Cook the paratha on a medium flame with some ghee.
*Enjoy it with a pickle, curd or any sabzi.