New Delhi, October 10 (IANS). Jaggery is a precious gift of Indian tradition. In our country, the tradition of eating jaggery after meals is not only for taste but also for health. While sugar only provides sweetness, jaggery provides energy, digestive power and protection from diseases to the body.
In Ayurveda, it has been called Madhur Ras Pradhan, Ushnavirya and Vata-Kapha Shamak, that is, it gives strength to the body, improves digestion and keeps the blood pure.
In Ayurvedic texts like Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, jaggery has been described as a digestive power enhancer, blood purifier and strength enhancer. It is especially beneficial in cold, anemia, constipation, fatigue and menstrual problems.
Jaggery contains rich amounts of iron and folate, due to which it removes anemia and purifies the blood. Its consumption in winter keeps the body warm from inside and helps in removing mucus. Eating some jaggery after meals activates digestion and reduces problems like gas or acidity. Jaggery contains glucose, minerals and enzymes, which give freshness and strength to the body.
Antioxidants like zinc and selenium are found in jaggery, which keep skin and hair healthy. It is also helpful in controlling cholesterol and detoxifying the liver. Decoction of jaggery and ginger for cold and cough, jaggery and ghee to improve digestion, and jaggery and lemon water to detoxify the body are very effective home remedies. Consumption of jaggery and sesame seeds provides relief from menstrual pain, while jaggery and fennel remove gas and heaviness.
It is beneficial to eat a small amount of jaggery daily in winter, whereas in summer its consumption should be limited because its nature is hot. It is considered good to eat some jaggery in the morning on an empty stomach or after meals.
–IANS
PIM/AS
