The tamarind fruit is tropical, native to South Africa, but it can be easily cultivated in tropical and subtropical locations in Africa, as well as in South America, the Caribbean Islands and South Asia.
The tree is large, reaching 30 meters in height, approximately, in its adult phase. The plant also has a voluminous foliage, in addition to the branches that are long and drooping, due to its weight. Tamarind seasons bear many fruits, which have irregular and curved shapes, always at the tips of the branches.
The fruits have, in addition to their irregular shape, a thick rind, in addition to their pulp which is sticky and brown in color, and also presents between 2 and 10 hard, dark brown seeds. Its flavor is sour but slightly sweet.
Fruit is highly prized, although it is not so easily found anywhere, as it contains many nutrients that can help improve health.
Index
Benefits
With important chemical compounds, minerals, vitamins and dietary fiber, tamarind pulp has many health benefits. This is thanks to dietary fiber, which increases intestinal volumes helping to prevent constipation and eliminate bad cholesterol, in addition to tartaric acid, which acts as a powerful antioxidant, fighting free radicals.
Also present in the pulp of this fruit are some volatile phytochemicals such as limonene, geraniol, safrol, cinnamic acid, methyl salicylate, pyrazine and alkylthiazoles which, together, are responsible for many of the benefits.
The infusion made with the leaves can be used to improve biliary and hepatic functions, in addition to febrile conditions. It can also be used to relieve constipation and pain from arthritis.
It has laxative, choleretic, refreshing, colagoga, toning, anthelmintic and anthelmintic properties.
How to make tea?
To prepare tea, use the proportion of one tablespoon for each cup of water. In a container, put the water and bring to fire. When it starts to boil, turn it off and toss it over the leaves in a cup. Keep the mixture covered to rest and, after approximately 15 minutes, strain and consume.
Contraindications
Although there are no records of use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is always recommended to consult a doctor before consumption. The plant has drug interaction with other drugs and plants, so it is essential to always consult a doctor before starting treatments with natural or industrialized drugs.
