The 19 benefits of tamarind: a fruit with multiple virtues

Last updated August 1, 2023 at 08:12 AM

Discover the incredible benefits of tamarind: a tropical fruit with multiple virtues! Dried tamarind: beware of its effects on the teeth! Here's how to enjoy it without risk 😁🚫.

Tamarind is a tropical fruit from a tree of the same name, scientifically known as Tamarindus indica. This tree belongs to the Fabaceae family.

The fruit is dark brown unlike its cousin black velvet tamarind ( also called black cat ). tamarind has a pulp that is both acidic and slightly sweet, which is widely used in many cuisines around the world.

It is often used to prepare juices, sauces, confectionery and sweet and sour dishes.

You can also find tamarind in the dried form, which is often the one I use and the one I will talk about a lot in this post. Be careful, dried tamarind is very acidic.

In this section:

Composition of tamarind

Tamarind is a fruit very rich in carbohydrates, proteins and potassium. These components have a positive effect on our everyday health.

100g of tamarind contains approx.

– 238 kcal/1011 KJ

– 62,5g carbohydrates

– 5,1g fiber

– 2,3g protein

– 0,6 g of lipids

– 628mg potassium

– 92 mg of magnesium

– 74mg calcium

– 3,5mg of vitamin C

– 2,8mg iron

– 1,9 mg of niacin

– 14ug folate

– 30 IU Vitamin A

The benefits of tamarind fruit

1. A Rich Source of Antioxidants

Tamarind pulp is rich in phytonutrients that act as powerful dietary antioxidants, boosting the body's immune defenses and reducing inflammation due to oxidative stress.

2. May Have Anti-Cancer Properties

Studies show that tamarind seed extract has anticancer properties through its antioxidant effects and action on cancer-related signaling pathways.

3. May Improve Heart Health and Cholesterol

Tamarind rich in polyphenols and flavonoids helps lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and heart problems.

4. Protects the Liver by Stimulating the Liver System

Tamarind extract contains antioxidants that protect the liver from free radical damage, and regular consumption helps cleanse vital organs like the liver and kidneys.

5. Offers Natural Antimicrobial Benefits and Anti-Inflammatory Properties – Antiseptic Properties

Tamarind has natural compounds with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties that help treat certain conditions like gout, eye irritations, and skin infections.

6. May Offer Antidiabetic Effects

Tamarind seed extract has anti-inflammatory effects that may benefit blood sugar regulation in people with type 2 diabetes.

7. Prevention of atherosclerosis

Tamarind, rich in antioxidants, fiber and potassium, helps prevent atherosclerosis by reducing cholesterol levels and diastolic blood pressure.

8. Tamarind is rich in magnesium

Tamarind is a good source of magnesium, essential for various functions such as bone formation, heart rate and blood sugar control.

9. Promotes Weight Loss

The hydroxycitric acid (HCA) in tamarind can help with weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing serotonin levels.

10. Good for Nerve Function

Tamarind, rich in B vitamins and xyloglucan, helps improve nerve function and muscle development.

11. Maintain healthy blood pressure

Tamarind is high in potassium and low in sodium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure.

12. Promotes Fluoride Excretion

Tamarind can help remove fluoride from the body, reducing the risks associated with excess fluoride.

13. Purifies the blood

Tamarind contains many essential nutrients that help eliminate free radicals and purify the blood.

14. Good for the skin

Tamarind, thanks to its alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and antioxidants, benefits the skin by acting as an exfoliator and preventing premature aging.

15. Makes Infant Teething Easier

Tamarind can help relieve teething pain in infants and is recommended for adults with oral problems.

16. Treats Sore Throat And Respiratory Problems

Tamarind acts as an expectorant to facilitate breathing and treat bronchitis.

17. Reduces Nausea in Pregnant Women

Tamarind can relieve morning sickness in pregnant women by acting as a powerful anti-emetic.

18/ Tamarind for healthy eyes

Tamarind, rich in vitamin A, protects the eyes by preserving the cornea and reducing the risk of macular degeneration.

It can treat conjunctivitis and soothe discomfort caused by light. However, there is no direct evidence to show that it improves impaired vision.

Tamarind contains a substance similar to mucin, beneficial for fighting dry eyes and used in eye drops.

19/ A natural laxative and relief of digestive disorders

Tamarind juice relieves constipation thanks to its fibers (6,1 g/120 g of pulp) which promote intestinal transit and speed up digestion.

Studies show that it may protect against colon cancer. Tamarind, rich in tartaric acid and potassium, acts as a mild laxative, helping people with digestive disorders, especially chronic constipation.

drink a infusion with tamarind after meals, especially after lunch, promotes a healthy digestive system.

The antiseptic properties of tamarind are also beneficial for people with ulcers.

By using tamarind appropriately, it is possible to enjoy its many health benefits. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before making any major changes to your diet.

The dangers of tamarind

Adverse effects of tamarind on blood clotting

One of the major issues with consuming tamarind is its interaction with blood clotting as a blood thinner.

Therefore, people who are already taking aspirin or other blood-thinning medications are strongly discouraged from consuming tamarind as a supplement.

Tamarind-related allergic reactions

It is important to note that tamarind can also trigger allergic reactions in some sensitive individuals.

These allergic reactions can vary in intensity and may manifest as skin rashes, itching, swelling or difficulty breathing.

If you experience allergy symptoms after consuming tamarind, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention.

Beware of hypoglycemia in diabetics

For people with diabetes who regularly use tamarind juice, it is crucial to closely monitor their blood sugar levels.

Tamarind has the particularity of causing hypoglycemia, that is to say a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels.

To avoid any risk, it is recommended to consult a doctor or nutritionist before including tamarind in your diet, especially if you are diabetic.

Caution in case of gallstones

If you suffer from gallstones, it is best to limit your tamarind intake.

This is because tamarind can aggravate the condition of gallstones and lead to painful symptoms.

In such cases, it is wise to research safe alternatives and seek advice from a medical professional to adjust your diet.

Adverse effects on the gastrointestinal system

Due to its acidic nature, tamarind can cause a significant increase in stomach acid levels, which can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or heartburn.

People prone to these gastrointestinal problems should be especially vigilant when consuming tamarind and carefully monitor the reactions of their digestive system.

The dangers of dried tamarind for your teeth

Dried tamarind is a highly concentrated version of tamarind that is like lemon (worse) with a sweet background.

I have personally consumed it raw on a regular basis, sucking on the pulp. No need to tell you that this practice caused me severe pain in my teeth.

The best way to consume it at will is to dilute the dry tamarind in water.

This method allowed me to gradually heal from these pains (because I didn't want to stop).

It is important to note that dry tamarind is extremely acidic and can harm your teeth if consumed in excess.

Tamarind, a fruit with natural laxative properties

Tamarind is a fruit that can act as a natural laxative. This can be both beneficial and problematic.

Indeed, if you have a busy schedule or an important day ahead, consuming tamarind might not be the best idea. It is better to avoid its use at such times.

Tamarind may not be the juice to offer your guests!

Due to its laxative power, tamarind is not really the kind of juice recommended during a meal or a party.

Imagine the embarrassing consequences for everyone! Instead, choose drinks that are less likely to cause digestive discomfort.

Tamarind is a delicious and flavorful fruit, but it requires responsible consumption.

Avoid excessive raw consumption of the dry version of tamarind to protect your teeth, and beware of its laxative effect according to your daily commitments.

By adopting a balanced approach, you can fully enjoy the benefits of this fruit while avoiding the problems it may cause.

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Attention !!

All health content on tedidev.com is provided for general information only, and should not be considered a substitute for the medical advice of your own physician or any other healthcare professional.

If you have concerns about your general health, you should contact your local health care provider.