Summers and mango are a match made in heaven. The mango, sometimes known as the "King of Fruits," is a delectable fruit that is in season during the summer. This tropical fruit is delicious and full of health-giving nutrients. This fruit is loved by everyone whether it is the tart raw mango or the sweet-sour ripe mango. Mangoes are good for immunity, support heart health improves eye health and aid digestion. But did you know that this fruit's leaves are also edible and are reputed to be highly healthy? We Indians only know how to use mango leaves once, and that too on a special or lucky day. For your front door, our grandmother and mothers used to prepare mango leaf toran garlands. We hardly ever had any other knowledge on how to use mango leaves. Mangifera Indica is the name given to mango leaves in scientific jargon. Mango leaves have been used for their therapeutic abilities for thousands of years according to Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine.
Here are some benefits of mango leaves-
Highly Nutritious
Mango leaves are known to be high in flavonoids and phenols and are loaded with the goodness of vitamins A, C, and B. They are also known to be rich in potent antioxidants. Mango leaves are believed to have therapeutic qualities that can aid in the treatment of several illnesses. You might be surprised to learn that in some cultures, young, green mango leaves are regularly fried. Mangifera indica is one such kind of mango whose leaves have been used for medicinal purposes since antiquity. The Ayurveda also refers to the medicinal benefits of mango leaves.
Helps Lower Blood Pressure
According to scientists, mango leaves may lower blood pressure since they have hypotensive characteristics. Hypotensive refers to the quality that has abnormally low blood pressure. The leaves strengthen and improve the condition of the blood vessels. Varicose veins can be effectively treated with mango leaves.
Anti-Cancer Properties
Mangiferin, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory found in mango leaves, has been shown in numerous studies to have anti-cancer properties. Mango leaves are believed to have anti-cancer characteristics and can stop the damage caused by free radicals, which are the main cause of illnesses like cancer. The leaves include traces of antioxidants like polyphenols and terpenoids. They help to fight the free radicals and lower the risk of cancer.
Prevents Diabetes
Mango leaves help in managing diabetes. Anthocyanidins, a type of tannin found in the tender leaves of the mango tree, may aid in the treatment of type 1 diabetes. To cure the same condition, the leaves are either dried and powdered or used as an infusion. Diabetic retinopathy and diabetic angiopathy are also helped by it. Overnight, soak the leaves in a cup of water. Pour this water through a strainer and consume it to help with diabetes symptoms. It also aids in the management of hyperglycemia.
Promotes Hair Health
Mango leaves are an age-old method of quickening hair development. The leaves are full of vitamins C and A, which increase the formation of collagen, which is vital for having healthy hair. Mango leaves also provide a glossy finish to your hair. These leaves contain flavonoids that can naturally dye hair black. Make a paste using fresh mango leaves. After applying the paste to your hair, give it a 15-minute rinse with water.
Treats Stomach Ulcers And Hiccups
Since ancient times, mango leaves have been used to treat hiccups and stomach ulcers. Sometimes hiccups are so obstinate that they are challenging to stop. Mango leaves in this case operate like magic. Smoke from burning mango leaves is inhaled. It will assist in minimising hiccups. Warm water mixed with mango leaves can be consumed daily to treat stomach ulcers.
mango leaves/ unsplash.com
To begin with, boil 10–12 mango leaves in 150 ml of water to make mango tea. Have it in the evening or on an empty stomach. Alternatively, you can use mango leaf tea bags. Simply steep them in hot water for 2–3 minutes before drinking.
