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Bok phool, scientifically called Sesbania grandiflora, is a multipurpose plant that has been utilised for millennia in traditional medicine. Called by many names, such as the hummingbird tree agati or heron flower, this blooming tree is native to South and Southeast Asia. Traditional Ayurvedic medicines use every part of the Sesbania grandiflora tree because of its invaluable therapeutic characteristics. It aids with the care of skin troubles, loose stools, and sickness from germs.
Bok phool is a green thing with nice blooms and leaves that are often used in food, but lately, its likely health gains have caught more notice. This simple plant is turning into a big deal in natural healing because of its anti-swelling traits and possible role in stopping cancer. Because of its remarkable nutritional composition, young blossoms and seeds of Sesbania grandiflora are edible right out of the pod and are widely utilised in many different cuisines.
Nutritional Profile
Not only is bok phool a lovely flower, but it's also a nutritious powerhouse that's loaded with important vitamins and minerals. This flower is edible and can be consumed as an additional dish since its leaves and flowers contain vitamin C, calcium and iron. The therapeutic effects of Bok phool are also attributed to the presence of considerable levels of protein, fibre, and other phytochemicals, as per a study published in The Pharma Innovation Journal. However, some of the uses of bok phool are believed to be due to the phytochemicals that are affiliated with tannins as well as flavonoids.
Also read: 5 Incredible Health Benefits Of Sorrel
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
Strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics of bok phool are among its most noteworthy health advantages. While the body has the ability to produce inflammation in reaction to an injury or infection, inflammation, on the other hand, is known to cause several health issues, including diabetes, heart diseases and some types of cancers. Bok phool has anti-inflammatory chemicals that might lessen these hazards. According to a study that was published in the International Healthcare Research Journal, extracts from Sesbania grandiflora significantly reduced inflammation in animal models. Moreover, bok phool has equally remarkable antioxidant qualities. According to a review published in Future Foods, bok phool's antioxidants, particularly its flavonoids, may help guard against oxidative stress and lower the chance of developing chronic illnesses.
Anticancer Effects
The potential anticancer benefits of bok phool are arguably one of the most fascinating areas of investigation. Even more study is needed to fully know its impacts, first results are hopeful. A study examining the anti-cancer properties of leaf extracts from Sesbania grandiflora against a range of cancer cell lines was published in the Journal Of Cellular and Molecular Medicine. The finders found that the plant's juice greatly cut down the rise of some cancer cell types, like colon and breast cancer cells. They said a plant's anti-cancer strength came from some active things, ͏like flavonoids and saponins.
Improves Digestive Health
The bok flower is a good help for eating habits because it has many parts that aid tummy health. This flower has been used in old cures to ease stomach aches and aid with digestion. Bok flower's big fiber amount keeps gut health by lessening constipation and balancing bowel movements. Furthermore, research published in the International Healthcare Research Journal suggests that eating Bok Phool may increase the secretion of digestive enzymes, which enhances the absorption of nutrients. IIt's also great that plant compounds like flavonoids are here. These things help a good gut mix and lower swelling, which helps a fit belly tract.
Traditional Uses & Modern-Day Application
Bok phool has been used to cure a variety of illnesses in traditional medical systems, especially in Ayurveda and South Asian folk medicine techniques. Fever, headaches, anaemia, bronchitis, and even some eye conditions are among them. Interest in this plant's possible modern uses has been raised by its adaptability to traditional healing methods. Some past research has suggested that bits from Bok flower may exert antibacterial effects, which probably means that it might be of use in fighting fungal and germ diseases. As per a study in the Research Journal Of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, it can assist in protecting the liver from damage that may be caused by dirt or diseases.
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
People can improve their digestion and move a big step towards decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress and possibly even preventing chronic diseases by including Bok Phool in their daily health routines. Hence, if one is aiming to improve their standard of living, then incorporating this herb into their diet is inevitable. And it may improve your health in general.
