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Various regions worldwide have been using taro leaves in an array of culinary fares. Also called Colocasia leaves, arbi ke patte, kochu paata, saru patra, seppam ilaigal, chama akulu; these greens are loaded with vitamins and nutrients. A few popular Indian dishes include Maharashtrian Patal Bhaji, Gujrati Patra, Lavingya Paatra, Kochu Paata Chingri and many more. Consuming arbi leaves in the right way can give fantastic health benefits to the human body.
Here is a list of goodness that these leaves offer!
Reduces the risk of anaemia
Iron minerals are abundant in arbi leaves and effectively aid in producing red blood cells. Additionally, because it is high in vitamin C, it aids in the better absorption of iron. This procedure helps supply the body's total requirement for red blood cells.
Guards against cancer
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that assists in avoiding all diseases and combating free radicals that lead to many types of cancer. Taro leaves are packed with this vitamin.
Assists in blood pressure regulation
Arbi leaves contain omega 3, an essential fatty acid. This component acts as a conduit for a hormone that the body uses to regulate the contraction and relaxation of artery walls. If this process functions seamlessly, the body's blood pressure can be easily kept under control.
Increases immunity
You can get 86% of the daily requirement for vitamin C in just one cup of taro leaves. You may quickly improve your immune system and keep your body free from several ailments by eating a few taro leaves daily.
Gujrati Patra, Image Credits: becauseanyonecancook
Reduces cholesterol levels
Taro leaves are an extremely nutritious food. It contains only 1% fat and zero cholesterol. These greens are rich in dietary fibre and methionine, which can lower blood cholesterol levels by binding and metabolising fat and glycerol, particularly triglycerides.
Improves eye health
Arbi or taro leaves contain a high amount of Vitamin A. To maintain good eyesight and eye health, this Vitamin A is a must. It also guards the eyes against developing eye ailments like cataracts, vision loss, and myopia.
Lowers body weight
For people on a weight loss regime, taro leaves are boon. These leaves are extremely high in protein and low in fat content. This implies it is an excellent option if you want to build muscle while losing body fat. Additionally, they contain high levels of micronutrients, including calcium and potassium. That's how taro leaves promote a healthy body weight and support maintaining a healthy heart.
Taro leaves chutney, Image Credits: Smitha Kalluraya @smithakalluraya.com
Things to Remember
Although taro leaves are packed with health benefits, one must exercise certain caution before consuming them.
- Buy the leaves which are light or vibrant green, spotless, fresh and not withered.
- Taro leaves should not be eaten uncooked since they may be harmful.
- Before cooking the leaves, wash them thoroughly and soak them in clean and warm water.
- Cook them for at least 15-20 minutes to remove the poisonous substance (if any)that was previously present on their surface.
- Some of you may develop irritation or allergy after touching raw arbi leaves. Hence using gloves is advised.
- Taro leaves are rich in oxalate content, a plant compound. However, oxalate can considerably contribute to the formation of kidney stones, so those at risk of developing them need to avoid taro leaves.
It is advisable to consult a professional dietician and nutritionist to follow the best way to consume taro leaves.
