Tamarind is high nutrient fruit and has several health benefits. Tamarind has a scientific name Tamarindus Indica, in India commonly called Imli also known as Indian Date. Tamarind name is popularly applied to the pods of the leguminous tree.

These pods are externally extremely hard but within filled with pulp which is acidic and juicy, contains sugar and various acids such as citric acid, tartaric acid, malic acid. There are some other phytochemicals found in tamarind. These are limonene, a natural antioxidant Geraniol, methyl salicylate, safrole, cinnamic acid.

Health benefits of Tamarind

Tamarind is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, and thiamin. It also contains some minerals potassium, iron, calcium, copper, selenium, zinc. Tamarind acts as a laxative due to its high quantity of malic acid. Hence it is mainly used in constipation. Malic acid in tamarind helps to keep oral hygiene as well as it also has the ability to reduce fatigue and pain. Malic acid in tamarind is helpful in boosting energy and skin care. It removes dead skin and reduces signs of aging.

Tamarind is an excellent source of alpha hydroxy acids which acts as exfoliating agent. It helps clean clogged skin pores and keeps the glowing and healthy skin. Tamarind supports healthy heart function because it contains potassium which keeps a normal water balance between cells and body fluid. This balance is required to maintain normal heart rhythm. It also improves blood circulation. It lowers high blood pressure as well.

In lab studies scientists have found that Geraniol, one of the volatile phytochemicals in tamarind is partially responsible for suppressing pancreatic tumor growth. Tamarind is a rich source of vitamin B complex especially thiamin. Thiamin deficiency can cause weight loss, irritability, and confusion, muscle weakness.

Tartaric acid in tamarind acts as antioxidant, anti inflammatory and helps to keep immune system healthy. Tamarind is also useful in heart burn.

Mix tamarind pulp with some yogurt and add ½ teaspoon turmeric powder in it. This is the best home remedy for acne. Vitamin C and vitamin A in tamarind act as a natural cure for many skin conditions.

Tamarind acts as an appetizer.

According to Ayurveda daha means burning sensation. Tamarind is very effective in daha because it reduces the increased heat in the body giving a soothing effect.

Possible side effects of excessive intake of Tamarind

One should not eat more than 10gm tamarind in a day. Excessive consumption of tamarind can cause some side effects. It can cause hypoglycemia as excessive intake of tamarind will lower glucose level in the body.

Tamarind can interact with some drugs like aspirin, NSAID, antiplatelet drugs and it can cause uncontrollable bleeding. Sometimes it can cause an allergic reaction like itching, shortness of breath, vomiting.

Eating Tamarind in large amount promotes the formation of gallstones. Also, it can cause dental erosion.