Tne of my most lively memories of growing up was being sent out by my mom at a very early age to pick fresh curry leaves off the trees in our backyard. I would run off to our backyard and try to get the handful of the freshest, darkest green leaves, so mom would use my contribution to make her dishes.
What are Curry leaves?
Curry leaves are known as kadi patta in Hindi and sometimes known as sweet neem leaves (regular neem leaves are very different to curry leaves, as they are very bitter), curry leaves are considered as both a herb and a spice. It is also known as Kaṟivēppilai in Tamil. The fresh leaves are used more widely than the dried version, which tends to be used for spice mixes and when the fresh ones are unavailable. Curry leaves are highly aromatic and have a unique flavor with notes of citrus.
How to use curry leaves?
Curry leaves generally soften when cooked and are used to flavor rice, chutneys, soups, stews, and even dals in many households. To bring out the flavors, it’s recommended that curry leaves be cooked in oil first. The sautéed leaves can then be added back in while the other ingredients are cooking. The dried leaves are ideal to accent a dish instead of overpowering it.
On a cosmetic note, curry leaves are thought to be really good for bad skin and dry, damaged or limp hair. You can start by blending a good handful of the fresh leaves, heat them gently with some cosmetic oil, and massage into the skin or hair as necessary.
As with many other dark leafy greens, curry leaves are high in vitamin C and beta-carotene. Modern medical research has found curry leaves to be effective in treating diabetes, colon cancer and memory loss.
Health benefits of curry leaves
Curry leaves have multiple health benefits. They have been used medicinally and as a flavoring for food.
1. Aids digestion- According to Ayurveda, curry leaves embrace mild laxative properties that not only help the stomach eliminate waste from the system, but also clears the body of ‘Ama’ (toxic waste) and balances out the pitta levels in the body. Tip: Having the juice of curry leaves with fresh lemon juice and sugar will help treat nausea and indigestion.
2. Lowers Cholesterol-Curry leaves are a good source of antioxidants which helps pacify LDL or bad cholesterol level and triggers the increase of HDL or good cholesterol. This process ultimately protects our body from heart disease and atherosclerosis. Tip: Try & incorporate curry leaves in all your meals. Alternatively having fresh leaves on an empty stomach everyday can also help in lowering cholesterol.
3. Prevents Diarrhea-The carbazole alkaloids found in curry leaves contain anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, thereby controlling diarrhea. Tip: If you suffer from diarrhea, gently crush some curry leaves into a ball (Size of a berry), and have it with some butter milk. Consume this twice or thrice a day for relief from diarrhea.
4. Congestion & cold-If you suffer from a wet cough, sinusitis or chest congestion, curry leaves is a very effective home remedy. It helps to loosen up and release congested mucous. Tip: Take a spoon of powdered curry leaves and honey. Make it a paste and eat this mixture twice a day to get relief from congestion.
5. Fights Diabetes-By lowering blood sugar levels, curry leaves prevent diabetes on taking its toll on our health. The leaves affect insulin activity of the body and balances blood sugar level.
6. Healthy eyes-The effectiveness of Vitamin A content imparts strength and rejuvenation to the eyes, and arrests the development of cataract.
7. Curtails Anemia-Curry leaves are an excellent source of iron and folic acid. The presence of folic acid is responsible for carrying and helping the body absorb iron, and since curry leaves is a rich source of both, it is the best natural remedy to beat anemia. Tip: Eat one date (khajoor) with two kadi patta leaves on an empty stomach every morning if you suffer from anemia.
8. Weight buster-Daily consumption of curry leaves enhances digestion, reduces fat and cleanses the intestine thereby reducing your excess weight. Tip: Having a ball of crushed curry leaves every morning in empty stomach with honey is good for those on strict diet.
9. Face beautifier Curry leaves are efficient in reducing pimple, acne and black marks. Tip: Apply a mixture of curry leaf paste and lemon juice on your face. Wash it off with cold water after some time.
Kamaleya brings to you the best flavoured Curry leaves packed with the aromatic pleasure in the form of Kamaleya Rice Podi. At Kamaleya Curry leaves are been procured fresh from our farms in Pallamdam area where our farmers use Vedic agriculture to sow crops. Our motto is "Health meets Convenience”. Our aim is that our food and spices give you the goodness, flavors and aroma that come from pure and unadulterated spices. Add them to your daily diet.
Feel good, Eat good.