Curry Leaves
Curry leaves are small in size and long, slender, and oval in shape narrowing to a point, averaging 2-4 centimeters in length and 1-2 centimeters in width. The shiny, dark green leaves grow pinnately along a stem, and each branch can hold up to twenty, tightly clustered leaves. Curry leaves are extremely aromatic and have a strong flavor that has been compared to citrus, asafoetida, anise, and lemongrass. When cooked, Curry leaves have a mild and slightly pungent bite with a nutty aroma.
Curry leaves, botanically classified as Murraya koenigii, grow on a deciduous tree that can mature to 2-5 meters in height and are part of the Rutaceae family along with citrus and rue. Also known as Karieppilai, Karivepaaku, Kari Patta, and Sweet neem leaves, Curry leaves thrive in tropical and subtropical climates and should not be confused with curry powder. Curry leaves are a fresh herb that comes from the curry tree, while curry powder is a spice mix of seeds, spices, and herbs that have a different flavor altogether. Curry leaves should also not be mistaken for the curry plant, Helichrysum italicum, as it is unrelated.
Benefits of Curry Leaves
Helps keep anaemia at bay
Curry leaves are a rich source of iron and folic acid. Folic acid is mainly responsible for carrying and helping the body absorb iron, and since kadi patta is a rich source of both the compounds it is your one-stop natural remedy to beat anaemia.
Fights diabetes
Not only does kadi patta help lower the blood sugar levels, but also keeps in check for a few days after the administration of curry leaves. Curry leaves help your blood sugar levels by affecting the insulin activity of the body and reduces ones blood sugar levels. Also the type and amount of fiber contained within the leaves play a significant role in lowering blood sugar levels. So, if you suffer from diabetes, kadi patta is the best natural method to keeping your blood sugar levels in check.
Improves digestion
Curry leaves is known to help improve digestion and alter the way your body absorbs fat, thereby helping you lose weight. Since weight gain is one of the leading causes of diabetes, kadi patta treats the problem right at the root.
Lowers cholesterol
Many research shows that curry leaves have properties that can help in lowering one’s blood cholesterol levels. Packed with antioxidants, curry leaves prevent the oxidation of cholesterol that forms LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol). This in turn helps in increasing the amount of good cholesterol (HDL) and protects your body from conditions like heart disease and atherosclerosis.
