The custard apple fruit which is available for a short season (August to October) is one of the most sought after fruits in India. It is made up of a hard green exterior which is non-edible and the main sweet and fleshy fruit is revealed upon cutting open the exterior. While the custard apple has countless health benefits like being rich in antioxidants and minerals like calcium and potassium, its leaves are equally nutritious. They are prized for their health benefits especially in Ayurveda. The leaves are often used for medicinal purposes due to their quick healing capability. They could be applied directly on to the skin or could be used as a combination with other ingredients. Boiling the leaves and consuming them is believed to be quite beneficial. Ayurvedic expert, Dr. BN Sinha suggests the following benefits of custard apple leaves. 1. Regulates sugar in the body
Packed with fibers, the leaves are known to slow down the absorption of sugar in our body and thus, they help in keeping the blood sugar levels in check. Since fiber is digested slowly, over a period of time, it does not cause sudden spikes in your blood sugar levels and thus, helps in keeping your digestive tract working well. 2-3 leaves can be boiled in water and then the mixture can be consumed every morning for best results. 2. Prevents aging of the skinThe leaves are rich in antioxidants that protect your skin from sun damage and delay the aging of cells. A herbal tea made with simmering custard apple leaves in water can be consumed once a day to ensure optimum benefits for the skin.3. Keeps the heart healthyPotassium and magnesium, present in high quantities in these leaves, are known to relax the muscles of the heart and thus, help in preventing the risk of strokes and heart disease.
Image Credit: IStock4.Gives the body overall strength and powerBoiling the leaves in half a cup of water and consuming the mixture every morning keeps your metabolism rate and energy levels up through the day. It helps in flushing out the toxins from your body and you feel more energetic and powerful.5.Heals woundsThe juice of the leaves can be applied to heal wounds as it has anti-inflammatory properties and a soothing effect.
These leaves are a storehouse of benefits. When applied or consumed correctly, they can do wonders to your health. So, don't throw them away!
Disclaimer:The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
Packed with fibers, the leaves are known to slow down the absorption of sugar in our body and thus, they help in keeping the blood sugar levels in check. Since fiber is digested slowly, over a period of time, it does not cause sudden spikes in your blood sugar levels and thus, helps in keeping your digestive tract working well. 2-3 leaves can be boiled in water and then the mixture can be consumed every morning for best results. 2. Prevents aging of the skinThe leaves are rich in antioxidants that protect your skin from sun damage and delay the aging of cells. A herbal tea made with simmering custard apple leaves in water can be consumed once a day to ensure optimum benefits for the skin.3. Keeps the heart healthyPotassium and magnesium, present in high quantities in these leaves, are known to relax the muscles of the heart and thus, help in preventing the risk of strokes and heart disease.
These leaves are a storehouse of benefits. When applied or consumed correctly, they can do wonders to your health. So, don't throw them away!
Disclaimer:The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
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