The Many Health Benefits of Figs (Anjeer), Dates and Turmeric

Figs:

“No greater thing is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig. If you tell me that you desire, I answer you that there must be time. Let It first blossom, then bear fruit, then ripen.”

The fruit that has withstood the test of time - One of the oldest trees in the world, the fig tree that is native to the Middle East and Mediterranean have been around for centuries and have been held in much regard by many generations for centuries. Fresh figs are delicate and perishable and therefore are often dried, to preserve its nutrients and all the goodness it possesses. Figs are also referred to as Anjeer. Fresh figs have a succulent, delectable taste to it and possess many a benefit.

Figs are high in natural sugars, minerals, and soluble fiber and therefore acts as a natural sweetener due to which many a sweet dish are made using figs. They are rich in minerals including potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron and copper and are also a good source of antioxidant vitamins A, E and K that contribute to health and wellness. Phew! That’s one long list of nutritional benefits…

With regards to health benefits, figs help in the prevention of constipation, weight loss, prevention of coronary heart disease, colon cancer, protection against menopausal breast cancer and is good for diabetic patients. Figs have a whole list of other perks attached to it.

Dates:

The many health benefits of eating dates.

“If heaven drops a date, open your mouth”

Did you know that dates are a complete meal by itself? Yes, in fact, the Bedouin tribes from the Middle East have a diet that largely consists of dates. Date palms cover about three percent of the earth’s cultivated surface. It is loaded with an impressive list of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that are required for normal growth, development, and an overall well-being while simultaneously keeping us fit and healthy.

This delicious fruit is not only perfectly sweet to relish, but is also armed with antioxidants and essential minerals, potassium, and magnesium and is also rich in dietary fiber. It is completely free of cholesterol and gives instant energy to the body when consumed.

A date gives relief from constipation, intestinal disorders, heart problems, anemia, diarrhea, abdominal cancer and is good for weight loss as well. Essential minerals such as calcium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium and zinc are found in dates.  It also contains vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, vitamin A and vitamin K. Bone Health and Strength, Anemia, Allergies, and Abdominal Cancer are some of the areas in which dates provide a reprieve.

Everything you need to know about turmeric.

Turmeric – The Golden Wonder Herb - What comes to your mind with the mention of the word Haldi (Turmeric)? For a dutiful Indian, it is the epitome of a typical Indian wedding where turmeric is applied on the bride and groom with the belief that it is an essential part of beautifying the skin apart from other cultural traditions that we will not delve on. We are also well aware of turmeric’s anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-viral properties. Which is why, it is the first thing we run for, to cover a wound or a cut to our body. However, this beautiful, ancient and aromatic powder serves many a purpose apart from what is generally known to people.

Turmeric comes from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, has a tough brown skin, and a deep orange flesh to it. Turmeric is used to cure arthritis, heartburn (dyspepsia), stomach pain, diarrhea, intestinal gas, stomach bloating, loss of appetite, jaundice, liver problems and gallbladder disorders. It is also used for headaches, bronchitis, colds, lung infections, fibromyalgia, leprosy, fever, menstrual problems, and cancer. Other uses of this wonder herb include a cure for depression, Alzheimer’s disease, water retention, worms, and kidney problems.

During the flu season, a simple mix of turmeric, honey, and pepper in a warm glass of water or turmeric mixed with a few drops of lime and ginger powder does wonders in reducing phlegm, a sore throat and even