The Multifaceted Benefits of Drumsticks in Your Diet
Drumsticks, also known as Moringa oleifera leaves, are an excellent source of various vitamins, fiber, protein, and phosphorus. These nutrient-dense vegetables bring a plethora of health benefits, from fighting infections and managing diabetes to promoting heart health and improving vicarious vision.
Rich in Nutrients and Medicinal Properties
Drumstick is a fast-growing tree widely used in traditional medicine, particularly in Siddha medicine. Its delicateseed pods are a valuable vegetable containing important nutrients, and its medicinal properties make it a cherished remedy for various ailments. Drumsticks are a rich source of calcium, iron, and phosphorus, which are essential for bone health, especially in growing children and older adults.
Strengthen the Immune System
Drumsticks are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help fight common ailments like colds and flu, and prevent infections. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of drumsticks can relieve symptoms of asthma, coughing, and wheezing, making it an excellent addition to a immune-boosting diet. Moreover, the vegetable is rich in essential B vitamins, including vitamin B12, which plays a crucial role in stimulating the release of digestive juices and aiding the proper functioning of the digestive system. It also assists in the digestive process by breaking down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into simpler compounds.
Regulate High Blood Pressure
The bioactive compounds niaziminin and isothiocyanates found in drumsticks help avoid the thickening of arteries and reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure. The rich antioxidant profile of drumsticks improves blood and nutrient circulation to the heart, thereby regulating blood pressure. Additionally, the vegetable helps in reducing stone formation by removing toxins from the kidneys, and its high vitamin A, C, beta-carotene, and niazimycin content helps inhibit cancer formation.
Improve Liver Health
The liver, being a vital organ, flushes toxins from the system and assists the gallbladder in secreting bile. Drumsticks, with their hepatoprotective function, protect the liver from harmful toxins. They stimulate the production of glutathione, a detoxifying antioxidant that combats free radicals, reducing stress on the liver. Drumsticks also help protect the liver from damage caused by anti-tubercular drugs and speed up the healing process. The natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of drumsticks can reduce swelling and modulate the immune response to prevent further deterioration of the condition. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of drumsticks are effective in fighting infections caused by E. coli, salmonella, and rhizopus, and its powerful antioxidant, quercetin, can treat tuberculosis and prevent skin infections.
Regulate Diabetes
Naturally low in calories and rich in essential minerals, vitamins, and fiber, drumsticks help significantly reduce blood sugar spikes. Studies show that isothiocyanates, a plant compound found in moringa, can aid in weight loss and improve glucose tolerance, thereby regulating blood sugar levels.
Promote Good Vision
Drumsticks are rich in antioxidants that are beneficial in treating cataracts and dry eye. The eye-friendly nutrients in drumsticks prevent thickening of capillary membranes and retinal dysfunction, promoting good vision.
Benefits of Drumsticks During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Adding drumsticks to your diet can help pregnant women combat symptoms of morning sickness, and the abundance of folic acid in drumsticks can help prevent neural tube defects that can lead to serious birth defects in newborns. Moringa leaf juice mixed with ghee is often given to women after childbirth to improve breast milk production. Drumsticks, with their amazing nutritional profile, promote skin radiance and health. Extracts have moisturizing and cleansing properties that counteract the harmful effects of pollutants on the skin.
Delays Signs of Aging
Moringa oil and leaf/her powder work as a natural remedy to reduce wrinkles and blemishes, and toning the skin tone. Applying the moringa leaf paste to the skin and leaving it on for 15 minutes before washing it off can improve the texture of the skin and make it look younger.
Acne Remedies
Drumsticks’ powerful antibacterial properties are effective in preventing acne. The vegetable’s high collagen protein content works on large pores of the skin, tightening the skin. Ingesting moringa leaf or pod powder purifies the blood, resulting in cleaner, healthier skin.
Improves Sperm Count and Vitality
Drumsticks are a highly valued vegetable for increasing vitality and sexual potency. They are proven to improve sperm count and overall reproductive health.