What is Moringa or drumstick?
Moringa, also known as drumstick, is a
fast-growing tree that is native to the Himalayan region of India. It is grown
for its leaves, which are highly nutritious and have been used for medicinal
purposes for thousands of years. Moringa leaves are rich in vitamins, minerals,
and antioxidants, and have a unique flavor that has been described as a cross
between spinach and horseradish.
In addition to its leaves, the drumstick tree also produces pod-like fruits that are also edible and highly nutritious. The bark, seeds, and roots of the drumstick tree are also used for their medicinal properties.
Moringa is now widely cultivated and consumed in many parts of the world, and is becoming increasingly popular as a "superfood" due to its high nutritional content. It can be consumed fresh, dried, or powdered, and is often added to soups, stews, curries, and other dishes to boost their nutritional content.
Why do we eat drumsticks?
Drumsticks, also known as Moringa, are
eaten for their high nutritional content. Moringa leaves are a rich source of
vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients, making them a nutritious
addition to any diet. Some of the key nutrients found in Moringa leaves
include:
Vitamins: Moringa leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as B-complex vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin.
Minerals: Moringa leaves are a good source of calcium, iron, and potassium, as well as other essential minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc.
Antioxidants: Moringa leaves are rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body against damage from free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Fiber: Moringa leaves contain fiber, which is important for maintaining good digestion and reducing the risk of constipation.
In addition to its nutritional content, Moringa leaves are also appreciated for their unique flavor, which has been described as a cross between spinach and horseradish. They are often added to soups, stews, curries, and other dishes to boost their nutritional content and add flavor.
It is important to note that while Moringa
is a nutritious and beneficial food, it should be consumed as part of a
balanced diet, along with other healthy foods. Consulting a healthcare provider
before incorporating Moringa into your diet is recommended, especially if you
have any existing health conditions or are taking any medications.
Drumstick benefits to health:
Drumstick, also known as Moringa, is a
highly nutritious plant that has numerous health benefits. Some of the key
benefits of drumstick include:
Antioxidant properties: Drumstick leaves are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage from free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Boosts immunity: Drumstick is a good source of vitamins C and A, which play an important role in boosting the immune system.
Supports cardiovascular health: Drumstick leaves contain compounds that help to lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Drumstick has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the body and improve overall health.
Supports bone health: Drumstick leaves are a good source of calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Supports digestive health: Drumstick leaves contain fiber, which can help to support healthy digestion and reduce the risk of constipation.
Supports eye health: Drumstick leaves contain high levels of vitamin A, which is important for maintaining good vision and reducing the risk of eye problems.
It is important to note that while drumstick is a nutritious and beneficial food, it should be consumed as part of a balanced diet, along with other healthy foods. Consulting a healthcare provider before incorporating a drumstick into your diet is recommended, especially if you have any existing health conditions or are taking any medications.
Benefits as per Ayurveda of Drumstick:
In Ayurveda, drumstick (Moringa/Sahjan) is
considered to have many health benefits and is used as a natural remedy for
various conditions. Some of the key benefits of drumstick, as per Ayurveda,
include:
Boosts immunity: Drumstick leaves are a
good source of vitamins C and A, which play an important role in boosting the
immune system.
Supports digestive health: Drumstick leaves
are believed to help stimulate the digestive system and improve digestion.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Drumstick has
anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the body
and improve overall health.
Supports heart health: Drumstick leaves
contain compounds that help to lower blood pressure and improve overall
cardiovascular health.
Supports eye health: Drumstick leaves
contain high levels of vitamin A, which is important for maintaining good
vision and reducing the risk of eye problems.
Supports skin health: Drumstick leaves are
rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which can help to keep the skin healthy and
reduce the signs of aging.
Supports liver health: Drumstick leaves are
believed to help support liver health and improve liver function.
It is important to note that while
drumstick is a nutritious and beneficial food, it should be consumed as part of
a balanced diet, along with other healthy foods. Consulting an Ayurvedic
practitioner before incorporating a drumstick into your diet is recommended,
especially if you have any existing health conditions or are taking any
medications.
Who consume drumstick:
Drumstick (Moringa) is suitable for
consumption by most people, including children, adults, and the elderly. It is
a nutritious food that is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other
nutrients, making it a great addition to any diet.
However, there are some groups of people who may need to be cautious when consuming drumsticks:
Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Although a
drumstick is considered safe for most people, pregnant and breastfeeding women
should consult their healthcare provider before incorporating it into their
diet.
People taking blood-thinning medications:
Drumstick leaves contain compounds that may enhance the effects of
blood-thinning medications, so people taking these drugs should consult their
healthcare provider before consuming drumstick.
People with autoimmune conditions: People
with autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple
sclerosis should consult their healthcare provider before incorporating
drumstick into their diet, as it may exacerbate symptoms.
People with low blood pressure: Drumstick
leaves contain compounds that may lower blood pressure, so people with low
blood pressure should consume it with caution.
It is important to consume drumstick in
moderation and as part of a balanced diet, along with other healthy foods. Consulting
a healthcare provider before incorporating a drumstick into your diet is
recommended, especially if you have any existing health conditions or are
taking any medications.
How to reduce the bitterness from moringa sticks:
There are many ways to reduce the
bitterness from moringa sticks:
Boiling: Boiling moringa sticks in water for 10-15 minutes before cooking can help to reduce their bitterness. Drain the water and rinse the sticks before using them in a recipe.
Soaking: Soaking the moringa sticks in salted water for 30 minutes can also help to reduce their bitterness. Make sure to rinse the sticks thoroughly after soaking.
Blanching: Blanching the moringa sticks in boiling water for 1-2 minutes and then immersing them in cold water can help to reduce bitterness.
Roasting: Roasting the moringa sticks in the oven for 10-15 minutes can help to reduce bitterness and enhance their flavor.
Cooking with other ingredients: Cooking moringa sticks with flavorful ingredients such as spices, onions, tomatoes, and herbs can help to mask bitterness.
It is important to note that not all moringa sticks will be bitter, and some may not need any special treatment to reduce bitterness. It is best to taste a small piece before cooking to determine if it is bitter, and adjust the preparation accordingly.
I'm sharing a simple recipe for making
drumstick curry:
Ingredients:
4 drumsticks, peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces (250 gm)
4 tbsp raw peanuts
3 tbsp oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 tbsp mustard seeds
Curry leaves
6-7 garlic cloves
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder
Salt, to taste
1 cup water (Warm)
Fresh coriander (for garnish)
Instructions:
Take a wok, and add ½ liter water. Add some
salt and a pinch of turmeric.
Bring a boil, after that add cut drumsticks
and boil until it’s cooked at 80 percent.
Drain it and keep it aside.
In another pan, add peanuts and sauté for
2-3 minutes on medium flame or until peanuts lose skinny.
Cool down completely and make a coarse
powder in a mortal pastel or on a mixture grinder.
In a wok, heat oil over medium heat. Add mustard
seeds and let them crackle.
Add cumin seeds and curry leaves, and sauté
for a while.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add chopped onion, and cook until the onion
is golden brown.
Add chopped tomatoes, coriander powder,
turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft
and mushy.
Add the drumstick pieces to the pan and
stir to coat with the spices.
Pour in 1 cup of water and bring the curry
to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let
the curry simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the drumsticks are tender.
Now add coarse peanuts powder and mix it
well.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious
drumstick curry!
Make this recipe at your home and don’t
forget to share your valuable feedback #ashushomekitchen
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