Tamarind

Tamarind is a very large tree with long, heavy drooping branches with dense foliage. The pods hang on the branches and are brown in color. The outer layer is a hard shell with a soft brown pulp around seeds. This pulp and seed is held together by extensive fiber network. It is sweet and tangy; this spice is widely used in South India.

Benefits:

Tamarind is a rich source of dietary fiber and helps with cholesterol levels. Due to the tartaric acid it is sour to taste and acts as an antioxidant. This is a good source of minerals; copper, potassium, calcium, iron, zinc and magnesium. Also, rich in vitamins; vitamin A and C.

Tamarind may help in the following:

• Mixed with water it is used to treat diarrhea and constipation.