When it comes to superfoods, India is a treasure trove. Here’s a list of some very effective superfoods that you’ve perhaps been consuming (or avoiding) since childhood, but try as you may, you can never escape them.
Haldi (turmeric)
A glass of warm milk with a pinch of haldi will not only give you great sleep at night but also make you very healthy. A fantastic immunity booster, turmeric is the solution to most health problems in our country. From healing wounds by working as an antiseptic to adding a bright glow to the skin – haldi is basically all you really need to lead a good life. Well, almost (Photo by Steve Buissinne, Pixabay)
Jau (barley)
You know why most treadmills in Indian homes are used to dry clothes? Because we’ve got a grain that burns our carbs! Popularly known as the ‘poor man’s grain’, jau, it turns out, is very rich in iron, calcium, proteins and vitamin E. The best part is that it keeps you full for longer and also lowers your cholesterol. Even the water it is soaked in turns into a digestive coolant (Photo from Pexels)
Ghee (clarified butter)
That ghee you’ve been avoiding for ‘health reasons’ is actually waiting to do wonders for your body. No, ghee won’t make you fat unless you fry your food in it. It’s a superfood that contains high concentrations of monounsaturated Omega-3s, which are actually great for the heart. You’d be surprised to know that ghee actually reduces unhealthy cholesterol levels. Ghee, by the way, is also good for your bones and great for your skin (Photo from Wikimedia Commons)
Sarson (mustard)
Add roasted mustard seeds to your salad or cook your meal in mustard oil – the miraculous anti-inflammatory condiment can magically take away your aches and pains and remove muscle spasm. Studies have revealed the presence of glucosinolates in mustard that have scientifically been proven to fight cancer of the bladder, cervix and colon (Photo by Enotovyj, Pixabay)
Tulsi (holy basil)
The tulsi plant is worshipped as an avatar of Goddess Lakshmi in Hindu mythology, and we cannot get over the health benefits of the holy basil. Chew a few leaves of tulsi first thing in the morning and swallow it with half a glass of water to evade health problems. This medicinal plant can purify your blood, improve oral health and reduce toxins in your body (Photo by Ravendra Singh, Pixabay)
The lead image shows local alternatives available in India at less than half the cost.
Teesta Rajan is the Associate Director of Village Vibe at Village Square. She is passionate about food, travel and culture.
