Paruppu Keerai – Common Purslane – The Medicinal Herb with Healing Properties for Your Body and Mind
Paruppu Keerai, also known as Common Purslane, is a herbaceous plant that has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb. This leafy vegetable is packed with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that provide numerous health benefits to our body and mind. Paruppu Keerai is commonly found in India, Southeast Asia, and other parts of the world. It is a popular ingredient in traditional Indian cuisine. It is consumed in the form of salads, soups, and stir-fries.
Learning about the nutritional benefits of Paruppu Keerai, also known as Common Purslane, can help individuals who want to enhance their general health and well-being. This blog will discuss a variety of health benefits of Paruppu Keerai and how it can promote general well-being.
Nutritional Benefits of Paruppu Keerai
Paruppu Keerai is a nutrient-dense herb that is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It is a fantastic fountain of vitamins A, C, and E, which are powerful antioxidants that safeguard our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Paruppu Keerai also contains high amounts of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium, which are essential minerals for our body’s proper functioning. The herb is also a great dietary fibre source, promoting digestion and reducing the risk of constipation and other digestive disorders.
One of the unique features of Paruppu Keerai is that it contains a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, which are typically found in fish and seafood. These fatty acids help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and prevent heart diseases. The herb also contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid essential for brain function and development. Exploring the health benefits of Paruppu Keerai, commonly referred to as Common Purslane, can reveal a variety of advantages for individuals seeking to enhance their diet and lifestyle.
Medicinal Properties of Paruppu Keerai
Paruppu Keerai has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries due to its various therapeutic properties. It is considered a natural remedy for different health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis. The herb is known to have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and swelling in the body. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which make it an effective treatment for skin infections and wounds.
Paruppu Keerai is also believed to have diuretic properties, which help to flush out toxins from the body and reduce the risk of kidney stones. It is also an excellent natural remedy for coughs and colds due to its expectorant properties, which help to loosen mucus and phlegm in the respiratory tract. Understanding the numerous benefits of consuming Paruppu Keerai or Purslane can assist in achieving a well-rounded and nutritious diet.
Paruppu Keerai for Mental Health
Apart from its numerous physical health benefits, Paruppu Keerai is also known to affect mental health positively. The herb is a natural mood enhancer that helps to reduce stress and anxiety levels. It contains magnesium, a mineral that helps calm the nervous system and promote relaxation.
Paruppu Keerai is also rich in folate, which is a B-vitamin that plays a pivotal role in mental health. Folate deficiency has been linked to depression and other mental health disorders. Consuming Paruppu Keerai regularly can help to prevent folate deficiency and promote overall mental well-being.
Regarding improving your health and wellness, few foods can compare to the amazing nutritional content and health-promoting benefits of Paruppu Keerai or Common Purslane.
How to Incorporate Paruppu Keerai into Your Diet
Paruppu Keerai is a versatile herb that can be used in various dishes. It tastes slightly tart and acidic, which complements many other ingredients. The easiest way to incorporate Paruppu Keerai into your diet is to add it to salads or use it as a garnish in soups and curries. You can stir-fry it with other vegetables or add it to your favourite smoothie or juice.
Here is a simple dish to get you going:
Paruppu Keerai Stir-Fry
Ingredients
- one bunch of Paruppu Keerai
- one onion, sliced
- two garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil
Instructions:
- Wash the Paruppu Keerai and chop it into small pieces.
- Mustard and cumin seeds are added to hot oil in a pan. Once they start to crackle, add the sliced onion and minced garlic.
- Sauté for a few minutes until the onion turns translucent.
- Add the Paruppu Keerai to the pan and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
- Add turmeric powder and salt to taste.
- Serve hot with rice or chapati.
Conclusion
Regarding nutrition and overall health, it is hard to ignore the benefits of Paruppu Keerai or Common Purslane, which is packed with vitamins and minerals essential for a balanced diet. Paruppu Keerai, or Common Purslane, is a powerhouse of nutrients and medicinal properties that can promote overall well-being.
From its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, Paruppu Keerai is a natural remedy for various health conditions. Its positive effects on mental health make it a valuable addition to your diet. So why not incorporate this versatile herb into your meals today and reap its numerous health benefits!
