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Drumstick seeds, also known as Moringa seeds, come from the Drumstick tree, which is native to Africa and Asia, especially Northern India. When fresh, these seeds are tender, but they become sturdy like small beans when dried, appearing greyish-white with a wing-like structure. They can be steamed, boiled, or roasted for consumption.
A 100-gram serving of drumstick seeds contains 37 calories, 8.5 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber, and 1 gram of fat. Additionally, this serving provides 30 milligrams of calcium, 460 milligrams of potassium, 141 milligrams of vitamin C, and 74 international units of vitamin A, meeting a significant portion of the daily nutrient intake.
Drumstick seeds offer a range of health benefits:
- Promote Sleep: For those seeking a natural way to enhance sleep, infusing moringa leaves in hot water for 15 minutes and drinking the infusion before bed can help you fall asleep easily and wake up refreshed.
- Rich in Fiber: Drumstick seeds are high in fiber, which supports digestive health. The vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients in the seeds act as a natural laxative, aiding bowel movements and preventing constipation, bloating, and flatulence.
- Regulate Blood Sugar Levels: Regular and moderate consumption of drumstick seeds is believed to lower blood sugar levels and help manage diabetes, thanks to the low glycemic index of moringa seeds.
- Excellent Source of Iron: Drumstick seeds contain three times more iron than spinach. Increasing iron intake can improve blood circulation and oxygen delivery to organs.
- Relieve Joint Pain and Promote Bone Health: Drumstick seeds are a great source of calcium, which helps relieve joint pain, especially in arthritis sufferers. The high levels of antioxidants contribute to their anti-inflammatory properties, supporting bone health and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
- Natural Cancer Cell Killer: Moringa seeds are recognized for their potential anti-carcinogenic properties, which may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
- Abundant in Antioxidants: Drumstick seeds are packed with antioxidants that help eliminate harmful free radicals from the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
- Enhance Skin Health: The antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties of drumstick seeds benefit the skin. The oil extracted from these seeds can be used as a moisturizer or to treat skin conditions like rashes and sunburn.
- Treat Edema: The antioxidant properties of drumstick seeds can help treat swollen and inflamed areas of the body. The extracted oil is thought to be as effective as pharmacological anti-inflammatory treatments.
- Support Liver Function: The liver is essential for detoxification, metabolism, protein synthesis, blood sugar regulation, and bile production. Drumstick seeds are believed to protect the liver, particularly against damage caused by certain medications.
- Combat Malnutrition: The rich nutrient content in drumstick seeds makes them valuable in fighting malnutrition, especially in regions where it is still prevalent.
Health Cautions
While drumstick seeds offer many benefits, excessive consumption can have negative effects. High fiber intake can lead to malabsorption, a condition where the intestines fail to absorb nutrients properly, and can cause constipation if not accompanied by adequate water intake.
For those with diabetes, overconsumption of drumstick seeds, particularly when combined with anti-diabetic medication, may lead to hypoglycemia, a life-threatening condition where the brain does not receive enough glucose. It’s advisable to consult a doctor before regularly consuming drumstick seeds.
Additionally, those who have never consumed drumstick seeds before should be cautious of potential allergic reactions, particularly in urban environments where such seeds are less commonly eaten. Symptoms like wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, and chest tightness require immediate medical attention.
