Many people are turning to the exotic option of tamarind juice to improve their health in various ways, thanks to the possibly rich supply of nutrients and antioxidants in this juice. Tamarind juice comes from the fruit of a tamarind tree, a unique legume-bearing tree scientifically known as Tamarindus indica. Native to tropical areas in Africa, this tree develops hard brown pods, roughly 4-6 inches long, which contain tamarind fruit and seeds. The edible fruit of this tree has a taste that can be described as both sweet and sour, and highly acidic. Although this plant now grows in many tropical areas in the world, it is primarily cultivated and used on the Indian subcontinent.
Nutritional Facts of Tamarind Juice
Tamarind juice is particularly popular because it has a rich supply of B vitamins, calcium, iron, phosphorus, natural sugars, vitamin C, tartaric acid, potassium, magnesium, various carotenoids, and other antioxidant compounds, all of which contribute to the wealth of health benefits in this juice. [1]
| Serving Size : | |
|---|---|
| Nutrient | Value |
| Water [g] | 84.97 |
| Energy | 57 |
| Energy [kJ] | 240 |
| Protein [g] | 0.09 |
| Total lipid (fat) [g] | 0.12 |
| Ash [g] | 0.09 |
| Carbohydrate, by difference [g] | 14.73 |
| Fiber, total dietary [g] | 0.5 |
| Sugars, total including NLEA [g] | 12.7 |
| Sucrose [g] | 0.13 |
| Glucose (dextrose) [g] | 5.92 |
| Fructose [g] | 6.07 |
| Maltose [g] | 0.57 |
| Calcium, Ca [mg] | 10 |
| Iron, Fe [mg] | 0.75 |
| Magnesium, Mg [mg] | 4 |
| Phosphorus, P [mg] | 2 |
| Potassium, K [mg] | 27 |
| Sodium, Na [mg] | 7 |
| Zinc, Zn [mg] | 0.02 |
| Copper, Cu [mg] | 0.01 |
| Manganese, Mn [mg] | 0.02 |
| Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid [mg] | 7.1 |
| Thiamin [mg] | 0 |
| Riboflavin [mg] | 0 |
| Niacin [mg] | 0.07 |
| Pantothenic acid [mg] | 0.04 |
| Vitamin B-6 [mg] | 0.01 |
| Folate, total [µg] | 1 |
| Folate, food [µg] | 1 |
| Folate, DFE [µg] | 1 |
| Choline, total [mg] | 1.3 |
| Betaine [mg] | 0.1 |
| Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) [mg] | 0.12 |
| Tocopherol, gamma [mg] | 0.02 |
| Tocotrienol, alpha [mg] | 0.01 |
| Vitamin K (phylloquinone) [µg] | 0.1 |
| Sources include : USDA [2] | |
Benefits of Tamarind Juice
The important benefits of tamarind juice may include its potential ability to clear up skin conditions, aid in weight loss, protect against free radicals, and reduce inflammation, among others.
May Prevent Atherosclerosis
The carotenes and antioxidants that may be found in tamarind juice can help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol, which will keep it from sticking to the walls of your arteries, thus lowering your risk of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, the potassium in this juice will lower blood pressure and lessen the strain on your heart. [3]
May Prevent Chronic Diseases
With healthy amounts of vitamin C, carotenoids, and other immunostimulant nutrients, this juice can help seek out free radicals and neutralize them before they can damage the system or cause mutation and lead to an increased risk of chronic diseases. [4]
Might Reduce Inflammation
Tamarind juice and fresh tamarind fruits Photo Credit: Shutterstock
This fruit juice is associated with reducing inflammation in the joints and muscles, but also in the stomach and blood vessels, helping to stimulate circulation and prevent ulcers and acid reflux when consumed in moderation. [5]
May Boost Digestion
Tamarind juice may also have mild diuretic qualities, so if you have been backed up or are suffering from constipation, bloating, or cramping, a glass of this in the morning can help normalize your bowel movements. [6]
May Aid in Weight Loss
Some of the enzymes found in tamarind juice have the ability to affect protein activity in the body, namely those proteins that direct fat storage. By inhibiting this activity, this juice can seriously help in your weight-loss efforts. [7]
May Aid with Skin and Hair Care
The juice has been used both topically and internally to improve the health of the skin and hair. It can speed healing and reduce the severity of burns, and minimize signs of aging and wrinkles. It can increase luster and shine, and prevent dry skin, dandruff, and hair loss. [8]
How to Make Tamarind Juice?
With a bit of effort and the right ingredients, you can make your own tamarind juice at home!
Ingredients
- 2 tamarind pods
- 1 tsp sugar
- 4 cups of water (filtered)
Instructions
- To make tamarind juice, shell two tamarind pods and scoop out the pulp.
- Soak the tamarind pulp in 2 cups of warm water for 5-10 minutes.
- Then, add the pulp, water, and sugar to a blender and blend gently.
- Strain the mixture through a sieve or cheesecloth.
- Add the other 2 cups of water, serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
Side Effects of Tamarind Juice
Tamarind juice does have a few possible side effects, some of which include:
- Hypertension: Some of the active ingredients in this juice are known to be vasoconstrictive, so this can elevate blood pressure and should be avoided in people who have hypertension.
- Bleeding: There are reports of negative drug interactions with this juice, particularly anticoagulants, which can exacerbate bleeding disorders and other conditions.
- Acidity and diarrhea: Excess intake can cause acid reflux and other stomach issues, such as diarrhea, because of its laxative effects.
- Hyperglycemia: A case study of a diabetic person who was having hyperglycemia episodes, published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, showed that an herbal tamarind pill could be the possible cause for the blood sugar spike. [9]
