Can also be known as Murraya koenigii!
Botanically known as Murraya koenigii, curry leaf is a popular ingredient in South Asian cuisine. Native to India, curry leaves are available throughout the year, and cultivated in South Asia, and some parts of America. Rich in nutrients, the leaf contains vitamin A, vitamin B, minerals and amino acids. It is also rich in alkaloids, glycosides, and phenolic compounds, and serves antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Known for its pungent taste, and aromatic touch to dishes, curry leaf is used for a number of medicinal applications as well.
Curry leaf is named “kariveppilai” in Tamil.
Some Amazing Benefits
- With its antioxidant properties, curry leaf protects against oxidative damage.
- Reduces high cholesterol and manages triglyceride levels.
- Curry leaf can help reduce pain through its pain-relieving properties.
- The leaf protects against bacterial infections through its anti-bacterial properties.
Frequently asked questions
● Do curry leaves improve eyesight?
Curry leaf is rich in vitamin A, the nutrient which supports eye health. Regular consumption of curry leaves can help you protect against diseases associated with vitamin A deficiency like “Night Blindness”.
● What are the ways to consume curry leaves other than in chutney?
You can boil them in water, chew them directly, or mix them with buttermilk, as a powder of dried leaves or as a paste. You can also add them in curry as the name suggests. The leaves are also used in different supplements as well.
● How to use curry leaves for hair?
You can apply curry leaf oil or paste for topical application on the scalp. Curry leaf also works for grey hairs as well, you can eat raw leaves daily for effects too.
● Can a curry leaf plant be grown in cold regions?
Curry leaf plant is native to tropical areas, thus is sensitive to cold weather. It can be grown in cold weather but if the temperature goes below freezing point, it will need some special care.
Fun facts about Curry Leaf
- Curry leaf is treated as an ancient medicine in Ayurveda.
- Curry leaf plant belongs to the citrus fruit family.
- Kariveppilai, tamil name of curry leaf means “the leaf used in curry”.
- Not every curry can be eaten with curry leaves.
