Curry Leaf Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Curry leaves come from the curry tree, Murraya koenigii. The curry tree is an evergreen tree native to Asia. Its leaves are dark green and known for their fragrant scent. The leaf stems of the curry tree produce small, ovate leaflets. These leaflets are dark green and shiny.¹

Curry leaves are a staple in Indian and Asian cuisine. Commonly, curry leaves are available in a dried form to add to Asian cooking.²

Curry Leaves Health Uses and Health Benefits

Curry leaves health benefits come from their excellent nutritional profile. Curry leaves contain carbohydrates and fiber but they also contain lots of minerals vitamins. These include calcium, iron and phosphorus as well as B vitamins and vitamins A, C and E. ³

Curry leaves health benefits are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Curry leaves have long been used to help reduce swelling and protect against many inflammation-related conditions.²

Studies have shown that curry leaves are also highly effective at lowering oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is an underlying condition that often leads to developing disease like diabetes and heart diseases. Curry leaves are particularly good at lowering oxidative stress related to the pancreas. ²

Curry leaves for hair have also been traditionally used to prevent greying.³ Other curry leaves health benefits include:

• Improving digestion
• Lowering cholesterol
• Treating anemia
• Preventing cancer by protecting against carcinogenic damage

Curry leaves uses include helping to treat and prevent the following conditions:

• Obesity - Curry leaves help to improve digestion especially fat absorption, which helps to manage weight and control obesity.
• Morning Sickness - Curry leaves are a traditional treatment for morning sickness used in Asia. Eating curry leaves can help stop nausea and vomiting.
• High Cholesterol (Hypercholesterolemia) - The antioxidant benefits in curry leaves can help to reduce bad cholesterol and boost good cholesterol levels.
• Diabetes - Curry leaves help to combat diabetes in several ways. Curry leaves help to control blood sugar levels by improving insulin levels. Curry leaves also help to lower oxidative stress, which can help to prevent early indicators of diabetes.

Curry Leaves Side Effects and Precautions

There are no known severe curry leaves side effects. However, some people may have individual allergies to curry leaves which may cause upset stomach.

References

1. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d441
2. http://www.livestrong.com/article/283292-what-are-the-benefits-of-curry-leaves/ 
3. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/Health-benefits-of-curry-leaves/articleshow/30904781.cms