Makhana, also called Gorgon nut, is a seed from the lotus plant and is mostly found in India. Also Bihar, a state in India, produces 90% of the world’s total Makhana supply. These are sun-dried lotus seeds with amazing health benefits, which are elaborated on here for you:
Starchy and white Makhanas seeds have ample healing properties. These are used extensively in Chinese medicines, and in herbal concoctions of Ayurveda.
However, its nutritional benefits are more noticeable when eaten raw, in snacks, or in various recipes of food.
Immense Health Benefits of Lotus Seeds for You
Lotus seeds appear to be a humble food. However, their health benefits are manifold. Anyone can enjoy the benefits of lotus seeds or makhana.
Check out why you need to consume them daily-
Exceptional protein source
A vegetarian or vegan struggles to get enough protein daily from plant-based sources. These sources make meeting this need challenging due to their limitations.
Not to worry, they can now have 4.1g of protein from 100 g of Makhanas. This amount of protein boosts the body’s needs quite a bit.
Roughly speaking, a sedentary woman should have 46g and a man should have 56g of protein per day. Luckily, lotus seeds are safe for protein in comparison to meat products. Which provide ample protein but have many unhealthy contents in them too.
Weight-loss
Enormous low-fat nutrients of Makhana prompt recommendations of nutritionists for weight loss. The studies on makhanas are very encouraging, as they find their amazing role in detoxifying the liver and boosting the metabolism.
Lotus Seeds Improves Digestion
Makhanas improve the digestive system because of the presence of fiber and other nutrients that help the appetite. It also regulates bowel movements, when you add them to your healthy diet plan.
Anti-aging
One of the laudable benefits of makhana is its anti-aging property. This has an enzyme called L-Isoaspartyl methyltransferase. That helps in building new cells and repairing damaged protein cells.
For this special property, Makhanas or lotus seeds are blended into several beauty products.
Avail of benefits of lotus seeds!
Lotus Seeds is Anti-inflammatory
Makhanas have a compound called kaempferol, which is a natural flavonoid that averts inflammation. The natural flavanol in this helps control oxidative stress in the aged kidney.
This compound also repairs soft gum tissues, making makhana a boon for dental health.
Anti-cancer properties
Kaempferol compound is effective in reducing cancer in the ovary, breast, and prostate, thanks to its anti-cancerous properties.
Provides relief for Arthritis and strengthens bones
In the long list of nutrients in Makhanas, calcium is also present in plenty. A cup (32g) of makhanas contains 52.2mg of calcium. It also provides other minerals like manganese, potassium, and phosphorous.
Furthermore, calcium is a vital substance for strengthening bones and joints.
Lotus Seeds Helps in Diabetes
Because of their low glycemic index, makhanas are helpful in controlling diabetes. These are very effective in regulating insulin. Because it helps to slow down glucose release into the bloodstream.
Helps in insomnia
Late nights and sleep deficiency cause many health issues. Insomniacs usually suffer from stress and mental qualms that lead to this disorder. It is an excellent home remedy to tackle sleeping issues because of its natural calming abilities over the mind and body.
Benefits of Lotus Seeds for Anti-diarrhea
Makhanas avoid diarrhea, it is a tried and tested ingredient in ayurvedic treatment for diarrhea. It also improves spleen health which controls not only diarrhea but also fortifies the digestive system.
Gets rid of ulcers and mouth sores
Do you have mouth sores and ulcers? Makhanas or Lotus seeds with their anti-inflammatory properties treat and heal sores too.
Useful in Pregnancy
Makhanas are a fine source of minerals, vitamins and protein. These nutrients are important for pregnant women. The regular consumption of makhanas would end the deficiency of vital nutrients.
Helps to treat vital heart and Blood Pressure disorders
Makhanas are low in sodium and high in magnesium content, besides other amazing nutrients. These nutrients help in treating heart diseases and in controlling high blood pressure.
Restore Kidney Functioning
Makhanas contain ample amounts of an astringent. This helps restore kidney function by eliminating waste and toxins from the body. Additionally, lotus seeds help reduce acidity and prevent stone formation.
The diuretic properties of Makhanas help eliminate fluid wastes, thereby improving kidney function.
Improve Sexual Health
Surprisingly, lotus seeds infused with plant-based bioactive chemicals serve as an aphrodisiac. It significantly increases sexual drive and libido in men and women alike. Lotus seeds promote blood flow and supply essential nutrients to the reproductive organs.
It, further, improves fertility and enhances sexual well-being. A handful of roasted Makhanas in the daily diet can help improve poor sex drive in females and erectile dysfunction in males.
Aid Cognitive Functions
Makhanas contain ample amounts of thiamine that helps promote cognitive functions. Regular intake of lotus seeds promotes the production of acetylcholine. It aids in neurotransmission and helps retain the healthy functioning of nerves.
This is just one of the benefits of lotus seeds for you, read on further.
Fix Doshas
According to Ayurveda, different problems in the human body can be divided into the disbalance of Vatta, Pitta, and Kapha. The natural astringent traits of Makhanas can help resolve these imbalances and maintain Tridoshic harmony.
Ideally, Makhanas has a mildly bitter flavor and a sweet aftertaste. It provides a cooling effect on the body and gives nourishment to different body organs. Regular consumption of lotus seeds enriches the skin, improves complexion, and provides a flawless, radiant appearance.
Recipes With Makhana
1. Makhana Chivda
Dry roast 2 cups of makhana in a pan for 5-6 minutes until crisp.
Heat 1 tsp oil, add 10-12 peanuts, and fry until golden.
Toss in 1 tsp cumin seeds, a pinch of turmeric, and salt to taste.
Mix the roasted makhana with the spiced peanuts and cool before serving.
2. Makhana Kheer (Dessert)
Roast 1 cup of makhana in 1 tsp ghee until crunchy, then crush half coarsely.
Boil 2 cups of milk in a pot and add the makhana.
Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
Mix in 2 tbsp sugar and a pinch of cardamom powder.
Serve warm or chilled, garnished with chopped nuts.
3. Makhana Curry
Roast 1.5 cups of makhana in 1 tsp oil for 3-4 minutes, then set aside.
Blend 1 tomato, 1 onion, and 2 garlic cloves into a paste.
Heat 2 tsp oil in a pan, add the paste, and cook until oil separates.
Add 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp cumin powder, salt, and 1 cup water, then simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir in the makhana, cook for 2 minutes, and garnish with coriander.
How Much Makhanas to Consume In Different Forms?
According to physicians, a healthy person can consume 3-6 gms of powdered Makhana in small doses after meals. You can eat powdered Makhana with a dash of honey or a glass of warm milk.
Further, you can consume Makhana in different dishes and starters. However, you must consult a professional Ayurvedic practitioner if you have any health disorders.
Owing to the above amazing Health benefits of lotus seeds/ makhana, make them a part of your regular diet.
Side Effects of Consuming Lotus Seeds
You can consume lotus seeds in minute doses in seed form and as powder. When consumed in excess, Makhana can cause gut problems, such as stomach cramps, indigestion, and constipation.
