South Indian cuisine is a rich repertoire in various forms, and rhythms of eating. One of the many unique factors characteristic of it is the use of different types of leaves that not only add a little taste to the food but contain several benefits to the human body. Van Lavino, being the best cafe in Hyderabad, is a believer in the same. And so it is time to immerse ourselves in this world of sacred leaves and shine on their positive effects.
1. Banana Leaf
Health Benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Banana leaves are an excellent source of antioxidant compounds that assist in preventing oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Anti-Microbial Properties: It contains some properties that allow for having a natural anti-microbial that can help in the health of digestion.
- Sustainable: Banana leaves used instead of disposable plates is a proper way of thinking about the future of our planet.
Why It’s Special: Food in South Indian homes is served on plantain leaves, which is said to give the food a special flavor. The natural oils present on the leaf also assist in the digestion process of food and also make food have a faint smell. the digestion
2. Curry Leaves (Kadi Patta)
Health Benefits:
- Boosts Digestion: These help in avoiding indigestion and bloating, which is common with most people today.
- Rich in Vitamins: The vitamins that are found in the fruits include vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E.
- Anti-Diabetic: It assists in controlling the amount of glucose in the blood.
Why It’s Special: The curry leaves are used greatly while preparing tadka for the curries and soups. They differ in their smell and taste, being an essential part of South Indian meals and preparing many types of meals enriching their taste.
3. Drumstick Leaves (Moringa)
Health Benefits:
- Nutrient-Dense: Loaded with vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, vitamin A & C.
- Anti-Inflammatory: It is quite famous for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Supports Immune Health: Strengthens the body’s natural defense mechanism, which is attributed to the improvement of the body’s overall health status.
Why It’s Special: Drumstick leaves are essential in preparing Sambar; this is a preparation made from lentils and others containing very high nutrition digest. It is packed with nutrition benefits and also gives an extra taste.
5. Mint Leaves (Pudina)
Health Benefits:
- Soothes Digestive Issues: It can also be used in easing symptoms pertaining to indigestion or nausea.
- Rich in Nutrients: Comes with vitamin A and C, iron, and magnesium as the main nutrients that are present in it.
- Freshens Breath: Can be used to cure mouth odors, gum diseases, and other health-related illnesses.
Why It’s Special: Mint leaves, or pudeena; these leaves are also used in chutneys and also used as seasoning in many dishes in order to give a refreshing touch and also to ease indigestion.
6. Betel Leaves (Paan)
Health Benefits:
- Digestive Aid: Enhances digestion and can be of assistance in handling stomach problems.
- Anti-Inflammatory: It has compounds that help to reduce inflammation.
- Antioxidant: Rich in antioxidants that play a role in countering free radicals or free radical scavengers.
Why It’s Special: Paan leaf is used to prepare the offering and consumed with areca nut and limes for digestion as well as to stimulate the brain.
7. Bay Leaves (Tej Patta)
Health Benefits:
- Digestive Health: Aids in the breakdown of food and may help control the symptoms associated with nausea and indigestion.
- Anti-Inflammatory: It consists wholly of compounds, which bear the characteristic of anti-inflammatory.
- Rich in Vitamins: Has been proven to contain necessary vitamins and minerals.
Why It’s Special: It can be used to enhance the taste of food items such as rice and curries. It’s a little bit sweet and has an aromatic smell. They are not consumed as they are added into the dish and give out their flavors when the food is being prepared.
8. Neem Leaves
Health Benefits:
- Detoxification: The Japanese have recognized it for its ability to cleanse the body, thus a detoxifying herb.
- Anti-Microbial: Proper for dealing with infections and preserving the health of your teeth and gums.
- Blood Purification: Has positive effect in treating diseases of the blood and has skin benefits as well.
Why It’s Special: The leaves of this tree are incorporated in some traditional meals and also in treatment processes for various ailments due to their side-adding health-promoting properties.
Cook with these leaves to increase the flavor of South Indian dishes, and it has so many nutritional benefits to our body. Find the top quality and healthy food at the most aesthetic cafe in Hyderabad, Van Lavino, where we provide you with the best!
