Kariveppu

  • Botanical Name : Murraya koenigii
  • English Name : Curry Leaves
  • Sanskrit Name : Kaidarya
  • Malayalam Name : Kariveppu (കറിവേപ്പ്)
  • Part Used : Leaves
About Image

Overview

  • The curry tree (Murraya koenigii) is a tropical and sub-tropical tree in the Rutaceae family, native to Asia. Commonly found in Indian households, curry leaves offer numerous health benefits and are integral to holistic treatments like Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and traditional Chinese medicine, addressing conditions such as diabetes and gastrointestinal disorders.

Habitat

  • Indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, commercial plantations exist in India and in Australia. Ideal growth conditions include well-drained soil, full or partial sun, and temperatures above 18°C (64 °F).

Phytochemistry

  • Curry tree compounds include cinnamaldehyde, carbazole alkaloids, like mahanimbine, and essential nutrients such as carotenoids, beta-carotene, calcium, and iron.
Nutritional Prowess Image

Nutritional Prowess

  • Curry leaves aid in insulin production, lowering blood glucose levels.
  • Rich in iron, curry leaves boost hemoglobin and red blood cell count.
  • Abundant in Vitamin A and β-carotene, curry leaves improve eyesight.
  • Fights infections with potent antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
  • Carbazole alkaloids prevent weight gain and reduce LDL cholesterol.
  • High fiber content alleviates gastrointestinal issues and enhances appetite.
  • Phenols and carbazole alkaloids may prevent prostate and colorectal cancers.
  • Anti-bacterial properties maintain oral health and prevent bad breath.

Dermatological Perks

  • Acts against inflammatory cells and aids in wound healing.
  • Curry leaf oil in creams may offer sun protection, skin lightening, and moisturization.
  • Effective against skin problems like boils, acne, pimples, itching, and ringworm.
  • Antioxidants and Vitamin C promote healthy skin, protecting it from tanning.
  • A face mask with curry leaves fights fine lines and retains skin glow.

Follicular Fortification

  • Curry leaf oil rejuvenates hair follicles, stimulates growth, and prevents hair fall.
  • Addition of essential oil during application nourishes hair and adds fragrance.
  • Rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, and Iron, curry leaves and coconut oil prevent hair loss, thinning, premature greying, and damage.
  • Curry leaves’ nutrients contribute to cellular regeneration, promoting hair growth and overall scalp health.
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