Finger Millet, also known as ragi, is a significant millet extensively grown in India and Africa.
It ranks sixth in production in India, following wheat, rice, maize, sorghum, and bajra. In India, ragi is predominantly grown and consumed in Karnataka, and to a limited extent in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, and Goa.
Ragi is used as a therapeutic medicine, rich in nutrition and utilized as a healthy food for babies.
It has different names in local languages. In India, finger millet is commonly called as ragi (in Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi), mandua/mangal in Hindi, kodra (in Himachal Pradesh), mandia (in Oriya), taidalu (in Telangana region), and kezhvaragu in Tamil.
Habitat
Eleusine coracana, is an annual herbaceous plant widely grown as a cereal crop in arid and semi-arid areas in Africa and Asia. It is a tetraploid and self-pollinating species that probably evolved from its wild relative Eleusine africana.
Native to the Ethiopian and Ugandan highlands, finger millet’s unique characteristics include the ability to withstand cultivation at altitudes over 2,000 metres (6,600 ft) above sea level, high drought tolerance, and long shelf life.
Phytochemistry
Phytochemical screening of the extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, and tanninsin ragi.
Nutritional Prowess
Finger millet is an excellent source of natural calcium, strengthening bones for growing children and aging people, and is good for bone health, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Phytates, polyphenols and tannins contribute to antioxidant activity, essential for health, aging, and metabolic diseases.
Finger millet’s phytochemicals aid in controlling blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for diabetics. It has higher fiber content than rice and wheat, with a lower glycaemic response.
Due to its high nutritional content, ragi flour is recommended as a weaning food in South India.
Rich in natural iron, finger millet aids in the recovery of anaemia. Ragi-based foods are suitable for expectant mothers and the elderly due to their high calcium and iron content.
Consumption of finger millet relaxes the body and is beneficial for anxiety, depression, insomnia and migraines.
Green ragi is recommended for blood pressure, liver disorders, asthma, and heart weakness. It is also advised to lactating mothers with a lack of milk production.
Regular consumption helps prevent malnutrition, degenerative diseases, and premature aging. However, high intake may increase oxalic acid in the body, making it unsuitable for patients with kidney stones. Finger millet can be enjoyed in various forms, including ragi roti, ragi dosa, ragi porridge, ragi upma, ragi cakes, and ragi biscuits.
Dermatological Perks
Finger millet rejuvenates skin cells, making it look fresh and healthy, containing Vitamin E for skin health and wound healing.
Rich in calcium and Vitamin E, finger millet contributes to new and healthy skin, aiding in scar healing. Vitamin E prevents skin damage and moisturizes, creating a protective layer for healthy and shiny skin.
Essential amino acids like Methionine and Lysine protect the skin from rashes, wrinkles, and dullness.
Antioxidants in finger millet fight stress and reverse signs of aging, providing a natural and healthy appearance.
Applying ragi flour paste with milk on the face helps to eliminate wrinkles. Collagen and antioxidants prevent aging signs.
Applying ragi herbal mask with milk, honey, or other natural infusions is a perfect remedy for skin-tightening, defence, and rejuvenation, addressing suntan, UV ray damage, and irregular skin complexion.
Follicular Fortification
Rich in proteins, it helps prevent hair loss, making it highly recommended for those experiencing hair loss. The protein content strengthens hair and reduces hair fall.
Amino acids, carotenoids, and anti-microbial characteristics in finger millet make it an ideal solution for hair fall, balding, and dandruff.