Makhana is the seed of the lotus plant that is used in the preparation of sweets as well as savories. These seeds can be consumed raw or in cooked form. Makhana is also used for medicinal purposes.
Makhana has high nutritional value as it is a rich source of proteins, carbohydrates, fiber, potassium, iron, and zinc. It gives a feeling of fullness when taken as a snack and prevents overeating thereby helping in weight loss. Makhana is beneficial for overall skin health (wrinkles and signs of aging) due to the presence of antioxidants and certain amino acids that have anti-aging property.
According to Ayurveda, Makhana helps improve male sexual health as it increases sperm quality and quantity due to its aphrodisiac property. Eating Makhana might also help control diarrhea as its strong astringent property helps slow down the passage of stool through the digestive tract thereby reducing the frequency of passing stool.
What are the synonyms of Makhana?
Euryale ferox, Makhatram, Paniyphalam, Makhatrah, Kantpadma, Mellunipadmamu, Makhna, Jeweir, Makhane, Makhane, Sivsat, Thanging, Gorgon fruits, Prickly water lily, Makhana lawah, Mukhresh, Mukhareh, Fox nut
What is the source of Makhana?
Plant Based
BENEFITS OF MAKHANA
1. Male Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual Dysfunction in men can be in the form of loss of libido i.e., having no inclination towards a sexual act. There can also be a low erection time or semen expelled soon after a sexual activity. This is also referred to as ‘early discharge or premature ejaculation. Intake of Makhana helps in proper functioning of male sexual performance. This is because it increases the quality and quantity of semen. This is due to its Vajikarna (aphrodisiac) property.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 handful Makhana or as per your requirement.
b. Shallow fry the Makhana in 1/2-1 teaspoon of ghee.
c. Have it with milk or add to any food.
2. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is known as Atisar in Ayurveda. It is due to improper food, impure water, toxins, mental stress and Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). All these factors are responsible for aggravating Vata. This aggravated Vata brings fluid in the intestine from various tissues from the body and mixes with the stool. This leads to loose, watery motions or diarrhea. Eating Makhana may help your body absorb more nutrients and control your diarrhea. This is due to its Grahi (absorbent) property.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 handful Makhana or as per your requirement.
b. Shallow fry the Makhana in 1/2-1 teaspoon ghee.
c. Have it with light food.
3. Insomnia
Anidra (Insomnia) is associated with an aggravated Vata. Taking Makhana helps in insomnia due to its Vata balancing and Guru (heavy) nature.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 handful Makhana or as per your requirement.
b. Shallow fry the Makhana in 1/2-1 teaspoon ghee.
c. Have it with milk at night.
4. Osteoarthritis
According to Ayurveda, osteoarthritis occurs due to an aggravation of Vata dosha and is known as Sandhivata. It causes pain, swelling, and joint immobility. Makhana has Vata balancing property and gives relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis, like pain and swelling in the joints.
Tips:
a. Take 1-2 handful Makhana or as per your requirement.
b. Shallow fry the Makhana in 1/2-1 teaspoon ghee.
c. Have it with milk or add to any food.