Health benefits of amchur or mango powder

Amchur, in simple words, is dried mango powder. Mangoes are only found during the summer months but people have discovered several ways in which mango can be consumed. Mangoes are generally stored and pickled. Some also like to powder it. Like we have just said, fresh mango powder is also known as amchur. Fresh powder is usually bright green in colour. Some of them can also be brownish.

How to make amchur?

Unripe mangoes are peeled off at first. After this they are freshly cut into several sizes. The slices are then dried under the sun till they are completely dry. Now it will be packed, manufactured and sent for market sales. Often dried mango slices are sold too. Sometimes the slices have been seasoned with turmeric powder. This helps in preparation and storage. Turmeric also prevents pest attacks and insects. Here’s why turmeric or haldi is good for you.

Uses of amchur

Amchur powder has several uses in the culinary world. It is used to add more flavour to curries, chutneys, soups and marinades. The dried slices add more taste to the dishes. Fish and chicken dishes are also enhanced with the help of amchur powder. It has tenderising qualities, similar to lime and lemon juice.

Health benefits

Boosts digestion

Amchur powder combats acidity and boosts the process of digestion. It fights constipation and flatulence and ensures timely bowel movement. It is best to consume amchur powder regularly to improve your digestive tract and overall health. (Read: 9 home remedies for better digestion)

Aids in weight loss

Amchur powder is great for weight loss too. It contains antioxidants that boost metabolism and help in losing weight fast. It is also low in carbohydrates, which makes it an excellent ingredient for weight loss programmes.

Improves vision

Amchur powder can also be used for improving your vision. Add amchur powder to your dishes, it helps increase clarity and prevent eye disorders and cataracts. (Read: Tomatoes – Natural remedy for good vision)

Prevents cancer

Amchur powder will also protect your body from life-threatening diseases like cancer. It contains Vitamin C in abundance. It treats scurvy effectively and helps you recover fast. Mix some gud with amchur powder and consume it daily. Make sure you are taking this, first thing in the morning.

Promotes healthy skin

Surprisingly, amchur powder can also improve the texture of your skin. It cleanses the pores, removes dirt, oil and pollution leaving your skin healthy, young and beautiful.

Protects heart
Amchur powder also takes care of your heart. It improves your cardiovascular health, fights heart attacks and prevents heart failures or other diseases related to your heart health. (Read: 6 natural remedies for a healthy heart)

A lot of benefits of amchur are listed, try and include amchur in your daily diet to reap these benefits.

Here’s a recipe: How to make amchur curry 

A unique mix of flavours is what makes Indian cuisine popular. A dish that uses Amchur powder tastes heavenly! You must try this at home.

Ingredients:

• Chana dal or besan (2 spoons)
• 200 ml of water
• Amchur powder
• Curry leaves
• Mustard leaves
• Salt

Steps:

1. Take two spoons of besan or chana dal and add it to a bowl.
2. Now add water and mix well. Add some amchur powder and salt for taste.
3. Now take your frying pan, add some oil and let it heat.
4. Add mustard leaves and curry leaves. Now pour the liquid.
5. Stir to avoid formation of any lumps. You can also add ginger paste if you like.
6. Serve with rice and dal.

Photo source: Getty images

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