CUCUMBER TREE OR BILIMBI FRUIT ! HEALTH BENEFITS AND USES OF BILIMBI FRUIT ! SWEET AND SOUR BILIMBI FRUIT CURRY RECIPE !

  WHAT IS BILIMBI FRUIT ? CUCUMBER TREE:

Bilimbi is a tropical fruit that belongs to the genus Averrhoa and the family Oxalidaceae. It is also known as cucumber tree, tree sorrel, or kamias in some regions. 

It is native to the Maluku Islands of Indonesia, but

has spread to other parts of Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Americas.

Bilimbi fruit looks like small cucumbers, with thin green skin and white crisp flesh. The fruit is very sour and acidic, and is usually eaten as a relish or cooked in dishes that need a tangy flavor. Bilimbi fruit is rich in vitamin C, calcium, iron, and antioxidants, and has various health benefits such as improving digestion, skin health, and immunity.

Bilimbi tree is a small tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It has pinnate leaves with many leaflets, and produces flowers on the trunk or branches. 

The flowers are purplish red and occur in pendulous clusters. The fruit is ellipsoidal and elongated, and turns from light green to yellowish green when ripe. Bilimbi fruit has various health benefits such as:

MANAGING DIABETES: 

Bilimbi fruit can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. It contains compounds that inhibit the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which breaks down carbohydrates into glucose. By reducing the absorption of glucose in the intestines, bilimbi fruit can prevent spikes in blood sugar levels after meals.

TREATING HYPERTENSION: Bilimbi fruit can help

lower blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular diseases. It contains potassium, which is a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. It also contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that protect the blood vessels from oxidative damage and inflammation.

REMEDYING HEMORRHOIDS: Bilimbi fruit can help treat hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the anus or rectum that cause pain and bleeding. It has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that can reduce swelling and bleeding. 

It also has laxative effects that can ease constipation, which is a common cause of hemorrhoids.

STRENGTHENING BONES: Bilimbi fruit can help strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis. It contains calcium, which is a mineral that is essential for bone formation and maintenance. It also contains vitamin C, which is a vitamin that helps synthesize collagen, which is a protein that provides structure and strength to bones and other connective tissues.

SOOTHING COUGH AND COLD: Bilimbi fruit can help soothe cough and cold symptoms, such as sore throat, congestion, and fever. It has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can fight against infections that cause respiratory illnesses. 

It also has expectorant effects that can loosen

mucus and phlegm in the lungs and throat. It also has vitamin C, which is a vitamin that boosts immunity and helps fight off infections.

Bilimbi fruit can be eaten raw or cooked in various ways. Some of the common uses of bilimbi fruit are:

PICKLING: Bilimbi fruit can be pickled in vinegar, salt, sugar, and spices to make a sour and crunchy condiment that can be eaten with rice, fish, meat, or vegetables. 

Pickled bilimbi fruit can last for several months in the refrigerator.

CHUTNEY: Bilimbi fruit can be cooked with sugar,

ginger, garlic, onion, chili, and spices to make a sweet and spicy sauce that can be served with bread, crackers, cheese, or meat. Chutney is a popular dish in Indian cuisine.

CURRY: Bilimbi fruit can be added to coconut milk, onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, curry powder, salt, and chicken or fish to make a creamy and tangy stew that can be eaten with rice or bread. Curry is a common dish in Southeast Asian cuisine.

JAM: Bilimbi fruit can be boiled with sugar, lemon juice, and pectin to make a thick and sweet spread that can be used on toast, pancakes, waffles, or cakes. Jam is a simple way to preserve bilimbi fruit for later use.

Bilimbi fruit is a sour but healthy fruit that has many 1benefits and uses.

 It can help manage diabetes, treat hypertension, remedy hemorrhoids, strengthen bones, and soothe cough and cold. It can also be eaten raw or cooked in various dishes such as pickles, chutneys, curries, and jams. Bilimbi fruit is a versatile and nutritious addition to any diet.

                      BILIMBI FRUIT CURRY:

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 cup oil

10-12 curry leaves

1 large onion, finely chopped

2-3 green chilies, cut in small pieces 

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp coriander powder

1/2 tsp chilli powder

250 grams bilimbi fruit, sliced

1 cup thick coconut milk

Salt to taste

                   HERE IS THE RECIPE:

Heat the oil in a pan and fry the curry leaves and

onion until the onion is soft and starts turning golden.

Add the chilies, turmeric, coriander and chilli powder and fry for 1 minute, then add the bilimbi and fry for 5 minutes.

Add coconut milk and salt. Simmer uncovered until the mixture is thick and oily.

Serve hot with rice or bread.

     IT'S CALLED HERBS TREAT AND TASTE :

BLACK CHICKPEA ? KALA CHANA IN URDU ! HEALTH BENEFITS AND USES OF BLACK CHICKPEA ! BLACK CHICKPEA CURRY RECIPE !

 WHAT IS BLACK CHICKPEA ? kALA CHANA:

 Black chickpeas are a type of chickpea that have a

dark brown or black color and a smaller size than the common cream-colored chickpeas. 

Black chickpeas are a rare kind of chickpea found in Pakistan, India and a tiny part of Italy. However, these countries actually grow different varieties.

They are also known as kala chana, desi chana in Pakistan or Bengal gram in India, where they are widely cultivated and consumed. Black chickpeas are rich in protein, fiber, iron, and antioxidants, and have a nutty flavor and firm texture.

Black chickpeas grow on an annual plant that belongs to the pea family. The plant has dark green, compound leaflets and small flowers that can be purple, white, pink, or blue. 

The seeds develop in oblong, swollen pods that are

about an inch long and contain one or two seeds each. The plant can grow up to 18 inches tall and prefers a cool and dry climate with full sun exposure. 

The plant is also drought-tolerant and can fix nitrogen in the soil, making it a beneficial crop for farmers.. They are rich in protein, fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. They are used to make various dishes in South Asian cuisine, such as dal, curry, idli, dosa, and vada.

  HEALTH BENEFITS OF BLACK CHICKPEAS :

Black chickpeas have many health benefits for your body and mind.

Black chickpeas are high in fiber, which helps in

keeping you full for longer and reducing your appetite. Fiber also helps in lowering cholesterol levels and preventing obesity-related diseases. Black chickpeas are low in calories and fat, which makes them a perfect snack for weight watchers.

Black chickpeas are low on the glycemic index, which means they do not cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels after consumption. 

They also contain resistant starch, which slows down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. This helps in regulating blood sugar levels and preventing diabetes.

Black chickpeas are a good source of zinc, which is essential for the functioning of the immune system. Zinc helps in fighting infections and inflammation, and also aids in wound healing. Black chickpeas also contain vitamin C, which enhances the production of white blood cells and antibodies.

Black chickpeas are rich in potassium, which helps in maintaining a healthy blood pressure and preventing hypertension.

 Potassium also balances the sodium levels in the body and reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack. Black chickpeas also contain folate, which lowers the levels of homocysteine, a harmful amino acid that can damage the blood vessels.

 Black chickpeas are a great source of iron, which is vital for the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin. 

Hemoglobin carries oxygen to the cells and tissues, which improves your energy levels and prevents anemia. Black chickpeas also contain copper, which helps in the absorption of iron.

              USES OF BLACK CHICKPEAS :

Black chickpeas are versatile and can be used to

make various dishes in South Asian cuisine.

 DAL is a thick soup or stew made from black chickpeas or other lentils.

 It is usually cooked with spices, herbs, onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and other ingredients. Dal can be eaten with rice, roti, naan, or bread as a main course or a side dish.

CIRRY is a dish made from black chickpeas or other vegetables cooked in a sauce of spices, coconut milk, yogurt, or water. 

Curry can be mild or spicy depending on your preference. Curry can be served with rice, roti, naan, or bread as a main course or a side dish.

 IDLI is a steamed cake made from fermented batter of black chickpeas and rice. It is soft, fluffy, and spongy in texture.

 Idli is usually served with sambar (a vegetable stew) and chutney (a spicy sauce) as a breakfast or snack.

 DOSA is a thin crepe or pancake made from fermented batter of black chickpeas and rice.

 It is crisp and golden on the outside and soft

 on the inside. Dosa can be stuffed with potatoes, cheese, vegetables, or meat as a filling. Dosa is usually served with sambar and chutney as a breakfast or snack.

VADA is a deep-fried fritter made from soaked and

ground black chickpeas. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Vada can be flavored with spices, herbs, curry leaves, onion, green chilies, or coconut. Vada is usually served with sambar and chutney as a breakfast or snack.

              BLACK CHICKPEA CURRY:

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup black chickpeas, soaked overnight and

drained

2 tablespoons oil

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 onion, finely chopped

2 teaspoons ginger garlic paste

2 green chilies, cut in small pieces 

1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

1/2 teaspoon salt or according to your taste 

1/4 teaspoon red chili powder

2 teaspoons coriander powder

1/4 teaspoon garam masala

2 tomatoes, pureed

2 cups water

2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

                  HERE IS THE RECIPE:

Heat oil in a pressure cooker and add cumin seeds. When they crackle, add onion and sauté until golden brown.

Add ginger garlic paste and green chilies and sauté for a few seconds.

Add turmeric, salt, red chili, coriander and garam masala and mix well.

Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates.

Add black chickpeas and water and mix well. Close the lid and pressure cook for 15 minutes or until the chickpeas are soft.

Garnish with cilantro or coriander with Ginger and serve hot with rice or roti.

    IT'S CALLED HERBS TREAT AND TASTE:

TOBACCO ! USES AND HARMFUL EFFECTS OF TOBACCO ! TOBACCO AND ONIONS CRISPY RECIPE !

 WHAT IS THE TOBACCO PLANT ?

The tobacco plant is a member of the genus

Nicotiana, which belongs to the nightshade family Solanaceae. There are more than 70 species of tobacco, but the most widely cultivated and used one is Nicotiana tabacum. The tobacco plant has sticky hairy stems and leaves, and produces white, pink, or red flowers that have a tubular corolla and a five-lobed crown. 

The plant grows in tropical and subtropical regions, and its leaves are harvested and cured to make various tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, snuff, and chewing tobacco. Tobacco contains nicotine, a psychoactive alkaloid that can have both stimulating and relaxing effects on the nervous system. However, tobacco also contains many harmful chemicals that can cause addiction, cancer, and other diseases.

Tobacco is a plant that has been used for centuries for various purposes, such as smoking, chewing, snuffing, and making pesticides. However, tobacco also has many harmful effects on health, such as causing cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems. 

                    USES OF TOBACCO :

Pesticide production: Tobacco can be used to make natural pesticides that can repel or kill insects,

worms, and other pests. For example, a solution of water and tobacco can be sprayed on plants to deter aphids, leaf rollers, garden centipedes, and other harmful insects .

Tobacco can also be used to repel insects from humans and animals. For example, tobacco leaves can be rubbed on the skin to ward off mosquitoes, flies, and ticks. Tobacco smoke can also be used to drive away bees, wasps, and hornets.

Tobacco has some medicinal properties that can be used to treat various ailments. For example, tobacco leaves can be applied as a poultice to reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling. Tobacco juice can be used as an antiseptic for wounds and infections. Tobacco can also be used to stimulate labor, treat asthma, and remove warts.

Tobacco leaves can be used to make various artistic and decorative items. For example, tobacco leaves can be woven into baskets, mats, hats, and other accessories. Tobacco leaves can also be dyed and used to make paper, cards, and paintings.

The effects of the tobacco plant are controversial

and not well supported by scientific evidence. Tobacco is a plant that contains nicotine, a psychoactive substance that can have both stimulating and relaxing effects on the nervous system. However, tobacco also contains many harmful chemicals that can cause addiction, cancer, and other diseases. Therefore, the use of tobacco should be done with caution and moderation.

Some sources claim that tobacco has various health benefits, such as relieving stress, treating respiratory problems, preventing cancer, and reducing the risk of preeclampsia and allergic asthma. However, these claims are not supported by scientific evidence and may be outweighed by the harmful effects of tobacco on health.

         HARMFUL EFFECTS OF TOBACCO :

Tobacco use increases the risk of many types of cancer, such as lung, mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, kidney, bladder, cervix and blood . Tobacco contains more than 7000 chemicals of which at least 70 are known to cause cancer . 

Smoking causes about 90% of all lung cancer deaths and about 80% of all deaths from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Tobacco use can damage the blood vessels and the heart leading to increased risk of heart disease

stroke and peripheral vascular disease . Smoking can cause blood clots which can block the blood flow to the heart or brain and cause a heart attack or stroke. 

Smoking can also make the blood vessels narrower and harder which can raise the blood pressure and lower the oxygen supply to the body.

Tobacco use can harm the lungs and the airways causing chronic bronchitis emphysema asthma and other lung diseases . Smoking can impair the normal functioning of the lungs making it harder to breathe and increasing the risk of infections and inflammation. 

Smoking can also worsen existing respiratory conditions and trigger asthma attacks.

 Tobacco use can affect many other aspects of

health such as increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes cataracts osteoporosis rheumatoid arthritis tuberculosis eye diseases immune system problems and pregnancy complications . Smoking can also reduce fertility sexual function and bone density. 

Smoking can also affect the appearance of the skin teeth and hair.

The tobacco plant is a plant that has been used for centuries for various purposes, such as smoking, chewing, snuffing, and making pesticides. However, tobacco also has many harmful effects on health, such as causing cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems. Therefore, the use of tobacco should be done with caution and moderation. 

       TOBACCO ONIONS CRISPY RECIPE :

Tobacco onions are crispy and spicy onion slices

that are deep-fried until golden and crunchy. They are a delicious side dish that goes well with burgers, steaks, salads, and more. 

INGREDIENTS :

1 large onion, peeled and thinly sliced

500 ml of buttermilk

120 grams flour

45 ml sugar

15 ml chili powder

15 ml garlic powder

15 ml onion powder

15 ml instant coffee granules

15 ml ground cumin

15 ml ground coriander

15 ml salt or according to your taste 

Vegetable oil for frying

                   HERE IS THE RECIPE:

Soak the onion slices in the buttermilk for at least 30 to 40 minutes.

Drain the onions and discard the buttermilk.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, coffee granules, cumin, coriander, and salt. 

Mix well.

Heat the oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 190°C/375°F using a kitchen thermometer.

Coat the onion slices with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Fry the onion slices in batches until they are golden and crispy, about 3 to 5 minutes per batch.

Transfer the fried onions to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and crisp up.

     IT'S CALLED HERBS TREAT AND TASTE :

WHAT IS WAKAME ? SEA VEGETABLE OR SEAWEED ! HEALTH BENEFITS, USES OF WAKAME ! WAKAME AND CUCUMBER SALAD RECIPE !

 WHAT IS WAKAME ? SEA MUSTARD :

Wakame is a type of edible seaweed that has been

cultivated in Japan and Korea for centuries. It is also known as “sea mustard” because of its resemblance to mustard greens when cooked. Wakame has a deep green color, a mild flavor, and a crunchy texture.

 It is widely used in Asian cuisines, especially in soups, salads, and snacks, but also as a seasoning.

Wakame is low in calories but high in several nutrients that are essential for health. It is a good source of iodine, manganese, folate, magnesium, calcium, vitamins A, C, E and K, iron, copper and phosphorus. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.

             HEALTH BENEFITS OF WAKAME :

Wakame is rich in iodine, which is an essential mineral for the production of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones regulate growth, metabolism, protein synthesis and cell repair. Iodine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism, a condition that can lead to weight gain, fatigue, hair loss and dry skin.

Wakame contains substances that can help lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and inhibiting the enzyme that constricts them. High blood pressure can increase the strain on the heart and damage the blood vessels, leading to heart disease. 

Wakame also contains antioxidants that can protect the blood vessels from oxidative stress and inflammation.

 Wakame can help promote weight loss by

increasing the feeling of fullness and reducing the absorption of fat and sugar in the intestines. Wakame also contains fucoxanthin, a pigment that can boost the metabolism and prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver.

 Wakame can help improve skin health by providing hydration, nourishment and protection. Wakame contains vitamins A, C and E that can help maintain skin elasticity, collagen production and wound healing. 

Wakame also contains antioxidants that can prevent skin damage from UV rays and environmental pollutants.

Wakame can help boost immunity by stimulating the production of white blood cells and antibodies that fight against infections and diseases. Wakame also contains polysaccharides that can modulate the immune system and enhance its response to foreign invaders.

Wakame can be found in dried or salted forms in most Asian markets or online stores. Dried wakame needs to be soaked in warm water for a few minutes before using it. 

Salted wakame needs to be rinsed well to remove excess salt. Wakame can be added to soups, salads, stir-fries, sushi rolls or onigiri. It can also be chopped, seasoned and served as a salad on its own or with other ingredients.

Some of the common dishes that use wakame are:

    MISO SOUP :

A traditional Japanese soup made with dash (a

broth of seaweed and fish), miso (a fermented soybean paste), tofu and scallions. Wakame is often added as a garnish to provide extra flavor and texture.

   SEAWEED SALAD :

A refreshing salad made with rehydrated or blanched wakame, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar and sesame seeds. It can be served cold or at room temperature.

   GOMA WAKAME :

 A popular Japanese snack made with chopped wakame mixed with sesame seeds, sugar and vinegar. It has a sweet and sour taste and a crunchy texture.

    HIJIKI NO NIMONO :

 

A Japanese side dish made with hijiki (another type of seaweed), carrots, soybeans, sugar, soy sauce and mirin (a sweet rice wine). Wakame can be added to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

Wakame is generally safe to consume for most people. However, some precautions should be taken:

 Wakame contains high amounts of iodine, which

can be beneficial for thyroid health but harmful if consumed in excess. Too much iodine can cause hyperthyroidism, a condition that can lead to anxiety, insomnia, palpitations and weight loss. 

The recommended daily intake of iodine for adults is 150 mcg per day. One gram of dried wakame contains about 42 mcg of iodine, so it is advisable to limit the intake of wakame to no more than 3 grams per day.

Some people may be allergic to wakame or other seaweeds. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, swelling, hives, rash, difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis. 

If you have a history of seafood or iodine allergy, consult your doctor before eating wakame.

Wakame may be contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides or radioactive substances that can pose health risks.

 It is important to buy wakame from reputable

sources and check the labels for any warnings or certifications. You can also soak wakame in water for a few hours and discard the water to reduce the potential contaminants.

Wakame is a nutritious and delicious sea vegetable that can offer many health benefits. It can be used in various dishes to add flavor, texture and color. 

Wakame is low in calories but high in several nutrients, especially iodine. However, it should be consumed in moderation and with caution to avoid any adverse effects. Wakame is a great way to enjoy the bounty of the sea and the benefits of seaweed.

    WAKAME AND CUCUMBER SALAD RECIPE :

This is a refreshing and crunchy salad that uses

dried wakame seaweed, rice vinegar, lime juice, miso paste, ginger, honey, vegetable oil, sesame oil, salt, cucumber, and scallions. 

      HERE IS THE RECIPE :

Soak the dried wakame seaweed in warm water for about 15 minutes, or until it is soft and plump. Drain well and squeeze out the excess water. Cut into bite-sized pieces if needed.

In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, lime juice, miso paste, ginger, honey, vegetable oil, sesame oil, and salt until well combined. This is the dressing for the salad.

Cut the cucumber into thin slices and chop the scallions. In a large bowl, toss the cucumber, scallions, and wakame seaweed with the dressing until well coated.

Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld. Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving.

Enjoy your wakame and cucumber salad! 

IT'S CALLED HERBS TREAT AND TASTE:

DRIED PLUMS, PRUNES ! HEALTH BENEFITS, USES AND SIDE EFFECTS OF DRIED PLUMS : DRIED PLUMS JUICE RECIPE :

 WHAT IS DRIED PLUMS? KHUSHAK ALOO   BUKHARA IN URDU :

Dried plums, also known as prunes, are plums that

have been dehydrated in an oven or in the sun. They are widely consumed as a snack or added to dishes such as salads, oatmeal, yogurt, and baked goods. Dried plums have a sweet and chewy texture and a rich flavor. But they are not only delicious, they are also nutritious and beneficial for your health.

Plums are a type of fruit that grow on trees in the genus Prunus. They are closely related to peaches, cherries, and almonds. 

Plums grow in different parts of the world, including China, Pakistan, India, Serbia, the United States, Turkey, Iran, Spain, and Italy. 

They require cooler temperatures to grow and

thrive. In the United States, plum trees grow best in USDA hardiness zone 3-8, with the American hybrid, Japanese, and European varieties all suited to different regions. Most plum production in the US occurs in Tulare and Fresno counties within the San Joaquin Valley in California.

     HOW TO MAKE DRIED PLUMS AT HOME :

There are several methods for making dried plums at home, such as using an oven, a food dehydrator, or the sun.

                         OVEN METHOD :

Cut the plums in half and remove the pits. Arrange them on an oven rack with some space between them. Put a foil-lined baking tray underneath to catch the juice. Set the oven to the lowest temperature possible (175° – 200° Fahrenheit or lower) and dry the plums for about eight hours, flipping them occasionally. Check for your desired level of dryness and take them out when ready.

                             SUN METHOD :

 Wash the plums and cut them in half, removing the

pits and stems. Boil them in water for a few minutes to soften the skin and prevent browning. Drain them and arrange them on a baking sheet or a drying rack, skin side down. Cover them with a cheesecloth or a net to protect them from insects and dust. 

Place them in a sunny spot with good air circulation and dry them for several days, turning them once a day. Bring them indoors at night to prevent moisture from condensing on them. Check for doneness and store in an airtight container.

         HEALTH BENEFITS OF DRIED PLUMS :

Dried plums are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber that can provide various health benefits. Here are some of the most notable ones:

 Dried plums are well known for their laxative effect, which can help ease constipation and promote regular bowel movements. This is partly due to the high amount of fiber in dried plums, which adds bulk to the stool and stimulates the intestinal muscles.

 Additionally, dried plums contain sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that draws water into the colon and softens the stool.  Studies have shown that eating dried plums can improve stool consistency and frequency better than other types of laxatives.

 Dried plums may help prevent bone loss and improve bone density, especially in postmenopausal women who are at risk of osteoporosis. This is because dried plums contain phytochemicals that can modulate bone metabolism and inhibit bone resorption, which is the process of breaking down bone tissue. 

One study found that eating 100 grams of dried

plums per day for one year increased bone mineral density in the spine and forearm of postmenopausal women compared to a control group.

Dried plums may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels, which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This is because dried plums contain pectin, a type of soluble fiber that can bind to bile acids and reduce their absorption in the intestine.

 Bile acids are made from cholesterol in the liver and help digest fats. By lowering bile acid levels, dried plums may stimulate the liver to use more cholesterol from the blood to make new bile acids, thus lowering blood cholesterol levels. Moreover, dried plums contain potassium, a mineral that can help regulate blood pressure by balancing sodium levels in the body.

Dried plums are rich in antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds and vitamin C, that can protect the cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Oxidative stress and inflammation are associated with many chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and arthritis. 

Dried plums may also have anti-inflammatory effects on the joints by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes that cause pain and swelling.

                      DRIED PLUMS USES :

Dried plums can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some of the common uses of dried plums:

 Dried plums make a great snack on their own or

mixed with nuts, seeds, or other dried fruits. They can satisfy your sweet tooth while providing you with fiber and nutrients.

Dried plums can add flavor and texture to your breakfast cereals, oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies. They can also help you feel fuller for longer and prevent blood sugar spikes.

Dried plums can be used to enhance the taste and nutrition of various dishes, such as salads, soups, stews, sauces, casseroles, pies, cakes, breads, muffins, cookies, and more. They can also be rehydrated by soaking them in water or juice before cooking.

           SIDE EFFECTS OF DRIED PLUMS :

Dried plums are generally safe to consume for most people when eaten in moderation. However, some people may experience some side effects from eating too many dried plums or being allergic to them. Here are some of the possible side effects of dried plums:

Eating too many dried plums may cause diarrhea due to their high fiber and sorbitol content. Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that can have a laxative effect when consumed in large amounts. 

It can also cause gas, bloating, and abdominal pain. To avoid this, limit your intake of dried plums to no more than 100 grams per day and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

Allergic reaction: Some people may be allergic to

dried plums or other fruits in the same family, such as peaches, apricots, cherries, and almonds. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, swelling, hives, rash, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis. 

If you have a known allergy to these fruits, avoid eating dried plums or consult your doctor before trying them.

Dried plums may interact with some medications that affect blood clotting, such as warfarin, aspirin, and ibuprofen. This is because dried plums contain vitamin K, which is involved in the blood clotting process.

 Eating too many dried plums may increase the risk of bleeding or bruising in people who take these medications. If you are on blood thinners, talk to your doctor before eating dried plums or monitor your blood levels regularly.

Dried plums are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can offer many health benefits, such as relieving constipation, supporting bone health, lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, and protecting against oxidative stress and inflammation. 

They can also be used in various ways to add flavor and texture to your meals and snacks. However, dried plums may also have some side effects, such as diarrhea, allergic reaction, and drug interactions, if eaten in excess or by people who are sensitive to them. 

Therefore, it is advisable to eat dried plums in moderation and consult your doctor if you have any medical conditions or allergies.

                      DRIED PLUMS JUICE :

INGREDIENTS :

1 cup of dried plums

4 cups of water

2 tablespoons of honey or sugar (optional)

1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)

                  HERE IS THE RECIPE :

Rinse the dried plums and soak them in water for

about an hour or until they are soft and plump.

Transfer the dried plums and the soaking water to a blender and blend until smooth. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your blender.

Strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or a cheesecloth into a large pitcher. Discard the pulp or save it for another use.

Stir in the honey or sugar and the cinnamon if using. Adjust the sweetness and flavor to your liking.

Refrigerate the juice until chilled or serve over ice. Enjoy your refreshing and nutritious dried plums juice!

       IT'S CALLED HERBS TREAT AND TASTE :