The art of cooking is old, and it has been practiced from primitive man to modern man. One requires the knowledge of application and technical manipulative skills. Everyone can indeed cook, but you may notice the same dish you make at home might not taste the same in restaurants or if someone else makes it.

This happens because the excessive use of spices can change or ruin the dish. It is essential to have complete knowledge of your herbs and spices and their combination in the dishes. The art of Indian Cookery lies not only in high spicing but also in the delicacy of spicing. Let’s understand that one of the most versatile culinary herbs, curry leaves are packed with an abundance of health benefits.

The Fresh Curry Leaves are a necessary part of Indian Cuisine and are used as traditional medicine. It is also known as Murraya koenigii, are a staple Spice in Indian cuisine and conventional medicine.

These small, green leaves pack a punch with their unique flavour and numerous health benefits. Let’s dive into the world of curry leaves and explore their benefits, uses, and how to incorporate them into your daily routine.

What Are Curry Leaves?

Curry leaves are the foliage of the curry tree, also known as ‘Sweet Neem or Kadi Patta, ‘ and are native to India and Sri Lanka. They are highly aromatic with a distinct flavor that adds depth to various dishes like curries, dals, and soups. Not to be confused with curry powder, these leaves are a culinary and medicinal treasure.

Benefits of Curry Leaves (Kadi Patta) 

Curry leaves are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (A, B, C, and E), and minerals. Here are some of their impressive benefits:

1. Antioxidant Properties: Curry leaves are packed with antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and free radicals.
2. Heart Health: They may help reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, thus lowering the risk of heart disease.
3. Diabetes Management: It can aid in controlling blood sugar levels.
4. Digestive Health: They improve digestion and can help alleviate issues like diarrhea and constipation.
5. Hair and Skin Health: It promote hair growth, reduce hair fall, and improve skin health.

Read More: 12 Must-Have Culinary Summer Plants for Every Indian Home

How Many Curry Leaves to Eat Per Day?

For optimal health benefits, it is recommended to consume 5-10 curry leaves daily. You can chew them raw, add them to your tea, or include them in your meals.

How to Use Curry Leaves for Hair Growth

They are a boon for hair health. Here’s how you can use them:

1. Curry Leaves Oil: Heat a cup of coconut oil and add a handful of curry leaves. Let the leaves turn black, then cool and strain the oil. Massage this oil onto your scalp and hair, leave it overnight, and wash it off the next morning.
2. Hair Mask: Blend fresh it into a paste and apply it to your scalp. Leave it on for an hour before washing it off with a mild shampoo.

How to Store/Preserve Curry Leaves (Kadi Patta)

To keep leaves fresh and aromatic, you can:

1. Refrigeration: Wrap the leaves in a paper towel and store them in an airtight container or zip lock bag in the fridge. This method keeps them fresh for up to a week.
2. Freezing: Freeze the leaves by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
3. Drying: Spread the leaves on a tray and let them dry in a cool, shaded area for 2-3 days. Store the dried leaves in an airtight container.

Curry Leaves Medicinal Uses

Curry leaves have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. They are known to:

– Support Immune Health: Their antioxidant properties help boost the immune system.

– Aid in Weight Loss: It can help detoxify the body and aid in weight management.

– Treat Infections: They have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat infections.

Including curry leaves into your daily routine can offer numerous health benefits. Whether you use them in your cooking, as a hair treatment, or for their medicinal properties, these leaves are a versatile and valuable addition to your lifestyle. Nowadays, children may not like the taste of curry leaves and often leave them aside on their plates.

As a smart mom, you can create recipes that incorporate curry leaves in a way that makes them more palatable for your kids, whether by crushing or mincing them into dishes so they won’t notice while eating. If you want to learn modern cooking techniques, take courses at NFCI Institute. NFCI makes learning easy and practical, so you’re ready to rock your kitchen. Explore our courses ranging from 3 months to 1 year.