Amazing health benefits of drumsticks

Drumsticks are obtained from the Moringa oleifera plant and are well-known for their myriad therapeutic qualities. Called as shajan in Hindi, this green vegetable is loaded with valuable minerals, healthy proteins and essential minerals. A must-have ingredient in sambar, one can harness the health benefits of drumstick by cooking it with other vegetables, lentils (dals) or as a juice or soup. Here are the top eight reasons why you should include drumsticks in your diet.

It builds strong bones

Drumsticks contain high amounts of calcium, iron and vitamins that help in strengthening bones. When consumed either in the form of a juice or with milk on a regular basis, it is found to raise the bone density and enhance bone health in kids.

It purifies blood

The leaves and pods of this green vegetable possess blood purifying properties and it also acts as a potent antibiotic agent. The regular consumption of drumsticks, either in the form of soups or juices, reduces acne and other related skin problems.

It lowers blood sugar levels

Drumstick leaves significantly reduce the blood glucose levels in the body and help in controlling diabetes. It is also found to enhance gall bladder function, which in turn helps to lower sugar levels, helping you live a healthier life. Read about 10 ways to control diabetes naturally.

It eases respiratory problems

In case you suffer from a sore throat, a cough or congestion, drink a cup of drumstick soup as its anti-inflammatory properties help in relieving a wide range of respiratory complications. It acts as an effective natural remedy to fight against lung diseases such as asthma, bronchitis and tuberculosis.

It is good for pregnant women

It is recommended that women should eat drumsticks during pregnancy as it helps in delivery and also eases pre and post-delivery complications. The presence of essential vitamins and minerals in this vegetable reduces the sluggishness of the uterus along with boosting the milk production after delivery.

It protects against infections

The leaves and flowers of drumstick contain antibacterial agents that help in preventing a wide range of infections related to the throat and skin. It also contains high levels of vitamin C which boosts the immune activity and helps in eliminating the harmful free radicals from the body.

It helps in digestion

Drumstick leaves and pods are loaded with B complex vitamins (such as niacin, riboflavin, folic acid and pyridoxine), which are said to play a vital role in digestion. These vitamins regulate the digestive process by helping the breakdown of complex carbohydrates, proteins and fats into their simpler forms. Read more about how wrong food combinations can lead to indigestion and gas.

It enhances sexual health

The presence of good amounts of zinc in drumsticks is found to enhance the process of spermatogenesis along with playing a key role in female sterility. The bark of this plant is found to contain certain compounds that help in curing impotency, premature ejaculation and thinness of semen.

Nutritional Values of Drumstick 

Amount of Drumsticks: 100 grams

Nutrients	Pods	Leaves
Basic Components
Protein	2.5 g	6.7 g
Carbohydrates	3.7 g	13.4 g
Water	86.9%	75.0%
Calorie	26	92
Fiber	4.8 g	0.9 g
Fat	0.1 g	1.7 g
Vitamins
Vitamin A	0.11 mg	6.8 mg
Vitamin B  (choline)	423 mg	423 mg
Vitamin B1 (thiamin)	0.05 mg	0.21 mg
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)	0.07 mg	0.05 mg
Vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid)	0.2 mg	0.8 mg
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)	120 mg	220 mg
Minerals
Calcium	30 mg	440 mg
Magnesium	24 mg	24 mg
Phosphorus	259 mg	259 mg
Potassium	110 mg	70 mg
Copper	3.1 mg	1.1 mg
Iron	5.3 mg	7 mg
Sulphur	137 mg	137 mg
Amino Acids
Arginine  (g/16g N)	3.6	6.0
Histidine	1.1	2.1
Isoleucine	4.4	6.3
Leucine	6.5	9.3
Lysine	1.5	4.3
Methionine	1.4	2.0
Phenylalanine	4.3	6.4
Threonine	3.9	4.9
Tryptophan	0.8	1.9
Valine	5.4	7.1