Jaggery

Jaggery is a traditional non-centrifugal cane sugar consumed in East Africa, the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is a concentrated product of cane juice and often date or palm sap without separation of the molasses and crystals, and can vary from golden brown to dark brown in colour.

         

Benefits of jaggery, advantages of jaggery

Benefits of jaggery: 

Prevents premature ageing

In Ayurveda, premature ageing is treated using the goodness of jaggery, sesame seeds and essential herbs. The reason behind it is, jaggery is a rich source of antioxidants that fights free radicals and postpones the process of ageing. So, if you have started noticing fine lines, wrinkles or age spots on your skin, it is a good idea to swap jaggery in place of sugar in your diet. Even a small quantity, consumed regularly, will give you the desired results.


Reduces pimples

Those with oily and acne prone skin often get pimples out of nowhere. No matter which face wash or cream they use, it doesn't seem to help matters. We have discovered that one of the many benefits of jaggery includes reducing pimples. So, if you’ve tried everything else for your pimples and acne, try eating a lemon sized piece of jaggery every day to keep pimples at bay. This will also clear the complexion, remove spots and make your skin look flawless. The reason why this works is because jaggery is a rich source of glycolic acid that mildly exfoliates and heals acne.


Glowing skin

Glowing skin is always in, but environmental stressors like UV rays, pollution and dust rob our skin of its natural glow, making it look dull and lifeless. However, if you want that glow back, jaggery can be quite helpful. As mentioned earlier, it contains glycolic acid, which is an important ingredient added to many skincare products to improve the texture of the skin. Did you know you can reap the skin benefits of jaggery by applying it topically? Combine powdered jaggery with honey and lemon juice and apply the mix on the face and neck area. Wash after 5-10 minutes and pat dry.


Eases menstrual pain

Is period pain bringing you down every month? The benefits of eating jaggery can help ease this pain and allow you to go about your day as usual. Jaggery water works as a magic potion in easing abdominal pain and cramps associated with periods. Eating jaggery can also help with PMS, as it relaxes your body by releasing endorphins – the happy hormones. So, the next time you are about to get your period, start eating jaggery or drinking jaggery water to make that time of the month go smoother.


Helps in weight loss

Jaggery helps in the proper functioning of the digestive system and boosting immunity, which is essential while trying to lose weight. A rich source of potassium, it helps in balancing the electrolytes as well as improving metabolism. It also reduces water retention, thereby helping you manage and control your weight. Further, it contains high levels of vitamins and minerals that enhance its ability to induce weight loss. It also helps eliminate toxins from the body which accelerates the weight loss journey. Anyone trying to lose weight should try to include jaggery in their daily diet.


Treats cough and cold

In India, the benefits of jaggery were identified centuries ago and have been used since then to treat common ailments such as cough and cold. Those suffering from cough and sore throat often find relief after consuming jaggery. The reason is that it has a soothing effect on the soft tissues of the throat, thereby reducing the itchy sensation. Eating it in its raw form is considered to be the most beneficial, but you can also add it to your tea or mix in water and drink it to get relief from the problem.