The curry tree or Bergera koenigii, is a tropical and sub-tropical tree in the family Rutaceae, native to Asia. The plant is also sometimes called sweet neem, though M. koenigii is in a different family from neem, Azadirachta indica, which is in the related family Meliaceae
Curry leaves (kadi patta) have many uses, including culinary, medicinal, and other:
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CulinaryCurry leaves are a common ingredient in Indian cuisine, often used to make tadka, an aromatic base of curry leaves, mustard seeds, cumin, and other spices. Tadka can be cooked with other ingredients or poured over a dish.
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MedicinalCurry leaves are rich in bioactive compounds like alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential oils, and have many potential health benefits:
- Antioxidants: May help prevent illness
- Blood sugar: May help regulate blood sugar levels and protect against diabetes symptoms
- Heart health: May reduce risk factors for heart disease
- Digestion: May aid in healthy digestion
- Anti-inflammatory: May have anti-inflammatory effects
- Antibacterial: May have antibacterial properties
- Pain relief: May have pain-relieving properties
- Other: May also help with neuroprotection, osteoporosis, anemia, and more
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OtherCurry leaves may also have applications in dental care, weight management, hair care, wound healing, skincare, and aromatherapy
