“Horse gram (Kollu) for the fat ones and Sesame (ellu) for the lean ones” is an old saying that we have heard many times. But, it has a deep meaning. Horse gram (Kollu) is well known for dissolving fat. However, it should not be taken lightly as a mere fat-reducing diet. The doctors say that, it also has a lot of medicinal benefits. This is a healthy food that can be eaten in various ways. South Indians and Sri Lankan Tamils prepares Rasam (broth), soup, chutney and curry with it, and it’s so delicious with all the added spices. It could be taken as juice by grinding the soaked horse gram. The roasted powder could be added into salads, salad dressings, milk or in hot water and consumed. Even the Kollu soaked water numerous medicinal benefits.
Kollu is widely used in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine. It is rich in vitamins, protein and iron. Knowing its greatness, our ancestors fed it to the hard-working horse. This is a special diet for the horse. That is why the horse has a lean body without fat and Runs fast. This is why it is also called 'horse gram'. Horse gram contains fantastic medicinal values which is suitable for everyone from children to adults.
Few out of numerous health benefits of horse gram are;
Full of protein
It belongs to the high-protein cereal variety. The protein in it helps in the growth of our body, the proper functioning of the tissues and the repair of damaged tissues.
Lose weight
Adding this to your diet often will help you lose weight. Take a handful at night on the first day and soak it in water and eat it on an empty stomach in the morning to lose weight quickly. Decreases unwanted fat in the body.
Cures Cold, fever & respiratory
Drinking the boiled horse gram water will cure common cold. Body aches, diarrhea and fever. Respiratory problems such as asthma and breathing issues can be cured by having it as a broth (rasam)
Increases immunity
It is also rich in nutrients needed to boost the body's immune system. This will help the body organs to gain strength. It protects against disease and strengthens bone & nerve. It can be distilled with rice and eaten as porridge. Kollu will reduce the appetite and makes the body strong.
Dissolves Kidney Stones
If it is eaten along with daily meals, it will dissolve and excrete small sized kidney stones. A recent study found that "calcium oxalate" in particular helps dissolve kidney stones. If a little bit of horse gram and rock salt boiled with a liter of water and eaten, the stones that accumulate in the internal organs like kidneys and urinary tract will be dissolved.
Sperm increase
It contains calcium, phosphorus, iron and amino acids. These increase the sperm count in men and help to eliminate infertility.
Prevent Diabetes
The glycemic index is a measure of the quantity of sugar in the food we eat. As this measurement increases, the level of glucose in the blood increases. However, Horse gram belongs to the anti-hyperglycemic diet. Therefore, it is also good for diabetics.
Helps to cure mensural related problems
It reduces the white discharge and regulates the menstrual issues.
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