The sprouts that grow out of mature bamboo plants of edible bamboo species are very popular in many Asian and Chinese cuisines. They are crispy and fibrous with a mild flavor. The taste is almost neutral when cooked. They are one of the most delicious and popular foods in Asia. But wait, what about the nutritional content of the shoots? What benefits does consuming the shoots provide the body with? Read on to know the answers.
Health Benefits Of Bamboos Shoots
Weight Loss
Bamboo shoots are low in calories, almost fat free. The sugar in the shoots is shockingly less than those found in many vegetables. It has high water content and fiber. Hence, it is an excellent weight loss food.
Reduces Cholesterol
Research has proved that bamboo shoot consumption has a positive effect on the cholesterol levels. First, it contains very small amounts of cholesterol. Two, it is a great source of dietary fiber. The effect of dietary fiber on lipid profile is well known. Thus, the shoots are beneficial for lowering bad cholesterol and prevent diseases linked with high cholesterol levels.
Respiratory Problems
Bamboo shoots have been used in folk medicine to treat common respiratory conditions like cold. Take some shoots and wash them well. Boil them for 5 minutes and let it cool down. Then boil the same shoots for another 10 minutes. Once the concoction cools down, strain and drink it sweetened with a spoon of honey. This will clear phlegm and ease symptoms of cold.
Antidote
In Ayurveda, the extracts of bamboo shoot have been used to treat snake bites, scorpion bites and poisonous insect bites. It is said that the extracts of the shoots have the power to break down any poison in the body.
Uterine Contractions
Bamboos shoots are very popular in Chinese medicine. It is given to pregnant women during the last months of pregnancy as it is supposed to cause uterine contraction. It would ease child birth, aid with proper expulsion of placenta and reduce blood loss. It has been listed as a uterine tonic in ancient literature.
Gastrointestinal Health
Bamboo shoots are packed with fiber, which promotes bowel movements and keeps the colon clean and healthy. Apart from this, the shoots improve appetite and assimilation of nutrients in the gut. It promotes the process of digestion and eliminates constipation.
Stomach Disorders
In folk medicine, the shoots have been used to expel intestinal worms. It is also used to treat stomach disorders.
Cardiovascular Health
As mentioned above, bamboo shoots lower LDL level in the body and help prevent the deposition of fat in the arterial walls. Besides, bamboo shoots contain good amount of potassium, which is a vasodilator. It improves the functions of the heart and enables smooth circulation of blood through the blood vessels. Thus, it helps regulate blood pressure and keeps cardiovascular problems at bay.
Fights Cancer
Research on bamboo shoots has showed that the leaves of this plant consist of phytosterols like amylase, chlorophyll and flavones. Among these compounds, chlorophyll has the property to control cancer mutations.
Strengthens Our Immune System
The minerals and vitamins found in the shoots are useful for improving the immune system and strengthen our body inside out.
Heals Wounds
The analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties found in bamboo shoots help in curing external wounds as well as ulcers.
Lowers Blood Pressure
Potassium is present in high amount s in bamboo shoots. This mineral is useful as an electrolyte. It also lowers and maintains blood pressure.
Reduces Pain
The anti-inflammatory property of bamboo shoots helps in reducing pain associated with various inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, painful joints and peptic ulcer.
Good For Brain and Nerves
The protective effect of bamboo shoots reduces oxidative stress on the nerves. It also prevents diseases associated with nerves degeneration like Parkinson, Alzheimer, Huntington and glaucoma.
Prevents Allergic Diseases
The anti-allergic activity of bamboo shoots is widely used to cure allergic conditions like asthma. Research has found that it helps in reducing the airway inflammation.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
