Makhana a great snack as well as traditional medicine

Makhana, popped lotus seeds or fox nuts are a popular healthy snack, similar to popcorn. It is popular in India, China, Japan and Thailand

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Makhana is the edible starchy kernel found inside the lotus seed and is used in traditional medicine all over Asia

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The seeds can be had raw, roasted, ground or boiled into a syrup or paste after being peeled. They must be consumed in moderation — as a snack, not meal

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Roasted lotus seeds are eaten, either dry roasted or ghee-roasted, as snacks while fasting during Navratri. They’re a healthy alternative to sabudana and potato snacks

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Makhana tastes bland but takes on the flavour of the spices you add. It is used in dishes like kheer, khoya, raita, halwa, apart from spiced roasted snacks

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Bihar alone accounts for 90% of India’s makhana production. Makhana is an excellent gluten-free protein source and is rich in fibre as well

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In traditional medicine, lotus seeds are used in treating inflammation, cancer, skin diseases, insomnia, palpitations, poor digestion, chronic diarrhoea and enteritis

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Lotus seeds are rich in carbohydrates, protein, vitamins including vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin A and E, and essential minerals like magnesium and potassium

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They also contain abundant amounts of phytochemicals with valuable anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant traits

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The glycemic index of makhana is lower than that of several staple foods. Consuming makhana therefore limits the rise in blood sugar levels after food

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Lotus seeds contain magnesium and folate that help improve heart function. They are also low in sodium and help manage high blood pressure

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Makhana has a calming and natural sedative property, which can help cure people with sleeping disorders, restlessness, and fatigue

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The high fibre content in makhana helps improve one’s digestive health and bowel movement, and also helps treat diarrhoea

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Makhana is loaded with astringent properties and can help in kidney issues. They are a great source of selenium, which helps the thyroid function properly as well

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Lotus seeds can be consumed by all age groups, but within limits. In rare cases, it can cause allergies in the form of indigestion, constipation and stomach cramps

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