The diverse and flavorsome cuisine of India is renowned worldwide, offering a rich tapestry of aromatic spices and ingredients. Indian cuisine is not only tantalizing for the taste buds but also known for its emphasis on digestive properties. After a fulfilling meal, indulging in digestive Indian items can provide comfort and promote healthy digestion.
Buttermilk (Chaas)
One of the most popular and refreshing post-meal digestive drinks in India is buttermilk, also known as chaas. It is made by whisking yogurt with water and adding spices like roasted cumin powder, black salt, and mint leaves. Buttermilk helps cool down the body, aids digestion, and provides essential probiotics. Its soothing properties make it an ideal choice to cleanse the palate and ease any heaviness after a meal.
Saunf (Fennel) Seeds
Saunf, or fennel seeds, are widely used in Indian households as a natural mouth freshener and digestive aid. After a meal, chewing on a teaspoon of saunf helps in alleviating bloating, flatulence, and indigestion. These tiny seeds have carminative properties that aid in the secretion of digestive enzymes, promoting better digestion.
Pan (Betel Leaf) Masala
Pan, a betel leaf preparation, is popularly consumed as a digestive mouth freshener after meals. It consists of betel leaf, areca nut, and various aromatic spices such as cardamom, cloves, and fennel seeds. This flavorful concoction not only enhances the overall dining experience but also aids in digestion by stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes.
Papad (Poppadom)
Papads are thin, crispy lentil or rice flour wafers that are commonly served as a side dish or appetizer in Indian meals. These gluten-free delights can also be enjoyed after a meal as they aid in digestion. Papads are known to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and provide a satisfying crunch. They come in various flavors like plain, pepper, cumin, or even spicy variants, adding an extra dimension of taste.
Ginger and Lemon Infusion (Adrak-Lemon Water)
Ginger and lemon infusion is a popular Ayurvedic remedy to improve digestion and cleanse the system. A warm cup of water with freshly grated ginger and a squeeze of lemon after a meal helps stimulate digestion, relieves bloating, and detoxifies the body. This simple concoction is not only beneficial for digestion but also helps boost immunity.
Digestive Candies
Digestive candies like Hing Peda online are a combination of herbs, spices, and salts that help in digestion. These tangy and zesty candies are formulated to provide relief from indigestion, bloating, and acidity. They are usually made with ingredients such as black salt, cumin seeds, ginger, and mint. Sucking on a digestive Ram Ladoo online post-meal can offer a refreshing and digestive boost.
Aam Panna
Aam Panna is a refreshing summer beverage made from raw mangoes. It is known for its cooling properties and digestive benefits. The drink is prepared by boiling raw mangoes and blending them with mint leaves, cumin powder, black salt, and sugar. Aam Panna helps in preventing heatstroke, improving digestion, and replenishing electrolytes.
Tulsi (Holy Basil) Tea
Tulsi, or holy basil, is considered a sacred herb in India and has numerous health benefits. Tulsi tea is known for its calming effect and its ability to improve digestion. It can be made by steeping fresh or dried tulsi leaves in hot water. Tulsi tea aids in reducing stomach acidity, relieving indigestion, and promoting overall digestive health.
Mukhwas
Mukhwas is a traditional Indian mouth freshener made with a mix of aromatic seeds, nuts, and spices. It is often served at the end of a meal to freshen the breath and aid digestion. Mukhwas typically includes fennel seeds, sesame seeds, dried coconut flakes, and various spices such as cardamom and cloves. Chewing on a spoonful of mukhwas after a meal can help in digestion and curb sweet cravings.
Triphala
It is a herbal powder made from a combination bibhitaki, haritaki, and amla (Indian gooseberry). It is known for its gentle laxative properties and its ability to support healthy digestion. Triphala can be used by mixing a teaspoon of the powder in warm water before bed to aid in detoxification and promote regular bowel movements.
Summing Up
Indian cuisine not only offers an extensive range of flavors and culinary experiences but also provides numerous digestive aids to ensure optimal digestion. From buttermilk to digestive candies, these traditional Indian delights can be enjoyed after a meal to promote better digestion, relieve discomfort, and enhance overall well-being. By incorporating these digestive items into your post-meal routine, you can savor the taste of Indian cuisine while keeping your digestive system happy and healthy.