The scientific name of finger millet is Elusinecoracana. It is also known as ragi. It is considered an important millet. It grows extensively in many parts of Africa and India. The finger millet is an annual herbaceous plant. The finger millet is native to Asia, Africa, Ugandan and Ethiopian highlands. The taste of finger millet is sweet, astringent, acrid, and bitter. The colors of finger millet are next: white, red, brown, or black. The finger millet can grow on various soils, including highly weathered tropical lateritic soils.
The flowering season of finger millet is from July to August. The propagation of finger millet is by seeds. The seed of finger millet is cooling, tonic and astringent. The finger millet is used in the treatment of hepatitis, fever, and biliousness. The juice from the finger millet has been given to women in childbirth and the plant is reported to be vermifuge, diuretic, and diaphoretic. The seeds of finger millet can be cooked whole or ground and be used as flour. The finger millet is used in porridge, puddings, cakes, etc.
Here are some health benefits of finger millet:
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Helps in weight loss:
The finger millet has high amounts of dietary fiber which can help to keep your stomach full for longer. It can help to prevent unwanted cravings. This will lead to a minimized appetite and weight loss. The flour made from the finger millet will lower your blood sugar levels in the body by activating insulin. You should consume it in the morning, so you will make the most of its qualities and it will help you to feel full through the day.
Relaxes the body:
It has been shown that the regular consumption of finger millet can help you to deal with conditions, such as insomnia, depression, and anxiety. The finger millet has antioxidants, mainly amino acids and tryptophan, which help the body because they work as natural relaxants. In one study done in 2000 was said that the consumption of finger millet can be used for migraines.
Reduces cholesterol:
It has been shown that the finger millet can make wonders in bringing down blood cholesterol levels. It is one of the best home remedies for heart health. The finger millet can help to control cholesterol levels by reducing plaque formation and it can help to prevent the blockage of blood vessels.
This will cut down your risk of stroke and heart diseases. The finger millet has key amino acids, known as methionine and lecithin, which can help to lower cholesterol by extracting and cutting out excess fat from the liver. The amino acid threonine can help to prevent the formation of fat in the liver. Also, when the finger millet is unripe, in its green form, can help to control high blood pressure and hypertension.
Increases lactation:
The finger millet is rich in nutrition for new mothers. Also, it can help to improve hemoglobin levels. It is recommended for lactating mothers to add finger millet to their daily diet because this can help to improve their milk production. Also, the finger millet can help to enrich the milk with all essential minerals for the body, like calcium, iron, and vital amino acids which are very important for the child as well as for the mother.
Helps digestion:
The finger millet has high levels of dietary fiber which will aid in normal bowel movement, proper digestion and will prevent constipation. The finger millet has insoluble fiber which will assist in the movement of food through the intestines. You should add the finger millet to your daily diet, so it can help you to have a good digestive system and also, it will help you to avoid the risk of constipation and other digestive disorders.
Anticancer potential:
The finger millet has high amounts of antioxidants. They can help to prevent excessive oxidation, which can cause cancer and aging due to cell damage. Finger millet has tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have a lot of antioxidant properties. The frequent use of finger millet can help to lower your chances of esophageal cancer.
