Camphor, also known as Kapur in Hindi, has long been praised as a curative substance in India. It is of two types- edible camphor and synthetic camphor. It is produced by distilling the wood and bark of the Camphor or Kapur tree.
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Camphor is used in room fresheners, essential oils, and religious ceremonies as even its fragrance can have a positive impact on our health. Edible camphor has also long been a part of India’s culinary culture.
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Especially in some South Indian cities and in some sweets made with cottage cheese in Bihar, many heirloom recipes use edible camphor as an ingredient and for all the right reasons. Edible camphor is loaded with wholesome qualities for the body. Here are the many benefits of edible camphor and how to include it in your diet.
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Relieves cough and cold: Edible camphor has expectorant properties that expel the mucus from the lungs and allow decongested breathing. It is capable of removing the mucus effectively even in the presence of the sita or cold property. It opens the nasal passageway to allow proper airflow. People who are suffering from a bad cough can also find relief by using edible camphor.
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Aids digestion: Edible camphor has appetising and digestive properties. Therefore, it helps to improve the health of a weak digestive fire, which is one of the prime reasons for indigestion. It can also be helpful in solving issues such as gastroenteritis and diarrhoea. People who regularly suffer from gastric problems can also find relief after consuming edible camphor. However, it is also essential to consume it in moderation.
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Prevents obesity: Poor diet and lifestyle choices are one of the most notable contributors to weight gain. They weaken the digestive system and promote the accumulation of waste in the body that ultimately leads to weight gain. Edible camphor strengthens the digestive system and removes the accumulated toxins from the body. It also has a scraping property, and it is helpful in reducing the excess fat storage and thus preventing obesity.
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Promotes libido: Edible camphor is an aphrodisiac and can play a decisive role in boosting one’s libido by igniting the sections of the brain that controls sexual behaviour and desires. Merely inhaling the camphor can also provide these benefits. It is an excellent stimulator of hormones for both men and women.
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Helps with nerve disorders: Limited and controlled consumption of edible camphor can prove to be effective in treating a number of serious health concerns such as muscular contraction, convulsions, nervous disorders and epilepsy. However, people who suffer from these problems should consume camphor only after proper consultation with their doctor.
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Camphor flavoured pongal: Dry roast ¼ cup green gram and combine it with ½ cup raw rice. Wash and drain the mixture and add to a hot pan. Then add water to the mix and bring it to a boil. Grate ½ cup jaggery in another pan, add 1 cup water and let it melt until a thick mixture is formed. When the rice is cooked, add the jaggery syrup to it. Mash the mixture with a ladle. Heat 2 tbsp ghee in a pan and add a handful of chopped cashews and whole raisins. Add 2 grams edible camphor and 3 tsp green cardamom powder. Combine with the rice mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes over low flame. Serve hot.
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Camphor flavoured laddoo: Sieve 1 cup gram flour (besan) in a mixing bowl and add water to make a smooth and thick batter. Add 1 tsp cooking soda to it. Then, heat 1-inch oil for deep frying. Take a perforated scoop (boondi jhara) and pour the batter over it while keeping the ladle over the hot oil. The boondi drops should fall in the oil. Fry until crispy and keep aside. Now, boil 2 cups of sugar in 2 ½ cups water to make a ‘chashni’. When it reaches 1 string consistency, add 1 tsp cardamom powder, ¼ tsp cloves, saffron soaked in 2 tbsp hot water and 1 granule of edible camphor. Now add boondi to this syrup and mix well. Add 15 coarsely chopped cashews, 25 raisins to the mix and then roll into small laddoos. Keep at a cool place.
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What to remember: Do not confuse synthetic camphor with edible camphor. Only include edible camphor to your diet after consulting with your healthcare professional. Consuming more than the recommended amount of camphor can cause various digestive problems, including nausea, vomiting and indigestion. Also, do not substitute edible camphor as the only cure for any underlying health condition.
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