Curry leaf is rich in antioxidants and, above all, a good source of plant-based iron. A secret tip for anyone looking for a plant-based alternative to conventional iron supplements that is suitable for vegans.
What are the functions of iron in the body?
The trace element iron is vital for your organism. You need it for normal energy metabolism and for the formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin. In addition, iron contributes to the transport of oxygen in the body. Here is an overview of the most important functions of iron:
Iron contributes to ...
- ... the normal formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin
- ... the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
- ... normal oxygen transport in the body
- … the normal function of the immune system
- ... normal energy metabolism
- ... normal cognitive function
How common is iron deficiency in Germany?
According to the German Nutrition Society, adult men require an intake of 10 mg of iron per day, while the recommended value for adult women up to the age of 51 is as much as 15 mg, and pregnant and breastfeeding women should consume a substantial 30 mg daily. Accordingly, they suffer from iron deficiency more frequently. According to the German Society for Hematology and Medical Oncology, 5 to 10 percent of people in Europe suffer from iron deficiency. Women of childbearing age represent the largest group at about 20 percent. However, chronic diseases such as intestinal or kidney diseases also promote a deficit. Likewise, heavy bleeding during menstruation as well as a vegetarian or vegan diet can greatly promote an iron deficiency.
What symptoms of iron deficiency are possible:
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue, lethargy
- Paleness
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Susceptibility to infection
- Cracked corners of the mouth
- Disturbances in nail and hair growth
- Chronic diseases
Iron + Vitamin C
Combination for Energy + Defense
Curry leaf: The natural alternative to other iron supplements
Curry leaves grow on evergreen trees and shrubs that can reach up to six meters in height. These are known as the curry tree (Murraya koenigii) and belong to the rue family (Rutaceae). The home of the curry tree is tropical to subtropical Asia. It is therefore found in India, but also in Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and even China. Curry leaves have nothing to do with curry powder.
Curry leaves are considered to be very easily digestible and a true benefit for the stomach and intestines. In addition to plenty of iron, they contain antioxidants and high-quality essential oil. This allows the plant-based iron from curry leaf extracts to be particularly well utilized by your organism and support your well-being. Because of its high iron content, curry leaf is considered an interesting plant-based alternative to other iron supplements.
Plant-based iron tablets made from curry leaf are particularly well tolerated because they do not have the common side effects of other iron supplements, such as nausea and constipation. In addition, the absorption of iron in the body is improved by the simultaneous intake of vitamin C. Therefore, drink a glass of fruit juice, such as orange juice, when taking an iron supplement. Iron products combined with vitamin C are particularly ideal. In general, it is best to take iron supplements with plenty of liquid half an hour to an hour before a meal. Tip: Avoid coffee, black tea, and milk when taking iron tablets. They interfere with the absorption of iron in the body.
What is curry leaf used for in Ayurveda?
According to Ayurvedic Dosha theory, which focuses on the harmony of forces within a person, curry leaves lower the Pitta Dosha, which stands for heat and fire. Aside from that, curry leaves are primarily interesting because of their high content of plant-based iron. In particular, people who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet and suffer from iron deficiency can benefit from curry leaf extract.
How and when can curry leaf be taken?
Extracts from curry leaves are easily digestible and are well utilized by the body. This is especially true when they are combined with vitamin C, as this nutrient promotes the absorption of iron. You can use curry leaf extracts on a long-term basis, but you should take a break from intake after 1 to 2 months.
Conclusion
We need iron to transport oxygen in the body and to form red blood cells. In addition, iron and vitamin C contribute to the normal function of the immune system. Check beforehand with your doctor and a corresponding blood test whether you have an iron deficiency. The group of people with iron deficiency often includes, above all, vegans, pregnant women, women with (heavy) menstrual bleeding, and people with chronic gastrointestinal problems. Prevent iron deficiency in good time. Curry leaf iron capsules with vitamin C from rosehip extract are a very well-tolerated and purely plant-based iron source from the Indian healing system of Ayurveda.
In general: For optimal iron absorption in the body, simultaneous intake of vitamin C is recommended, for example through fruit juices. It is best to take iron products in the morning on an empty stomach with fruit juice. If you are taking medication, please note: Iron can prevent the absorption of some medicines (antibiotics, bisphosphonates, thyroid hormones). Conversely, medication can also reduce iron absorption (antacids). For this reason, a sufficient time interval of at least two to three hours between doses is recommended.
If you would like to learn more about Ayurveda, continue reading in this post: Ayurveda – Just another trend?
Are you looking for more information on other products containing iron? Then read more under Active ingredients-Minerals-Trace elements-Iron.
1.) Source: Bhandari PR. Curry leaf (Murraya koenigii) or Cure leaf: Review of its curative properties. J Med Nutr Nutraceut 2012;1:92-7
