Horse Gram (A Super Food): 11 Amazing Benefits

 Horse gram is the perfect choice if you want a healthy option that people have relied on for many years. Kollu, as it’s known in Tamil, has been called a superfood because it has many health benefits. Since horse gram contains protein, fiber, antioxidants and important nutrients, it is truly valued in Indian homes.

We believe in staying true to our Indian heritage which is why our food is full of native ingredients. The blog will tell you what makes horse gram rare, guide you through its health benefits and give you tips on how to enjoy it every day.

Let’s find out why this age-old legume is worth our attention today.

What is Horse Gram?

Horse gram (also known as Macrotyloma uniflorum) is a protein-rich pulse that is grown extensively in South India. In the past, this seed was only eaten by horses, hence the name, but today it’s becoming more popular among people who want to eat healthily.

In Indian cuisine, horse gram is featured in Kollu Rasam, Kollu Chutney, Sundal and Podi, due to its ability to warm, burn fat and heal. This ingredient is often overlooked but is very powerful in the Indian diet.

Nutritional Value of Horse Gram (Per 100g)

Protein: 22g

Dietary Fiber: 5g

Calcium: 287 mg

Iron: 7 mg

Carbohydrates: 57g

Fat: 0.5g

Calories: ~320 kcal

It’s also a rich source of polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants, making it a natural remedy for many health issues.

11 Amazing Benefits of Horse Gram

1. Aids Weight Loss Naturally

Horse gram is high in dietary fiber and low in fat, which helps you feel full for longer. It also improves digestion and metabolism, supporting fat burn and reducing unnecessary cravings.

Add horse gram soup or rasam before meals—it acts as a natural appetite suppressant.

2. Boosts Immunity

The antioxidants, iron, and polyphenols in horse gram strengthen the immune system and help the body fight infections, especially during seasonal changes.

Kollu rasam is a perfect immunity booster during the cold and flu season.

3. Controls Blood Sugar Levels

Horse gram has a low glycemic index, meaning it releases glucose slowly into the bloodstream. This helps control sudden sugar spikes, making it ideal for diabetics.

Regular use can help manage Type 2 diabetes when combined with a balanced diet.

4. Improves Digestion

This pulse is excellent for the digestive system, helping relieve constipation, acidity, and bloating. Its high fiber content stimulates smooth bowel movements.

Soaked horse gram water is a traditional remedy for indigestion and gas.

5. Promotes Heart Health

Horse gram is known to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels due to its polyphenols and flavonoids. This, in turn, supports better heart health and blood pressure management.

Add boiled horse gram to salads for a heart-healthy boost.

6. Effective for Kidney Stones

In traditional Siddha medicine, horse gram is considered beneficial for dissolving kidney stones. It acts as a diuretic and flushes out toxins from the urinary tract.

Combine with cumin and coriander seeds for a natural kidney cleanse.

7. Fights Menstrual Disorders

Women suffering from irregular periods, PCOS, or painful cramps have found relief by consuming Kollu water or rasam regularly. Its iron and folate content helps improve blood flow and hormonal balance.

Make it a weekly dietary addition during menstruation for natural relief.

8. Rich Plant-Based Protein

Vegetarians and vegans can count on horse gram for high-quality plant protein. It supports muscle growth, repair, and stamina, making it an excellent post-workout food.

Try horse gram laddus or dry-roasted sundal for a protein-rich snack.

9. Detoxifies the Liver

This legume helps the liver eliminate toxins more effectively. Its antioxidant properties also prevent oxidative damage and support liver repair and regeneration.

A detoxifying Kollu soup once a week can do wonders for liver health.

10. Heals Cold, Cough & Respiratory Issues

In traditional South Indian households, Kollu Rasam is given to children and adults to treat phlegm, cold, and chest congestion. It works as a natural expectorant.

Drink warm Kollu rasam during monsoons or after a long day out in the cold.

11. Supports Bone Health

Thanks to its high calcium and phosphorus content, horse gram strengthens bones and reduces the risk of arthritis, joint pain, and osteoporosis.

Elderly people can benefit by adding boiled horse gram mash into their daily diet.

How to Include Horse Gram in Your Diet

There are many delicious ways to add horse gram to your daily meals:

• Kollu Rasam: Perfect for cold and flu relief.

• Kollu Chutney: Spicy and tangy dip for idlis or dosas.

• Kollu Podi: A dry spice mix that can be sprinkled over hot rice.

• Boiled Sundal: A Healthy snack or lunchbox item.

• Kollu Soup: Ideal for weight watchers.

• Kollu Laddu: Traditional sweet with jaggery for kids and elders.

Tip: Always soak horse gram overnight before using. This improves digestion and reduces cooking time.

Are There Any Side Effects?

While horse gram is safe and nutritious, excessive consumption without soaking or sprouting may cause flatulence or bloating in some people. Those with ulcers or high uric acid levels should consult a doctor before including it regularly.

Soaking, sprouting, and cooking thoroughly make it easier on the stomach.

Final Thoughts

In a world full of packaged superfoods, horse gram is a forgotten gem that’s been in our grandmothers' recipes for ages. It’s time to bring back this powerhouse pulse to our plates.

Whether you’re trying to lose weight, boost immunity, or eat clean, horse gram is your best friend in the kitchen.

FAQs About Horse Gram

1. Can I eat horse gram daily?

Yes, but moderation is key. 2–3 times a week is ideal for most people.

2. Can horse gram reduce belly fat?

Yes, it's high fiber and fat-burning properties can support belly fat loss when paired with exercise and diet.

3. How to make Kollu rasam?

Boil soaked horse gram, grind with garlic and spices, and simmer with tamarind water. Season with mustard and curry leaves.

4. Is horse gram good for kids?

Yes, it’s rich in calcium and protein. Serve it as Kollu laddu or sundal for kids.

For Horse gram kheer, please see my recipe blog. I enjoyed drinking it hot this evening for dinner !

 

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for food, medicines, exercises and so on.   

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https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

 

12 Natural Essential Oils for Pain Relief

What do you do when you are suffering from a migraine, or have pulled a muscle in your shoulder? How do you deal with a chronic condition like sciatica or arthritis, on a regular basis? When pain strikes, we will generally do just about anything and everything we can to get rid of that throbbing feeling, but while painkillers may seem like an obvious choice, swapping your meds for essential oils might be a wiser choice.

How do essential oils work?  

Essential oils are natural extracts from the core of a plant. They are produced as a by-product of photosynthesis (a process that converts light energy into chemical energy). Each extracted aromatic essence has its own unique chemical constituent, and each has its own specific therapeutic properties. When used correctly, the oils work to balance, harmonize and promote health of the body, mind and spirit. They work on a physiological, psychological and spiritual level, enhancing your innate healing process. 

 

The oils work on the mind and body in two ways: 

 

Through inhalation: Essential oils are volatile substances. When inhaled, the scent works its way up the nose, where thousands of receptors identify with its fragrant smell. At this point, the scent is processed by the limbic system in the brain (where emotional and psychological responses are processed) triggering a range of responses, from relaxing to stimulating. 

 

Through skin absorption: Essential oils (usually blended with a base oil - more details below) can be rubbed onto the affected area. Upon application, the oils work their way through all the layers of the skin, and into the bloodstream.

So, the next time you're in need of a little pain relief, opt for any of these 12 essential oils to help ease your aches and pains quickly. 

 

Disclaimer: Natural remedies should always be handled with care and essential oils are no exception to the rule. Essential oils should never be rubbed directly onto your skin, unless they have been diluted in a carrier oil (a cold pressed vegetable oil, such as coconut oil, sweet almond oil, avocado oil, olive oil, sesame oil, grapeseed oil or sunflower oil). 

 

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Properties:  

• Anti-inflammatory 

• Analgesic (pain killing) properties  

 

Benefits:  

• Eases sinuses. 

• Treats a stuffy nose (due to a cold). 

• Treats muscle aches, pains, strains and sprains. 

• Helps alleviate nerve pain.  

 

Use: 

• Add 6 to 10 drops in a bath, diluted in 1 tablespoon milk or honey, dispersed in water. 

 

• Add 12 drops to 1 fl. oz (30ml) carrier coil, then massage into the skin.  

 

 

 

Juniper Essential Oil

Properties: 

• Antispasmodic 

• Anti-rheumatic effects (perfect for anyone with Rheumatoid Arthritis) 

 

Benefits: 

• Alleviates everyday aches and pains. 

• May help with neuropathic pain. 

• Incredibly invigorating.

• Inspires you to get things done if you're lacking motivation. 

 

Use:  

• Add 12 drops to 1fl. oz (30ml) carrier oil, massaging into the skin. 

• Due to its invigorating properties, do not use at night. 

 

 

 

Chamomile Essential Oil 

Properties:  

• Anti-inflammatory 

 

Benefits:  

• Relieves PMS pain. 

• Alleviates muscle pains. 

• Aids headaches. 

 

• Eases neuralgia (pain along the course of a nerve). 

• Helps combat stress. 

 

Use:  

• Best used in a warm bath. 

• Add 6 to 10 drops in a bath, diluted in 1 tablespoon milk or honey, dispersed in water. 

 

 

 

Sandalwood Essential Oil
-

Properties: 

• Anti-inflammatory 

 

Benefits: 

• Must-have oil for dealing with muscle spasms. 

• Soothes sciatica. 

• Beneficial for lymph-node congestion. 

• Supports digestive and cardiovascular system. 

• Relieves minor skin irritations. 

• Will help calm and relax you.  

 

Use:  

• 6 to 10 drops diluted with 1 tablespoon of milk or honey in a bath. 

• Or, 12 drops to 1fl. oz (30ml) carrier oil and rub on affected area, when in pain. 

• To open up a clogged lymphatic system, massage the diluted solution directly on to the spine in a slow, counter-clockwise movement toward the heart. 

 

 

 

Lavender Essential Oil

Properties: 

• Antimicrobial Benefits: 

 • Melts away tension. 

• Combats any muscle pain or tension. 

• Helps deal with insomnia episodes. 

 

 

Use: 

• For some much needed pain relief combine with chamomile and/or sandalwood. 

• Add 4 drops lavender, 4 drops chamomile and 4 drops sandalwood to 1fl. oz (30ml) carrier oil. 

• The cheaper variations of lavender oil are usually mixed with fragrance - and will not work as well.

Rosemary Essential Oil

Properties: 

• Analgesic 

• Antispasmodic  

 

Benefits: 

• Relieves muscle sprains and spasms. 

• Eases joint pain. 

• Headache relief.  

 

Use:  

• Dilute 12 drops to 1fl. oz (30ml) carrier oil. 

• For headaches, apply dilution to a cotton ball and rub accordingly. 

 

 

 

Thyme Essential Oil

Properties: 

• Antispasmodic  

 

Benefits: 

• Perfect for back spasms. 

• Relieves general aches and pains.  

 

Use: • Due to its potent smell, apply 12 drops to 1fl. oz (30 ml) carrier oil, using a cotton ball.

Marjoram Essential Oil

Properties: 

 • Sedative effects  

 

Benefits:  

• Relieves migraines. 

• Perfect for muscle stiffness and soreness. 

• Eases muscle spasms. 

• Alleviates pain associated with arthritis.  

 

Use: 

• Most effective when diluted with a carrier oil [12 drops to 1 fl. oz (30ml)]. 

• Use in an aromatherapy diffuser by adding 5 drops to a burner. 

• May be inhaled by adding 10 drops to 4fl. oz (100ml). 

 

 

 

Wintergreen Essential Oil

Properties: 

• Analgesic 

• Anti-inflammatory 

• Antispasmodic 

 

Benefits: 

• Combats headaches. 

• Eases back pain. 

• Alleviates stiff joints.  

 

Use: • Rub on skin where necessary [12 drops to 1fl. oz (30ml) carrier oil].  

 

 

Spruce Essential Oil

Properties: 

• A powerful immune system and adrenal glands stimulator.  

 

Benefits: 

• Reduces pain caused by arthritis. 

• Eases lower back pain.

• Aids bone pain. 

• Lessens pain associated with sciatica and Rheumatoid Arthritis. 

 

Use: 

 • Use as an aromatherapy diffuser by adding 5 drops to a burner to help calm and center your mind. 

• Rub by diluting 12 drops to 1fl. oz (30ml) carrier oil, to affected area.  

 

 

Frankincense Essential Oil

Properties:  

• One of the most powerful anti-inflammatory oils  

 

Benefits: 

• Perfect for dealing with day-to-day aches and pains associated with arthritis and migraines.  

 

Use: 

 • Most effective when rubbed on the skin [dilute 12 drops to 1fl. oz (30ml) carrier oil].

• Inhale by adding the diluted blend onto a fabric cloth.  

 

 

 

White Fir Essential Oil

Properties: 

• Anti-arthritic 

• Analgesic

• Antiseptic 

 

Benefits:  

• Use on achy muscles (particularly after a workout).  

 

Use:  

• Massage directly onto muscle pain by diluting 12 drops to 1fl. oz (30ml) carrier oil.  

 

Top Tips 

• Combinations tend to work better, though their smell can at times be a little overpowering. When combining oils together, be sure to get the right dosage. As a rule of thumb, bear in mind that you need to dilute 12 drops essential oil to 1fl. oz (30ml) carrier oil. Therefore, if combining two oils, add 6 drops of one oil and 6 of another. If using three essential oils, add four drops of each, and so forth.

 

• Get as much out of the oils as you possibly can by applying a hot compress to the affected area after the dilution has been massaged into your skin. The heat and moisture from the compress will help the oils penetrate your skin and enter the body. 

 

• Use the oils two to four times a day, depending on the intensity of your pain. If using four times a day is not enough, seek medical advice. 

 

• When purchasing essential oils, look out for oils that are all-natural and pesticide free.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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