As per health experts, the Bignay tea, which is made from the bark of this tree, has many positive effects on health. The tea can aid in weight loss, promote heart health, and lower cholesterol levels. Read further to know more about the other health benefits of the Bignay fruit. Continue reading.
Health Benefits of Bignay Fruit
1. Natural Source Of Antioxidants
The natural anti-oxidative properties of this fruit, due to the presence of catechins, enable it to fight against the free radicals present in the human body (1), (2). The excessive presence of these radicals can result in premature onset of wrinkles, fine lines, and even cause cancer (3). The absence of antioxidants can result in the above-mentioned conditions. You can now keep all these at bay by consumption of Bignay, as whole fruit, or as tea. Bignay also contains mangiferin, a polyphenol antioxidant that prevents oxidation of LDL cholesterol and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease (4).
2. Used In The Treatment Of Syphilis
Syphilis is an infection transmitted sexually. Studies conducted on this plant have revealed that the leaves of this tree, when boiled, have the potential to treat Syphilis (5).
3. May Treat Urinary Tract Infections
Bignay is known to offer relief from infections that affect the urinary tract. However, limited scientific evidence is available to prove this claim.
4. Keeps Your Blood Pressure Levels Under Control
Bignay, in the form of fruit and leaves, has the potential to keep the levels of blood pressure under control. Thus, it could be consumed by people suffering from hypertension to thwart off various hypertension-induced cardiovascular issues (6).
5. Natural Antidote For Snake Bites
The matured leaves of bignay have been used in alternative medicines by Asian physicians to treat snake bites.
6. Helps You Lose Weight
Bignay tea is known to possess appetite-suppressing properties (7). Thus, drinking a cup of this tea half an hour before each meal can help you lose weight in a better way.
7. Natural Remedy For Constipation
Bignay fruit when consumed in large quantities is known to render a laxative effect. Hence, it can be used, in a restricted way, to offer relief to those who are suffering from constipation (8).
8. May Do Good For Your Colon
Bignay tea is a well-known natural colon cleanser. Therefore, you can make use of this tea to eliminate unwanted toxins from your body. The natural detoxifying properties of the tea can help you lose weight while helping you look younger. It is also known to improve digestion and thus, beneficial for your colon. However, limited data is available to prove these claims.
9. Good For The Liver
According to a study conducted by mice, bignay fruit extracts can help to keep your liver healthier (9). However, more human studies are needed to understand this benefit of bignay.
10. Good For Healthier Immune System
Bignay tea is known to pep up your metabolisms levels (10). The better the metabolism levels, the lower the infections will be. Thus, Bignay benefits to boost the power of your immune system.
11. May Help Fight Inflammation Associated With Arthritis
The mangiferin in Bignay has anti-inflammatory properties. It may help fight the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis and reduce the risk of joint destruction (11).
How To Use Bignay?
You can use the fruit to make brandy, vine, and vinegar. A natural flavoring agent, it is used popularly for making juices and jams. The berries can also be consumed raw, while the leaves can be used in salads.
Side Effects Of Bignay
The fruits and leaves of this plant are edible but stay away from the roots as they are poisonous. Pregnant women should stay away from these berries as Bignay is known to cause abortion. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to prove these claims.
Bignay Nutrition Facts
The food value given is for per 100 grams of the fruit. Is bignay good for kidneys? Check out the infographic below to learn more about our roundup of the top health benefits that bignay offers to you. Yes, bignay herbal tea may help improve a few kidney disorders (12). However, most herbal teas used for therapeutic treatments may have high lead content. Though bignay contains lead in permissible amounts, excess intake for prolonged periods may cause health complications. Therefore, consult your doctor before including bignay tea in your daily routine. Is bignay good for diabetes? Maybe. Animal research suggests that bignay crude extracts may help lower blood sugar levels (13). However, more human studies are required to prove its efficacy. What does bignay taste like? Bignay tastes a bit acidic when raw and slightly sweet when ripe. Is bignay a herbal medicine? Yes, being loaded with vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, bignay is considered a herbal medicine. It may help treat gastrointestinal problems like constipation and improve metabolism. Is bignay the same as cranberry? No, bignay is a tropical fruit in the form of a small berry with a sweet and tart flavor. Cranberry, on the other hand, has a sharp and sour taste when eaten raw. What family does bignay belong to? Bignay belongs to the family of Phyllanthaceae, the same family as the Indian gooseberry, and is native to Southeast Asia and Australia. Is bignay a currant? Yes, the currant tree is popularly known as bignay. The fruit is also considered the cousin of the black currant tree.
