Jaljeera is a traditional Indian drink, which was used to be stored in matkas wrapped with wet cloth to keep it cool. It is not only cool and refreshing but also a powerhouse of benefits. This concoction of water and cumin as the key ingredients is also spiced with mint, black salt and lemon juice, and each of these ingredients have their own benefits.
Ingredients and its benefits
Cumin
Jaggery
Black salt
Lemon juice
Mint leaves
Water
Cumin: While cumin has a pungent and bitter taste, it has a cooling effect and is light and dry that reduces all three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. It is known to have properties like carminative, digestive, aromatic, anti-spasmodic, diuretic (promotes dieresis that increases production of urine) and galactagogue (promotes lactation in humans). According to Ayurveda, cumin is excellent in promoting digestion. It removes toxins, and directs the flow of Vata downwards. While it alleviates intestinal spasms and vomiting, it also clears the head of mucus and congestion.
Lemon: According to Ayurveda, lemon is cooling in nature and has light, dry and penetrating qualities that alleviate Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. It is known to have carminative, expectorant, decongestant, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Lemon also stimulates salivary and digestive secretions, and enhances bile flow and the emulsion of fats. It has laxative effect and strengthens the bowel system. As it has antibacterial qualities, it increases appetite and clears coughs and mucous.
Black salt is pungent in taste due to the presence of sodium sulfide and sodium chloride. According to Ayurveda, it decreases the Vata dosha but increases Pitta and Kapha. It also stimulates the appetite, digests toxins, clears channels and obstructions, acts as a purgative, and liquefies mucus. It also has digestive, alkaline, lubricant, laxative, and water retentive qualities.
Jaggery prevents constipation as it aids in digestion. It acts as a detox, and helps cleanse the liver by flushing out toxins from the body. Jaggery is rich in antioxidants and minerals like zinc and selenium, which help prevent free-radicals. It also helps to boost the body’s resistance against infections, hence builds stronger immunity.
How to prepare jaljeera
Tie the cumin seeds in a cloth and soak in water or you can put the cumin seeds directly in the water and later strain it. Put four cups of water in a pot and add the soaked cumin. Cover the pot and boil it. As soon as the water starts to boils, turn the heat off and leave it aside for 30-45 minutes. Once the concoction is cool, add lemon juice and jaggery. If you don’t want sweet, then avoid jaggery. Add black salt according to taste. The drink can be served with ice. You can add mint leaves for taste and refreshment.
Benefits of Jaljeera
Helps in digestion: Both cumin and black salt act as good digestive. Cumin relieves intestinal gas, acidity and heart burns. Jaljeera works wonders in regulating digestion as it helps in stimulating digestive enzymes. As we sip the drink, it is easily absorbed into our system through osmosis, and kills the microbes. Adding mint in jaljeera keeps the stomach cool.
Keeps us hydrated: Jaljeera is refreshing and keeps the body cool. The fresh mint leaves added to the drink regulate the body temperature and keep us cool.
Prevent anaemia: Cumin helps to prevent and treat anaemia as it is an excellent source of iron. It even improves immunity and keeps the body cool.
Great for respiratory system: In times of rising air pollution, this natural drink helps as it is good for our respiratory system. The spices and herbs in jaljeera help in breaking down mucous. If you have jaljeera in lukewarm water or hot water, it is good for cold and congestion in your chest.
Improve vitamin C deficiency: Lemon is a source of vitamin C, and helps to improve immunity and keeps scurvy at bay.
Good for acidity: People suffering from acidity can drink jaljeera. After a rich and oily meal, if you feel heavy, jaljeera can help to soothe the uneasiness and it reduces the chances of acidity.
Burns calories: It is a healthy alternative to high-calorie aerated beverage. For calorie conscious people, it is a care-free drink, which has very low calorie content
