Amazing Health Benefits of the Mango Kernal or ‘Gutli’
Mango seed or the gutli has a rich nutritional profile. Unfortunately, not many people know about it.
Mango is the most sought-after fruit of the summer season. Just the thought of biting into the succulent yellow flesh of the fruit can turn a bad day around. Mango is chockfull of nutrients like carotenoids, ascorbic acid and phytochemicals. But while the pulp and flesh of the fruit are devoured with great relish, the seeds are either discarded or kept aside for planting. But did you know that the ‘gutli’ or the kernel of the mango is also a powerhouse of nutrients? Here are some of the amazing health benefits of the gutli or mango kernel.
Protects the Liver
The mango kernel or the gutli or the fruit contains hepatic protective properties, which protects the liver. Consumption of the kernel can help improve the functions of the organ.
Protects the Heart
The compounds in the nutritionally-rich mango kernel helps in improving cardiovascular health and improving its functions. Since the seed is rich in antioxidants, it keeps the heart healthy and prevents the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Fights Cancer
A study has confirmed the cancer-fighting properties of mango seed and its endocarp. Bioactive compounds inside the mango seed like butylated hydroxytoluene, a potent antioxidant, helps in fighting cancers of the breast, cervix and colon.
Full of Antioxidants
Antioxidants are substances that help in fighting free radicals damage to the body. A daily dose of these nutrients are required to keep the human body free of cancer and heart diseases. The gutli or mango seed contains very high levels of antioxidants, which can help in preventing free-radical damage.
Fights Bacteria
The seed of the mango also has high antibacterial qualities, which helps in inhibiting harmful bacteria in the body and reducing chances of infections.
Good for the Skin
The healing oil extracted out the gutli or kernel of the mango can be used to successfully treat dry skin, frost bites, rashes, blemishes, itchy skin, dermatitis, fatigue, wounds and cracks. Regular application of the oil also helps in slowing skin ageing.
But unfortunately, the mango kernel’s nutritional potential is not fully recognised. The seed is nutritionally dense, containing a good amount of lipids, carbohydrates, minerals, starch and proteins. It’s a travesty that the mango seed is usually discarded. Far from being just a mango waste, the kernel contains a wide variety of bioactive compounds and antioxidants. So next time, don’t discard the seed after you are done with the mango.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 25, 2018 03:41 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).