Tamarind fruit grows on a tamarind tree, which can be up to 15-25 meters tall. Both the trees and fruits of tamarind and sweet tamarind look the same. This exotic-looking fruit has a pod-like shape and is often curved. As the fruit ripens, the brown shell separates from the meat and becomes thin and brittle. When you crack open the shell, you'll see sticky brown pulp covering black seeds.
Medicinal Uses
Tamarind has played an important role in traditional medicine.
In beverage form, it was commonly used to treat diarrhea, constipation, fever and peptic ulcers. The bark and leaves were also used to promote wound healing.
Modern researchers are now studying this plant for potential medicinal uses.
The polyphenols in tamarind have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These can protect against diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
The seed extract may also help lower blood sugar, while the pulp extract may help you lose body weight and reverse fatty liver disease
