Why Many People Avoid Lady’s Finger(Bendakaya-เฐฌెంเฐกเฐాเฐฏ,Okra) — And Why It’s One of the Most Beneficial Vegetables You Can Eat Lady’s finger, known as bendakaya(เฐฌెంเฐกเฐాเฐฏ),Bhindi,okra, is one of the most misunderstood vegetables on our plates. Many people push it aside without a second thought, mainly because of its slimy texture. Some say it feels unpleasant, others believe it is hard to digest, and a few even think it offers no real nutritional value. But this simple judgment has caused countless people to miss out on a vegetable that quietly supports digestion, blood sugar balance, joint comfort, gut lining protection, skin hydration, and overall internal health. In older homes, bendakaya was never questioned. It was cooked regularly, eaten mindfully, and trusted deeply. Today, modern nutrition science is slowly catching up with that traditional wisdom. What our elders understood through experience is now being explained through research — and the results are surprising. The...
Drumstick (Moringa/Munagakaya/Munakkaya) Benefits: Nutrition, Scientific Research, Uses, Side Effects & Daily Intake
If there is one vegetable that truly deserves the title of “Nature’s Multivitamin,” it is undoubtedly the Drumstick, also known as (Moringa oleifera) In India it is called (Munagakaya/Munakkaya). From ancient Ayurveda manuscripts to modern scientific publications, drumstick has been consistently praised for its exceptional nutritional profile. What makes this vegetable unique is that almost every part of the tree is edible — leaves, pods, flowers, seeds, and even bark. But the most commonly used part in Indian cooking is the long, slender drumstick pods.
In 2025, as people worldwide are shifting toward natural wellness, drumstick is becoming a trending superfood — not just in India, but in the United States, Europe, Japan, and African countries. The reason is simple: drumstick is rich in protein, calcium, antioxidants, vitamins A & C, iron, magnesium, sulfur compounds, and phytonutrients that support immunity, digestion, fertility, joint health, hair strength, skin texture, and hormonal balance.
This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about drumsticks — nutritional value, scientifically proven benefits, daily intake, best time to eat, how to cook, who should avoid it, disadvantages, FAQs, and more.
What Are Drumsticks?
Drumsticks are the seed pods of the Moringa tree. The pods are long, green, fibrous, and filled with soft, nutrient-dense flesh. They have a mild earthy taste and are commonly used in South Indian sambar, rasam, dals, curries, and chutneys. Moringa trees grow in warm climates and can withstand drought, which is why they are widely cultivated in India and Africa.
Nutritional Value of Drumsticks (Per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 64 kcal |
| Protein | 2.1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8.3 g |
| Fiber | 4.8 g |
| Vitamin A | 74 ยตg |
| Vitamin C | 51 mg |
| Calcium | 30 mg |
| Iron | 0.6 mg |
| Magnesium | 43 mg |
| Potassium | 259 mg |
| Antioxidants | Very High |
Scientific Research on Moringa (Drumstick)
✔ A study from the Journal of Food Science & Nutrition found that drumstick contains over 90 nutrients and 46 antioxidant compounds.
✔ Research published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention shows drumstick leaves possess strong anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
✔ A Harvard University review stated that moringa may help regulate blood sugar and lipid levels.
✔ The Journal of Ethnopharmacology reported that moringa improves gut health and nutrient absorption.
Major Health Benefits of Drumsticks
1. Improves Digestion & Gut Health
Drumsticks are rich in fiber that helps clean the digestive tract. They reduce constipation, acidity, and gas. The sulfur-rich compounds also promote better food breakdown.
2. Strengthens Bones & Joints
The vegetable contains calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus which help strengthen bones. People suffering from knee pain, arthritis, or joint stiffness benefit significantly from regular consumption.
3. Boosts Immunity Naturally
Vitamin C content in drumstick is higher than many fruits. This boosts white blood cell production and supports the body in fighting infections.
4. Natural Blood Purifier
The chlorophyll and antioxidant compounds in drumsticks purify the blood, enhance circulation, and improve skin glow. This is why people with acne or dull skin are advised to include it in their diet.
5. Supports Hair Growth
Drumsticks contain sulfur compounds, biotin-equivalent nutrients, and minerals that nourish hair follicles. Regular intake reduces hair fall and strengthens roots. Also Read Our Hari Growth Oils.
6. Enhances Skin Texture
Vitamin C boosts collagen production, while antioxidants reduce pigmentation and improve overall complexion.
7. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar
Studies show that drumsticks slow down sugar absorption due to their fiber and antioxidant compounds, making them good for diabetics.
8. Improves Liver Function
Moringa protects liver enzymes, reduces fat accumulation, and helps regenerate liver tissues. also read our carrot beetroot juice
9. Boosts Energy Levels
Moringa is often called the “Energy Miracle Tree” because it improves oxygen flow, metabolism, and cellular energy production.
10. Supports Male Reproductive Health
Research shows drumsticks help improve sperm quality, mobility, and testosterone balance due to high antioxidant and mineral content.
11. Beneficial for Women’s Hormonal Health
Iron, calcium, folate, and vitamin C in drumsticks support women’s reproductive system, reduce PMS discomfort, and improve hemoglobin levels.
12. Protects Against Inflammation
Moringa’s anti-inflammatory capacity is comparable to turmeric. It helps reduce body inflammation caused by lifestyle disorders.
13. Enhances Brain Function
Moringa promotes mental clarity, reduces fatigue, and improves concentration. Benefits of almonds for brain.
14. Good for Eyesight
Rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene, drumstick improves eye health and reduces the risk of age-related degeneration.
15. Reduces Blood Pressure
Magnesium and potassium in drumsticks help relax blood vessels and improve heart health.
16. Supports Weight Loss
Low-calorie, high-fiber drumsticks help control appetite and improve metabolism.
17. Helps Detox the Body
Moringa flushes toxins from the liver and blood, supporting holistic detoxification.
18. Maintains Gut Microbiome
Drumsticks feed healthy gut bacteria and reduce harmful microbes.
19. Improves Thyroid Function
Moringa supports thyroid activity and may help balance metabolism-related disorders.
20. Natural Anti-Aging Vegetable
The antioxidants in drumsticks slow cellular damage, improving longevity and vitality.
How to Eat Drumsticks: Best Cooking Methods
- Sambar
- Moringa soup
- Steamed drumstick pieces
- Moringa curry
- Drumstick + dal
- Drumstick leaf powder (for extra nutrition)
Best Time to Eat Drumsticks
- Lunch: Best time — helps digestion and energy.
- Evening: Drumstick soup works excellent.
Daily Intake Recommendation
✔ ½ cup cooked drumstick per day ✔ Or 5–6 long pieces ✔ Drumstick leaves powder: 1 teaspoon per day
Advantages of Drumsticks
- Strengthens bones and immunity
- Supports hair and skin
- Good for digestion
- Reduces inflammation
- Rich in vitamins and minerals
Disadvantages of Drumsticks
- Too much can cause stomach irritation
- Pregnant women should eat moderately
- May lower blood pressure for already low-BP people
Who Should Avoid Drumsticks?
- People with low blood pressure
- Pregnant women (excess consumption)
- People with stomach ulcers must limit intake
FAQs Drumstick (Moringa/Munagakaya/Munakkaya)
1. Is drumstick(moringa/munagakaya/munakkaya) good for diabetes?
Yes, it slows sugar absorption and supports insulin activity.
2. Is it safe for children?
Yes, drumsticks support immunity and bone growth in kids.
3. Can drumstick (moringa/munagakaya/munakkaya) improve fertility?
Yes, it has nutrients that support reproductive health in men and women.
4. Is drumstick (moringa/munagakaya/munakkaya) leaf powder safe?
Yes, but 1 teaspoon per day is recommended.
5. Can drumsticks(moringa/munagakaya/munakkaya) cause gas?
If eaten raw or in excess, it may cause mild bloating.
Murali’s Thoughts
Drumstick ante chala mandi just sambar lo taste kosam use chestaru. But actual ga, health benefits unbelievable ga untayi. Regular ga thinte digestion, immunity, skin glow, and joint health lo visible improvement untundi. Simple vegetable, but benefits extraordinary.
Conclusion
Drumsticks (Moringa) are one of the most powerful vegetables on earth. With high vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and medicinal compounds, they offer immense health benefits for your entire body. Including them regularly in your diet can significantly improve digestion, skin, hair, bones, and immunity.
What About You?
Do you eat drumsticks(moringa/munagakaya/munakaya) regularly?
How do you prefer cooking them — sambar, curry, or soup?
Share your experience in the comments!
Medical Disclaimer
All information provided here is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical professional if you have health conditions, pregnancy, or take medications.
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