Healthy Benefits of Kecombrang for the Body
Kecombrang is one of the spices that is often used when preparing food. Interestingly, almost all parts of kecombrang can be used, from the flower to the stem.
Besides having a unique taste and exotic aroma, it turns out that this plant also has a good impact on health. If you often eat kecombrang, let’s find out some of the following benefits of kecombrang. Healthy Benefits of Kecombrang for the Body
1. Preventing Increase in Blood Sugar Levels
Apparently, the benefits of kecombrang flowers can also be obtained in diabetics, you know!
This is in line with what was said by Dr. Dyah Novita Anggraini. According to him, kecombrang can prevent an increase in blood sugar levels by inhibiting the digestive enzymes glucosidase and amylase.
“Both of these enzymes can break down sugar and carbohydrates. In addition, the content of flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids in kecombrang can also control blood sugar,” he said.
2. Contains Many Nutrients
kecombrang turns out to have a lot of nutrients. In 100 grams of kecombrang contains:
- Water: 90 grams
- Energy: 34 calories
- Protein: 0,9 gram
- Fat: 1.0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6.7 grams
- Fiber: 2.6 grams
- Kalsium: 60 mg
- Fosfor: 16 mg
- Iron: 1m0 mg
- Natrium: 47 mg
- Potassium: 650 mg
- Vitamin B2: 0,02 mg
- Niacin: 0,8 mg
In addition to the nutrients above, there are small amounts of other minerals and vitamins contained in kecombrang.
3. Has Antioxidant Effects
This plant, which has the Latin name Etlingera elatior, also turns out to have an antioxidant effect in it. Dried kecombrang flowers contain flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins and tannins.
These antioxidants can help fight free radicals in the body which often cause cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and atherosclerosis.
4. Rich in Vitamin C
Quoting from the Chemical Academic Journal, kecombrang flowers contain vitamin C which can help meet daily vitamin needs.
Based on this research, it is known that the level of vitamin C in 100 grams of kecombrang flower shoots is 26.40 mg. Whereas in 100 grams of blooming flowers, the vitamin C contained is 44.26 mg. This means that the level of vitamin C in kecombrang flowers will increase based on the level of maturity.
5. Improve Bone and Teeth Health
The kecombrang plant has a high mineral content, including the calcium in it.
By eating processed kecombrang, this can help maintain healthy bones and teeth, especially in children who are still growing.
6. Treating Wounds
Apart from having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, kecombrang also contains antimicrobials in it.
This is effective enough to help the wound healing process and keep it sterile. Instead of using chemical drugs, you can use kecombrang to treat wounds naturally.
7. Prevents Dehydration
The benefits of kecombrang flowers can prevent dehydration. The reason is, this plant contains a lot of water and minerals in it, so that it can meet the needs of fluids in the body.
It is important to remember, that dehydration can be harmful to the body. Therefore, make sure to meet your body’s fluid needs, okay?
8. Overcoming Body Odor
The kecombrang plant has a fragrant aroma. In fact, the stems can be used as a fragrance to get rid of body odor.
Kecombrang contains antioxidants which can play a role in eliminating unpleasant odors. To get the benefits of this one, you can mash kecombrang flowers and their stems, then use them as soap.
9. As Detoxification
Interestingly, kecombrang can actually function as a detoxification of the body. This plant consists of natural compounds that can cleanse the blood of toxins, bacteria, or other substances. That way, blood circulation becomes smoother and the body can be healthier.
Of the many benefits of the kecombrang plant above, of course, it’s too bad to miss it. Moreover, kecombrang can be processed into various dishes.
10. Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The benefits of kecombrang can also help overcome discomfort in the stomach. According from the Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences, E. elatior has anti-inflammatory activity that can treat stomach ulcer symptoms.
However, further research is needed in humans to find out the truth of this one kecombrang benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Q1: What is Kecombrang?
A1: Kecombrang, also known as torch ginger or Etlingera elatior, is a flowering plant native to Southeast Asia. It is commonly used in various cuisines and traditional medicine.
Q2: What are the healthy benefits of Kecombrang for the body?
A2: Kecombrang has several potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, aiding digestion, and providing antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage.
Q3: How can Kecombrang be used in cooking?
A3: Kecombrang is often used in cooking to add flavor and aroma to dishes. The flower buds are used in salads, sambals, and curries, while the young shoots are used in various Asian recipes.
Q4: Does Kecombrang have any medicinal uses?
A4: Yes, Kecombrang is used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits, such as reducing fever, relieving pain, and treating various gastrointestinal issues.
Q5: Where can I find Kecombrang?
A5: Kecombrang can be found in certain grocery stores or Asian markets, especially in regions where it is commonly used in cooking. It can also be grown in tropical climates as an ornamental plant.