The delectable crunch of masala-coated makhana here has filled many of our evenings, alongside a hot cup of chai. We're sure you savour these antioxidant-laden, protein-loaded snacks every now and then - as a side dish or as a separate snack. Also known as 'fox seeds' and 'lotus seeds', makhana is a powerhouse of nutrients that contribute to your overall health if consumed correctly in the right amounts. These aquatic cash crops, found in stagnant perennial water bodies, haven't always claimed a spot in our household cabinets though. They've been employed in traditional medicines to treat kidney-related problems, excessive leukorrhea, hypofunction of the spleen, and chronic diarrhoea. In different parts of the country, they're consumed in varying ways. In north Bihar, for instance, the seed is consumed in the popped form, and in Manipur, the leaves and stems of the plant are added to vegetable curries. Very versatile, aren't they? Makhana is also used extensively in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. You'll find them in curries, yoghurt, milkshakes, and milk, and they're just as appetising roasted or ground as they are fried - although you must steer clear of the fried versions of the seeds if you're looking to redeem its health benefits. We roped in Dr. Monisha Aravind, M.D.DVL, PDFC, Aesthetic Dermatologist and Medical Director of Armoraa Skin Solutions, LLP to share her insights with us on the benefits of makhana.
