In Mexico, it is known that the guajes (Leucaena leucocephala) are plants of great value. Guajes health benefits are known to relieve cough, gastric disorders, pain, and rheumatism. For this reason, the indigenous populations have always considered them as plants of magical properties since they cure without knowing how or adding medicines.
Guajes are in the legume family and pack a big nutritional punch. They are rich in proteins, calcium, phosphorus, sugars and vitamin B1. What is interesting about the guajes is that it has a high iron content, which is not prevalent in other plants. In addition, its leaves are used as feed for livestock because of their nutritional content.
Like many other legumes, guaje seeds are a source of high-quality proteins. They also contain significant levels of dietary fiber, minerals (such as calcium and magnesium), and vitamins (especially B1 and B2). Legumes are also an important source of resistant starch. Resistant starch is a kind of dietary fiber that acts as food for the friendly flora in your colon, helping to keep your gut healthy.
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Guaje seeds are also a good source of antioxidants. These nutrients scavenge harmful toxins and byproducts of metabolism that can lead to cancer and other diseases.
The guaje has been used for centuries by the indigenous populations of central mexico to cure different kinds of diseases. The first reference to its medicinal properties is from the nahuas, one thousand years before our era. They called it guaje because when you chew a bit of it and put it in your teeth, you feel a kind of heat.
Guajes Health Benefits
1. Relieves Coughs
Guajes health benefits have a natural expectorant effect, which is very helpful in cases of respiratory problems such as asthma or bronchitis. In addition, they help to remove phlegm. Respiratory issues like cough and congestion can be relieved by drinking tea made from guaje seeds.
2. Treats Gastric Disorders
The guajes have a powerful antacid effect, so fruits and seeds are very effective in treating digestive problems such as gastritis or ulcers. They also stimulate the production of saliva and bile, improving digestion. Rich in fiber , the guaje helps to regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.
3. Soothes Pain
The analgesic properties of guajes health benefits make it a natural pain reliever. It can be helpful in treating conditions such as arthritis, muscle pain, and menstrual cramps. Guaje seeds are used in the traditional treatment of rheumatism, arthritis, and neuralgia because of its analgesic, anti-inflammatory properties.
Related: The Ultimate Guide to Natural Pain Management
4. Eases Fever
The guaje seeds are an excellent natural remedy against fever. They help to lower body temperature and improve the overall condition of the person suffering from fever.
5. Boosts Immunity
The high vitamin C content of the guaje helps boost the immune system, which can help fight off infections and diseases. The antioxidants in the plant also help protect the body from free radical damage.
6. Prevents And Treats Cancer
The high levels of antioxidants in the guajes make them a powerful cancer-preventing and cancer-fighting agent.
7. Natural Diuretic And Laxative
Guaje is a natural diuretic and laxative, which helps to remove toxins and waste from the body. This can help to improve overall health and reduce the risk of diseases.
8. Good Source Of Protein
The protein in the guaje seeds is a high-quality, complete protein. This means that it contains all the essential amino acids that your body needs.
9. Improves Digestion And Prevents Constipation
Guajes health benefits help improve digestion, allowing your body to better absorb the nutrients from the food you eat. This can help to prevent health problems. The seeds are effective in treating constipation due to their high fiber content.
Related: 5 Tips on How To Unconstipate Yourself
10. Reduces Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory properties of guajes health benefits help to reduce inflammation in the body. This can help to prevent or treat conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.
11. Weight Loss
Weight loss can be promoted by including guaje in your diet. The high fiber content of the seeds helps to regulate bowel movements, while the protein and healthy fats help to satiate hunger. The guaje seeds can help you lose weight by balancing your blood sugar levels. This helps to prevent cravings and overeating, making it easier to lose weight.
12. Clears Acne
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of the guaje can help to clear acne. The seeds can be applied directly to the skin to help fight off acne-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation, and boost the production of collagen, which can help prevent acne scars.
13. Treats Bronchitis And Asthma
Because of its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, the guaje is a natural remedy for respiratory problems such as bronchitis and asthma. The tea can help to clear congestion, reduce inflammation, and relieve coughing and other symptoms.
14. Fights Aging
The antioxidants in guajes health benefits help to protect the body from free radical damage, which cause aging. The guaje can help to prevent or reduce some signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines.
15. Prevents Type 2 Diabetes And Improves Insulin Sensitivity
Studies have shown that the guaje can help you maintain blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. This can help to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.
The guaje is a powerful and nutritious plant that has many health benefits. The seeds are especially beneficial, providing a variety of health benefits including relief from coughs, gastric disorders, pain, fever, and more. The high levels of antioxidants in the guaje make it a powerful cancer-fighting agent. The plant is also a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins C and E, making it a nutritious addition to the diet.
So far, scientists have only studied a few of the potential health benefits of the guaje plant. But what they have found is very promising. For example, studies have shown that the guaje plant can improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes and help protect the liver from damage caused by alcohol abuse.
More research is needed to determine the full extent of the health benefits of the guaje plant. But it is clear that this humble legume deserves more attention. Perhaps one day it will be hailed as a “miracle plant” for its many health benefits.