Introduction
Munakka, also called black grape raisins in English, is a fruit with immense medicinal value. The leaves, seed, skin of Munakka and the whole fruit contain health benefits. Munakka is effective in balancing Vata and pitta doshas in the body. Dry grapes or Munakka are packed with nutrients and calories. Munakka (raisins) are initially green in color and darken as they are dried, resulting in a dried, dark-colored fruit having small seeds.
Nutritional Value of Munakka:
Munakka is rich in sugars (glucose and fructose), vitamins (ascorbic acid, riboflavin, thiamin, pyridoxine), dietary fibers, and minerals (zinc, phosphorous, iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium). Munakka also contains different types of phytochemicals (plant-derived compounds) like flavonoids, resveratrol, epicatechins, phytoestrogens, and hydrocinnamic acids. In 100 grams, the below are the nutrients found in munakka:
| Total Fat 0.3g | 0 % |
| Saturated Fat 0.1g | 0 % |
| Sodium 26mg | 1 % |
| Total Carbohydrate 79g | 29 % |
| Dietary Fiber 4.5g | 16 % |
| Sugar 65g | |
| Protein 3.3g | 7 % |
| Vitamin D 0mcg | 0 % |
| Calcium 62mg | 5 % |
| Iron 1.8mg | 10 % |
| Potassium 744mg | 16 % |
Therapeutic Uses of Munakka:
Munakka is used for a variety of health conditions due to their medicinal properties such as:
- Anti-oxidant properties
- Laxative properties
- Antibacterial properties
- Appetite regulating property
- Anti-inflammatory properties
Benefits of Munakka
Benefits of Munakka for Gastrointestinal health:
- Munakka contains dietary fiber which helps absorb natural fluids in the body. This adds volume to the food moving down the intestinal tract resulting in regular bowel movements and relief from constipation.
- The fibers also help in eliminating harmful toxins from the body.
- Munakka might also be beneficial in improving colon function.
- Munakka might also reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
Benefits of Munakka for Anemia:
- Due to its iron content, munakka could help in anemia.
- Munakka also contains vitamin B complex which is required for producing red blood cells.
Benefits of Munakka for Dental Health:
- Munakka contains calcium which might help strengthen and remineralize tooth enamel.
- They might help decrease dental decay. This is due to certain compounds present in munakka that help inhibit oral pathogens.
- The anti-oxidant nature of munakka can help in eliminating bacteria that are responsible for dental caries and cavities.
- Munakka also contains antibacterial properties that help prevent dental caries.
Benefits of Munakka for Bone Health:
- Calcium is the main constituent of bones and is present in munakka.
- Boron is a nutrient that is essential for proper bone formation and enhanced calcium absorption. Munakka contains boron and hence, might be effective in preventing osteoporosis due to menopause in women.
- Munakka also contains potassium which may help enhance bone growth, also decreasing the risk of osteoporosis.
Benefits of Munakka for Skin:
- Munakka contains vitamin C and antioxidants that might help maintain glowing and youthful skin.
- It also contains antioxidant properties that are helpful in bacterial infections and may also prevent psoriasis and acne.
Benefits of Munakka for Hair:
- Having munakka daily can help you have a head full of lustrous, thick hair due to its vitamin C content. .
- Munakka also contains anti-inflammatory properties that might be effective against dandruff and irritation.
Benefits of Munakka for the Heart:
- Munakka helps lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels resulting in a lower risk of heart disease.
- The fiber content in munakka might reduce low density or bad cholesterol.
- Low potassium levels in the body may cause high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease.
- Munakka is a good source of potassium and can help improve heart health and prevent these heart conditions.
Benefits of Munakka for Weight Loss:
- Due to its composition, munakka ensures a better diet quality, and having it before a meal could help regulate appetite in healthy individuals who have an average weight.
- Munakka might modulate hormones influencing satiety resulting in reduced hunger and dietary intake which can be useful to maintain a healthy body mass.
Benefits of Munakka for Piles:
- Constipation is one of the main causes of piles or hemorrhoids.
- Munakka contains laxative properties that are effective in cases of constipation.
Benefits of Munakka for Infertility:
- Munakka contains an amino acid called L-arginine which is known to boost sexual performance. This amino acid improves sperm motility and increases the chances of pregnancy.
- L-arginine also improves the blood flow to the uterus and ovaries.
- It also helps manage erectile dysfunction.
Benefits of Munakka for Dental Health:
- Having Munakka might prevent teeth against dental caries. Munakka contains phytochemicals that help stop bacterial growth that lead to dental caries.
- The phytochemicals also prevent bacteria from sticking on the tooth surface.
How to Use Munakka:
Munakka is available in three forms:
- Munakka capsules
- Raw Munakka
- Munakka decoction (kwath)
Your Ayurvedic physician will prescribe you the form and dosage according to your health condition.
Side Effects of Munakka:
When taken in large amounts, Munakka can result in side effects due to its rich nutrient content.
Stomach Discomfort
Munakka is a great source of fibers. Excess intake of fiber can lead to digestive problems like cramps, bloating, and gas formation.
Weight Gain
Munakka contains a lot of calories and when taken in large amounts, it might result in excessive weight gain.
Diarrhea
Munakka has a high fiber content. Having it in excess amounts might result in diarrhea.
Diabetes
Although Munakka is a healthy snack, having it in excess can result in weight gain and a risk of developing diabetes.
Allergy
Some individuals might experience allergic reactions to Munakka. It is important to visit a doctor when symptoms like wheezing, diarrhea, and breathing difficulties are evident.
Precautions to be Taken With Munakka:
- Raisins contain natural sugar like any other fruit. They also have a high glycaemic index. Hence, it is best to consume them in moderation to prevent a spike in blood sugar levels.
- Munnaka contains nutrients like potassium, phosphorous, and calcium that are beneficial in supporting fetal growth. However, it is essential to consume them in limited amounts to prevent any complications.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1) Is Munakka and Kishmish the Same?
Munakka and kishmish contain different nutritional values. Kishmish is yellow in color and Munakka is brown in color. Kishmish does not contain any seeds while Munakka has seeds.
2) Can Munakka be Used for Acidity?
A diet low in potassium and magnesium might result in acidity. Munakka is a great source of magnesium and potassium. Hence, adding Munakka to your daily diet might help prevent acidity. 1
3) Can Munakka be used to boost energy?
Munakka contains a lot of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals like phosphorous which might help in the uptake of other nutrients in the body. Hence, adding Munakka to your diet could enhance your energy and boost your immunity.
4) Can Munakka be used for restoring liver function?
Yes, Munakka contains liver protective and regenerative properties. This may be due to its phenolic content.
5) How many raisins can you consume in a day?
The ideal portion of raisins that can be taken for a healthy, balanced like is 40g. This can protect you from type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.
6) When can babies start eating Munakka?
Babies can start having Munakka after 18 months. Munakka and other dried fruits are a choking hazard for babies below 12 months of age.
7) Can Munakka be used for cough?
Yes, Munakka could help treat cough due to its cough suppressant activity. It might also help relieve any irritation in the throat.