Phool Makhana or Fox Nuts is quite commonly used specially during fasts in India. It is used as an ingredient in several food recipes including sweet dishes. In addition to being an popular ingredient in recipes, makhana can also be consumed as a nutritional and super healthy snack. Makhanas are low in cholesterol and are an extremely good source of magnesium, potassium, manganese, protein and phosphorus. Being low in calories, makhanas promote weight loss, while the calcium content makes them extremely good for the bones. Makhana are very good for controlling blood pressure, detoxification of the body and improving digestive health.
Some basic facts about phool makhana
- Phool makhanas are highly nutritious, versatile and easy to add to your diet
- 40 % of phool makhana is grown in one place in Bihar, Madhubani and Darbhanga
- Phool makhana is found in stagnant water (pond)
- Phool makhana shouldn’t be confused with lotus seeds as they different from one another
- They are collected, washed, sun dried and then roasted to pop as the shell breaks
Nutritious Value 20 grams phool makhana
- Calories : 75
- Protein : 2 grams
- Carbs : 15 grams (mostly fibre)
- Low glycemic index
- Gluten free and contain calcium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, iron and zinc
- Low in sodium and cholesterol
- Low in saturated fat
- Phool makhanas are loaded with flavonoids and phytochemicals
Ayurvedic properties
- Taste : Sweet
- Potency : Cold
- Quality : Heavy and oily
- Balanace and pacify : Pitta and vata, may aggravate kapha
Health benefits
- High in nutrition like fibre and protein
- Low in calories
- High in antioxidants and are anti inflammatory
- Rich in anti aging flavonoids like kaepferol and enzymes which help repair protein structure within the body
- Have calming effect, reduces insomnia, fatigue and restlessness
- Good for heart and are high in potassium and magnesium
- Help strength bones as the are rich in calcium and phosphorus
- Makhanas help improve cognitive functions are high in thiamine and also improves physical strength and stamina
- They are safe to be used by pregnant women, nursing mothers and kids
- Phool makhanas are very good for male reproductive health
- They support uterus health and increase fertility in women
- Phool makhanas reduce the sign of PMS and regulates periods in women
How much in a day ?
- Recommended dose of phool makhana is 5 to 30 grams in a day
- Average safe amount is 10-20 grams daily
How to consume ?
- Phool Makhana are almost tasteless, which means you can prepare them in a number of ways
- They can be dry roasted or roasted in ghee or coconut or olive oil
- Enjoy them with pink salt and spices or with jaggery, cinnamon, nutmeg or with dark choclate
- They can be added in kheer, in curd and in curries as well
- Phool makhana can also be consumed as smoothie and energy balls
- You can also enjoy them as morning cereals, ladoos and namkeen
Side effects of excessive use
- If consumed in high amount it can cause constipation
- May cause bloating and gas as well
- May lower blood sugar to dangerous levels
- May lead to weight gain if consumed in high amount\
- It should not be used by people with high kapha parivarti, chances are low but watch out for allergies
- Bioaccumulation of heavy metals like chromium, lead, cadmium and copper in water can cause toxicity