MAKHANA (LOTUS SEEDS / FOX NUTS)

Phool makhana is the name given to popped lotus seeds used in Indian cooking. The puffed lotus seed has the bitter centre core and the outer membrane are removed, and is puffed, just as popcorn is puffed. It is a very popular food during the fasting. ‘Makhane ki kheer’ is the most popular kheer during fasting.

Makhana is superior to dry fruits such as almonds, walnut, coconut and cashewnut in term of sugar, protein, ascorbic acid and phenol content.

It is a highly nutritious, fully organic non-cereal food, which is extensively grown in the stagnant water of wetlands, tanks, ponds lakes and ditches.

Nutritive value of Makhana

100 gm makhana contains:

350kcal energy

9.7gm easily digestible protein

77gm carbohydrate

12.8gm moisture

0.1gm fat

90mg phosphorus

1.4mg iron.

Health benefits

• Makhana helps in Cardiac Protection.
• It helps in building action in dysentery, frequent urination.
• Makhana is anti-oxidant.
• It is digestive for all age groups.  Due to its astringent property, it is relieves one from diarrhea and helps improve appetite.
• 25 gram makhana a day means a healthy food/diet for the whole family.
• Lotus seeds benefit the spleen, kidney, and heart. 
• The seed also has calming properties that alleviate restlessness, palpitations, and insomnia.
• It is also rich in calcium.
• Makhana regulates blood pressure, relieves numbness and aching near waist and knees.
• It is suitable for arthritis, impotence and premature ageing.
• They are sweet to neutral in nature. They help to detoxify the spleen, reinforce the kidneys and nourish the blood. 
• It can also treat insomnia, palpitations and irritability.
• It is also recommended for the women during pregnancy and post natal weakness .It is a good galactogogue- very good for strengthening lower back muscles. 

SOME FOOD PREPARATION

The seeds (Makhana/Fox nut) can be eaten raw, cooked roasted or fried.

Makhana can be consumed as dry fruit snacks by roasting. The popped seeds of Makhana can be roasted & sprinkled with spices on it which proves a tastier, hygienic and digestive health snacks.

Homemade roasted makhana can help kids get rid of the junk chips

Makhana Kheer - made of makhana is a tasty n healthy. It can be used in Pudding and other milk based sweets etc.

Dal Makhani & vegetable curries prove delicious when makhana is spread for taste and thickening object.

Makhana raita is very tastier and it is digestive in nature.

Makhana pulav can also be tried.