Kodo millets or Magical millets are the must-have millets in your meals. Kodo millet grains are annual grains ranging from light red to dark grey. Among all millets available, it is well known for the highest drought resistance and produces high yield in a short duration thus is of great economic value. India is the world leader in the production of kodo millets, and thus its cultivation is of great economic significance
Kodo millet is repository of nutrients, a great substitute for rice and wheat. With a whopping 11% protein for every 100 grams, it is also a rich source of fibre at 10 grams, 66.6 grams of carbohydrates, 353kcal, 3.6 grams of fat, besides impressive presence of calcium, iron, polyphenols and various other nutrients. (Source: Wikipedia)
Let me tell you that these tiny grains might be heroes for your gallbladder! Kodo millets, thanks to their high fibre content, have the potential to avoid the formation of gallstones.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
In my knowledge, kodo millets with their abundance of nutrients, have been found to have great benefits. They’re not just for filling your plate; they might actually help with inflammation, haemorrhages (excessive bleeding), and general weakness.
Dr. Smita barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.
I have read in a research paper that the dried ethanol extract of kodo millet husk, when consumed, may have interesting effects on both animals and humans. It has been observed that this extract might cause a calming effect, leading to tranquillity, in various animal species. Additionally, when a human volunteer took the extract, they also experienced possible drowsiness.
Dr. Anuja Bodhare, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
Also Recommended by Isha Foundation, Sadhguru
Benefits, Nutrition
Ancient Indian medicine ayurveda classifies Kodo millet as langhana, which means bringing lightness to the body and is included under the category of Trina Dhanya Varga – (grains that are produced by grass like plants). It is termed as a wholesome food, prized for its medicinal, therapeutic and culinary properties and is recommended for diabetics, to beat fatigue, heal wounds faster. Being cold in nature, it increases vata dosha but balances issues caused due to kapha and pitta doshas.
For Lipid profile
Hyperlipidemia is the elevation in lipid components like triglycerides, total cholesterol and reduced levels of high-density lipoprotein. Study showed that kodo millets helped reduce total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein and caused a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein.
For bacterial infections
consumption of kodo millets may have the potential to manage bacterial infections
For type-2 diabetes
Type-2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterised by an increase in blood glucose due to decreased production or resistance to a hormone called insulin which regulates blood glucose. kodo millets might have the potential to decrease blood glucose levels. This effect is attributed to polyphenols, which inhibit enzymes that break down carbohydrates into simpler sugars and increase blood glucose. Additionally, kodo millets have a low glycemic index. Therefore, kodo millets may have the potential to manage type-2 diabetes.
For Cancer
The anti-cancer effect is attributed to the presence of phenolic acids, phytic acids and tannins in the grain. This indicates that kodo millets may reduce the risk of certain cancers
For Malnutrition
Malnutrition is defined as the deficiency, excess or imbalance in the intake of energy and/or nutrients. The term malnutrition addresses 3 broad groups of conditions:
- Undernutrition
- Micronutrient-related malnutrition
- Overweight
Kodo millets are highly nutritious due to the presence of carbohydrates, proteins, dietary fibres, vitamins like niacin, riboflavin and minerals like calcium, iron and phosphors. Kodo millets are also rich in antioxidants and phenolic compounds like vanillic acid, gallic acid, tannins, ferulic acid etc.
Other benefits of foxtail millets:
- In Ayurveda, kodo millets have been used to provide relief from joint pain.
- Kodo millets may help in irregular menstrual cycles. High potassium content in kodo millets may help reduce abdominal cramps during the menstrual cycle. However, the exact mechanism behind these benefits has yet to be fully understood.
- Being a rich source of dietary fibers, kodo millets may help in managing constipation by improving bowel movements.
- Kodo millets also help in weight loss, by increasing satiety due to the presence of fibres and proteins, which reduces overeating.
- Kodo millets are rich in a protein called collagen, which increases the elasticity of the skin and may help in reducing wrinkles.
- Kodo millets are loaded with prebiotic fibres, which may help improve gut health.
