Ambadi or Gongura in Telugu is a good source of folic acid and iron. It is without the side effects of constipation that come with an iron pill.
Ambadi is very easy to digest and cook. It is high in slowly digestible starch, making it an excellent vegetable to sustain and nurture the gut ecosystem.
As it is a good source of Vitamin C it eases the pain during menstruation and also prevents heavy bleeding. Consume it in the form of tea during regular periods.
The Gongura leaves are also a great way to keep your bones strong. This mineral-rich plant has calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in abundance, all of which are important for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
A diet rich in these minerals can help in preventing bone loss and conditions such as osteoporosis.
The high content of vitamin C, popularly known as ascorbic acid, plays a major role in boosting the immune system and in increasing the number of white blood cells in the body. This is also one of the reasons Ambadi/ gongura is widely consumed even during the monsoons.
Homocysteine is a common amino acid in the blood. High levels of Homocysteine is linked to early heart diseases and Renal diseases. Ambadi is an excellent source of folate and Vitamin B6 which are needed to keep the homocysteine levels low.
Ambadi is a good source of fiber which is very good to control blood sugar.Traditionally it is eaten with bhakri made of makai, jowl, bajra, and ragi which are low glycemic index combo meals.
Magnesium and Fibre present in Ambadi provide quick relief from constipation. The laxative property of this vitamin helps to relax the intestinal muscles, thus helping to establish a smoother rhythm while passing bowels.
It also has another property of attracting water, which in turn softens the stool and helps it to pass easily.