Jackfruit is plentiful in the market now. Bangladesh's national fruit is as nutritious as it is tasty, and not only its flesh but its seeds too hold a range of health benefits and healing properties.

One hundred grams of jackfruit seeds contain 185 calories, along with 7 grams of protein, 38 grams of carbohydrate and 1.5 grams of fibre, and less than 1 gram of fat.

In this season, jackfruit seeds are an ideal food for meeting the body's nutritional needs cheaply. They contain high levels of protein, potassium, calcium, zinc, iron, phosphorus and dietary fibre. Here is how jackfruit seeds help protect health.

The anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties of jackfruit seeds boost immunity. Research has found that bioactive compounds in the seeds can fight various bacterial and fungal infections. Eating jackfruit seeds regularly is especially helpful for protection from waterborne diseases and infections in the monsoon.

The iron in jackfruit seeds plays an important role in producing haemoglobin, which helps carry oxygen in the blood. The magnesium and potassium they contain help control blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. Iron is also essential for brain cell function, strengthening memory and cognitive function.

The high fibre content relieves constipation and speeds digestion. It acts as a prebiotic, helping beneficial gut bacteria grow. For diarrhoea or indigestion, dried and powdered jackfruit seeds act as a natural remedy.

The vitamin A in jackfruit seeds is very important for the health of the retina. It prevents night blindness and helps reduce the risk of eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts.

Rich in protein, jackfruit seeds help build muscle and increase strength. As a low-cholesterol protein source, they are an ideal snack for those trying to lose weight, and their zinc and phosphorus support healthy bone and muscle development.

The antioxidants in jackfruit seeds, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, reduce free radical damage to the skin, helping to erase signs of ageing and wrinkles. A paste of jackfruit seeds with milk and honey applied to the face makes the skin soft and bright, and their vitamin C boosts collagen production to keep the skin elastic.

The vitamin A in jackfruit seeds strengthens hair roots and prevents hair loss, while protein and iron help produce keratin, reducing brittle hair and split ends.

Jackfruit seeds are very effective against iron-deficiency anaemia. By boosting haemoglobin production they ensure oxygen reaches every cell, relieving fatigue and weakness.

Micronutrients in jackfruit seeds, such as magnesium and the vitamin B complex, improve nervous system function. They help reduce stress and anxiety by keeping neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine in balance.

In various Asian countries, jackfruit seeds are used as a natural aphrodisiac; their zinc and iron help improve reproductive health in both men and women. Jackfruit seeds also relieve dry skin by providing natural moisture, and help reduce eczema, acne and other skin infections.

To get these benefits, jackfruit seeds can be boiled or fried and added to snacks, or powdered and used in soups, smoothies and other dishes. A seed paste can be used in skin care to restore brightness naturally. So in jackfruit season, include not just the fruit but its seeds in your diet.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.