Tamarinds contain no fat and are high in fibre. Research indicates that tamarind flavonoids and polyphenols can aid in weight loss when consumed regularly.
Peptic ulcers can be very painful. These are basically sores that appear in the inner lining of the stomach and small intestine. Tamarind can stop these ulcers because of the polyphenolic components it contains.
The extract from tamarind seeds has anti-inflammatory properties and is even said to help stabilise blood sugar and reverse pancreas tissue damage in people suffering from diabetes. Tamarind also contains the enzyme alpha-amylase, which has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels.
Because of its potassium, tartaric, and malic acid contents, tamarind has been used as a laxative since ancient times. It can also be used as a treatment for diarrhoea due to its ability to relax the stomach muscles.
Tamarind is an extremely heart-healthy fruit. Tamarind's flavonoids limit the production of triglycerides, a type of fat, in the blood by lowering LDL or "bad" cholesterol and raising HDL or "good" cholesterol levels.