Coix or Job’s tears are a type of branched grass with broad leaves. Found in India, Pakistan, China, Malaysia and Sri Lanka, it is well known for its health benefits.
Contents
Uses
Coix seeds were introduced in China in the first century A.D. by a Chinese general who conquered Tongking, where the grains were widely used as a cereal. The general became so fond of them that he carried back many cartloads of the seeds to his own country. Also, the seeds have long been used in making rosaries and African shaker gourds.
Benefits
- After the husks of coix seeds are removed, they are used to treat ailments of the lungs, large intestines, spleen and stomach. The seeds are sweet and mild in flavor.
- Traditional natural medicines make use of coix to encourage the passage of water in the body. It is diuretic in nature and promotes proper flow of urine. It also helps in treating swelling due to water retention.
- Herbal practitioners use coix to alleviate digestion problems, abdominal bloating, constipation and diarrhea.
- Many prescriptions use coix to relieve arthritis and rheumatism.
- Chinese medicine commonly uses coix to treat diseases of the lung, abscesses in the lungs and appendicitis.
- Medicines made with coix help to draw fluids away from the skin and thus help to relieve swelling and inflammation caused by mastitis. Coix is also helpful in encouraging lactation in women.
- Some studies have found that coix is effective in treating infection beneath the nails. It is known to stimulate the immune system and help in getting rid of the contaminated cells.
- Coix seeds are antiseptic and anti-inflammatory in nature and thus help in treating fevers. The seeds are also known to reduce spasms, control blood sugar levels and serve as a mild, natural sedative.
Cautions
Consumption of these seeds might decrease blood sugar levels. Diabetes drugs are also used to lower blood sugar, hence taking Job’s tears along with diabetes drugs might cause your blood sugar to go too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely. Consult your doctor, the dose of your diabetes medication might need to be changed.
Other Names
Job’s-tears, Adlay Millet, Yi Yi Ren, Chinese Pearl Barley, Soft-shelled Job’s Tears, Coix ma-yuen, Lagrimas de Job, Coix Lachrymal, Coix lacryma-jobi, Yi Hato-mugi
References
Source: Home Remedies, http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com/herbs/coix.html
Your Health Remedy, http://www.yourhealthremedy.com/medicinal-plants/jobs-tears-coix-seed-nutritional-facts-health-benefits/
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