Barnyard millet, also known as Sanwa, is a significant culinary ingredient worldwide, with its roots in the nutritious millet family. While traditionally consumed during fasting periods in India due to its high digestibility, increasing research is illuminating this grain’s health benefits, making it a substantial addition to everyday eating as well1.
A closer look at Barnyard Millet
Sanwa millet is a tiny white, seed-like grain falling under the umbrella of the millet family, also referred to as Sanwa rice1. Interesting to note, this millet has been celebrated during auspicious festivals like Navratri in India, where rice-based dishes like Kheer made from “Samvat ke Chawal,” a close relative of Sanwa, are savored1.
Barnyard millet has been recognized globally as well, exemplified by the United Nations’ declaration of the year 2023 as “The Year of Millets” and its prominence in meals during the G20 summit1.
Resistant to fungal diseases, barnyard millet serves as a valuable fodder plant. Processed on groats, these small seeds contribute to porridge production1. It carries other names such as Vari, Varai, Samwa, and Swang1.
Six Health Benefits of Adding Barnyard Millet to Your Diet
1. Regulation of Blood Pressure
Rich in Potassium, Barnyard millet plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure levels and mitigating cardiovascular risks1.
2. Promotion of Digestion
Being easy to digest and beneficial for bowel movements, Sanwa millet finds its place in the Navratri fasting diet1.
3. Rich Protein Source
Sanwa millet scores high on protein content, essential for maintaining healthy cells. Besides, it offers the bonus of being low on calories and carbs compared to other grains such as Jowar, Bajra, and Ragi1.
4. Enhancing Blood and Oxygen Flow
Owing to its rich iron content, millet plays a substantial role in producing blood cells and improving blood oxygenation1.
5. Skin and Hair Care
Barnyard Millet’s antioxidant properties contribute beneficially to skin health and aid in promoting hair growth1.
6. Nutritional Superiority
Recognizing the high protein and low carbohydrate content of millets compared to wheat and maize consummates their nutritional superiority. The barnyard millet layers are also a significant vitamin B source, making them especially beneficial for gluten-causing Celiac disease patients1.
In conclusion, Barnyard millet or Sanwa, a tiny powerhouse of nutritional benefits, is a must-add to our diet. Its myriad of benefits range from being a powerhouse of proteins and antioxidants to promoting healthier skin, hair, and digestion. As we continue to explore the virtues of this modest grain, the benefits it yields towards health may be more significant than currently anticipated.
Source:
- “What is Barnyard Millet? 6 Health Benefits of Sanwa You Must Know”, by India.com Health, source ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9 ↩10 ↩11 ↩12
