What is Tara Mera Seed? The Arugula Connection
Tara mera seed refers to the seeds of the Eruca sativa plant, which is more commonly known as arugula, garden rocket, or salad rocket. The term 'tara mera' is popular in regions like Pakistan and India, where the plant is widely cultivated for its oil and medicinal properties. Unlike its leaves, which are used fresh in salads for their peppery taste, the seeds are typically processed to extract a dark, pungent oil known as taramira or jamba oil.
This small, dark seed is packed with nutrients and has a history of traditional use that predates its modern recognition. It is a highly resilient crop, thriving in low-rainfall areas, which has made it a valuable commodity in arid regions.
The Rich Nutritional Profile of Tara Mera Seed
The health benefits associated with tara mera seed stem from its dense nutritional composition. Scientific analysis has shown the seeds contain significant amounts of protein, oil, and various minerals.
- Vitamins: The seeds are rich in vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins, including folate, thiamin, and riboflavin. Vitamin K is crucial for bone health, while vitamins C and A act as powerful antioxidants that support cell growth and immune function.
- Minerals: A 1985 study found high levels of calcium and potassium in the seeds. They also contain iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, all vital for various bodily functions.
- Antioxidants and Fatty Acids: The oil from tara mera seed is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and potent antioxidants. Flavonoids present in the seed help reduce inflammation and promote heart health by improving blood flow and reducing cholesterol buildup.
Diverse Applications in Wellness and Cuisine
The uses of tara mera seed are extensive, ranging from topical applications in traditional remedies to culinary uses. The extracted oil, though pungent and acrid when fresh, can be aged to mellow its flavour for cooking.
Traditional Medicinal and Skincare Uses
- Hair and Scalp Health: Taramira oil is a popular choice for treating hair and scalp issues in traditional medicine. Regular massage with the oil is believed to strengthen hair, reduce hair loss, and stimulate growth. Its antifungal properties also make it effective against dandruff.
- Skin Nourishment: The oil is used topically to soothe and moisturize the skin, helping to alleviate dryness and improve elasticity. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can assist with issues like acne and inflammation.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Traditionally, the oil is massaged onto the skin to relieve joint pain and improve circulation.
Culinary Applications
- Cooking Oil: After a period of aging to reduce its acridity, taramira oil can be used as a cooking oil or salad oil, particularly in the Indian subcontinent.
- Pickling: The oil's strong, pungent flavour makes it a suitable ingredient for pickling in some regional cuisines.
- Pungency Enhancer: In some cases, it is mixed with mustard oil to enhance its pungency, catering to regional tastes.
Tara Mera Seed vs. Other Oilseeds
To better understand the unique characteristics of tara mera, it helps to compare it with other common oilseeds. While all have valuable properties, their flavour profiles, primary uses, and cultivation methods differ.
| Feature | Tara Mera Seed (Eruca sativa) | Mustard Seed (Brassica spp.) | Sesame Seed (Sesamum indicum) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flavour Profile | Pungent, peppery, and acrid (can be aged) | Pungent and spicy | Nutty and mild |
| Oil Use | Cooking, massage, medicinal, pickling | Cooking, pickling, condiment base | Cooking, flavouring, garnishing |
| Drought Resistance | High | Varies by species, generally moderate | Low to moderate (needs irrigation) |
| Traditional Medicine | Widely used for hair, skin, and inflammation | Used for joint pain, congestion, and skin issues | Used in Ayurveda and traditional remedies |
| Cultivation | Primarily West Asia, Pakistan, Northern India | Global, particularly temperate regions | Global, especially Africa and India |
Cultivation and Sustainable Use
As a drought-resistant crop, tara mera offers a sustainable alternative for oilseed production in arid climates. It can provide a useful cash crop in areas where soil fertility and rainfall are low. After the oil is pressed, the remaining seed cake serves as a protein-rich animal feed, further reducing waste and creating value. The resilience of the plant also means it is less vulnerable to insect attacks at maturity. This makes tara mera seed not only a healthy product but also an environmentally conscious one.
Conclusion
In summary, tara mera seed, the oilseed derived from the arugula plant, is a potent and versatile ingredient with a long history of traditional use. Its rich nutritional content, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, provides a wide array of health benefits for hair, skin, and overall wellness. Whether consumed as oil or used topically in traditional remedies, this powerful seed offers a natural path to enhanced health. As a drought-resistant and useful crop, it stands as a testament to nature's ability to provide sustenance and healing, even in challenging environments. The next time you encounter arugula, remember the powerful, multifaceted seed from which it originates.
Learn more about the botanical details of this plant on its Wikipedia page: Eruca sativa.
