Nourishing Delights: The Benefits of Gond Ke Laddu for Women & Postpartum

Today we share with you a new recipe for our Śrī Soma Journal. A place where we share wellness practices rooted in tradition and natural remedies for our modern lives. In today's post, we dive into the world of Gond Ke Laddu - a delightful Indian sweet known for its numerous health benefits, particularly for women. But, of course, we have put a little Śrī Soma spin on these traditional delights with our addition of our Shanti Tonic. That way you can take those beautiful medicinal qualities even deeper!

A quick note for ALL women: while this post does talk a lot about postpartum, even if you aren't in this stage of life, these treats still offer much needed support for all modern women. Why? their sweetness and nutritional density support a grounded Vata dosha which is absolutely vital for good health. They promote hormonal balance and are an absolute ally during the bleeding portion of our monthly cycle.

Let's uncover why Gond Ke Laddu has been a cherished postpartum treat and why it deserves a special place in every woman's diet.

1. Nurturing Postpartum Health: Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of holistic healing, has long recognised the importance of postpartum recovery for women. Gond Ke Laddu has been traditionally consumed during this crucial phase due to its nourishing properties. Packed with essential nutrients, these laddus are believed to replenish the body, boost energy levels, and support overall well-being after childbirth. 2. Rich in Essential Nutrients: Gond Ke Laddu comprises a combination of wholesome ingredients that offer a range of benefits for women's health. The edible gum (gond) used in the laddus is a rich source of calcium and protein, essential nutrients that assist in bone strength and tissue repair. Whole wheat flour (atta) provides dietary fiber, while the inclusion of almonds, cashews, and jaggery adds healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to the mix.

3. Promotes Lactation: Breastfeeding is a vital aspect of postpartum care, and Gond Ke Laddu is known to be beneficial in promoting lactation. Certain ingredients, such as gond, have traditionally been thought to help increase milk production in new mothers. Along with a healthy and balanced diet, consuming these laddus can potentially support breastfeeding mothers in their journey. 4. Supports Hormonal Balance: The postpartum period involves significant hormonal changes as the body adjusts after childbirth. Gond Ke Laddu includes ingredients like cardamom powder, which is believed to aid in hormone regulation. Cardamom's natural properties may help alleviate mood swings and promote emotional well-being during this transitional phase, allowing women to navigate these changes with greater ease. This also makes them super supportive for women during their moon cycle each month. 5. Natural Energy Boosters: As women recover from childbirth, their bodies need consistent nourishment and a source of sustained energy. Gond Ke Laddu provides a nutritious and energizing treat that can help combat fatigue and replenish the body's reserves. The combination of ghee, nuts, and sugars in the laddus offers a quick source of calories and healthy fats, providing the stamina needed to keep up with the demands of motherhood.

Let's get into the recipe:

SHANTI GOND KE LADDU

Ingredients:

- 1/2 cup edible gum (gond)

- 1/2 cup Vedic Ghee

- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (atta)

- 1/2 cup powdered jaggery

- 2 tablespoons almonds, chopped

- 2 tablespoons cashews, chopped

- 2 tablespoons raisins

- 1 teaspoon Shanti Tonic

Instructions:

1. Heat a pan on medium-low heat and add the Vedic Ghee. Once the ghee is melted, add the edible gum (gond) and fry it until it puffs up and turns golden brown. Remove the fried gum from the pan and set it aside.

2. In the same pan, add the whole wheat flour (atta) and roast it in the ghee until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Make sure to stir continuously to avoid burning. Remove the roasted flour from the pan and let it cool.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered jaggery, chopped almonds, cashews, raisins and Shanti.

4. Crush the fried edible gum into small pieces using a mortar and pestle or place it in a ziplock bag and gently crush it with a rolling pin.

5. Mix the crushed gum, roasted wheat flour, and the sugar-nut mixture together until well combined.

6. Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into laddu (round) balls using your hands. If the mixture feels dry and not binding well, you can add a little more ghee to help it come together.

7. Repeat the process until all the mixture is used up and you have made laddus out of it.

8. Allow the Gond Ke Laddu to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Enjoy these delightful and nutritious Gond Ke Laddu as a sweet treat or as a source of energy. They can be enjoyed during your bleeding phase, as an afternoon snack {when energy is low during the Vata time of day between 2-4pm}, during winter or the post partum phase.

Gond Ke Laddu is more than just a sweet delight; it is a traditional Ayurvedic treasure that holds numerous benefits for women through every season of life. So, why not embrace this time-honored treat and incorporate it into your wellness routine? Enjoy another way to take your tonics and savour the sweetness and goodness of Gond Ke Laddu as you embark on your journey as a modern woman with continued reverence for time-honoured traditions. Remember, it's always important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or postpartum routine.