Spirit Food – Kidney Beans
ORIGIN
Kidney beans originated in South and Central America as a result of migrating Indian traders who brought kidney beans with them from Peru. These beans were introduced into Europe in the 15th century by Spanish explorers returning from the New World. Spanish and Portuguese traders introduced kidney beans into Africa and Asia.
Due to the beans being a very inexpensive form of good protein, they have become popular in many cultures throughout the world.
Edible beans have had religious associations for millennia. The ancient Egyptians held the red kidney bean sacred. The Jewish high priest was forbidden to eat beans on the Day of Atonement and they are also a feature of Jewish mourning feasts.
Beans were thrown to the spirits of the dead when the ancient Roman feast of Lemuria was held in the month of May.
Bean soup is eaten to commemorate the dead on All Souls Day in Austria.
In Taiwan, bean cakes are eaten at the August full moon ceremony.
New Year’s luckiness is associated with red kidney beans in many parts of the world including Europe, where the beans are eaten.
CHAKRA – ROOT
PHYSICAL BENEFITS
Kidney beans provide slow-burning complex carbohydrates which help increase your energy and the high iron content replenishes your iron stores. If you are pregnant, lactating or menstruating, your needs for iron increase. Growing children and adolescents also have increased needs for iron. This is a good food to help with anaemia.
The high manganese content assists in energy production and the antioxidants present to defend against anti-ageing and help to fight diseases.
The complex carbohydrates and dietary fibre in kidney beans lower cholesterol levels in the blood. The insoluble dietary fibres add bulk to your stool, which ensures a smooth bowel movement and helps in relieving constipation. When the right quantities are consumed they can also help to cleanse the digestive tract, ensuring removal of toxins from the body and lowering the risk of colon cancer.
The good source of potassium, magnesium, soluble fibre and protein help reduce hypertension. Together these elements help in maintaining normal blood pressure.
Vitamin B6 helps in tissue growth and repair of the skin and hair. It helps to prevent any sort of degeneration of the eye and even helps in stopping hair falling out.
The high copper content in kidney beans reduces inflammation in the body which in turn can help to aid arthritis. Copper also ensures flexibility of the ligaments and joints.
These hearty beans are a good source of protein, and when combined with a whole grain such as brown rice they provide a complete protein comparable to that of meat or dairy foods.
The high protein in kidney beans help with muscle and tissue repair, these are a wonderful addition to aid an active lifestyle.
SPIRITUAL BENEFITS
Red kidney beans represent wisdom, love, and healing across the globe.
The bean has a long history of being associated with fertility and reproduction. Beans have long been known to hold magical properties.
Kidney beans help to ward off evil spirits and protect against dark energy. They give strength to relationships and help connect you to divine healing powers.
CONNECT WITH KIDNEY BEANS
Soak the beans in water for a few hours to activate certain enzymes to help with the reduction of flatulence caused by the beans.
Add to salads and soups.
Kidney beans can be used the same way as chickpeas are used to make hummus. Create a spicy kidney bean dip for a strong dose of protein and iron.
Kidney bean burgers are a fun way of connecting to the beans.
Wholesome vegetarian chilli always goes down a treat.