Foxtail Millets: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More

Introduction

Foxtail millets, magical millets, or miracle grains are natively known as Kangni, Kang, and kakum. These are tiny seeds covered in a thin, crispy hull and are available in a light yellow brownish colour.

The cultivation of millets (Setalica italia) began in 8000 BC in China¹. In India, these are widely grown in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. Foxtail millets have a sweet and nutty flavor and are eaten as instant foods, ready-to-eat products, rice flour, etc. Apart from the culinary uses, it is a farmer-friendly (as it requires less water and other factors for cultivation) and health-friendly (due to its nutritional value) crop. Let us learn more about the health benefits of adding foxtail millets to your dietary routine.

Nutritional Value of Foxtail Millets

Foxtail millets are packed with the goodness of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins A and E, and minerals like phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sodium, etc. The nutrients in foxtail millets per 100 g are mentioned below²:

• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Protein: 12.3 g
• Dietary fiber: 8 g
• Fat: 4.3 g
• Phosphorus: 290 mg
• Potassium: 250 mg
• Magnesium: 81 mg
• Calcium: 31 mg
• Sodium: 4.6 mg
• Iron: 2.8 mg
• Zinc: 2.4 mg
• Copper: 1.4 mg

From my perspective, foxtail millet might be a cost-effective alternative to animal protein foods. Its flour and protein concentrate may have excellent functional properties, making it versatile for various food applications. This might even open up the potential for developing affordable, protein-rich functional food products that can help manage lifestyle-related chronic diseases.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Properties of Foxtail Millets

Scientifically proven properties of foxtail millets include:

• It is shown to have antioxidant properties³.
• It can offer glucose-lowering properties⁴.
• It has gastro-protective (managing or reducing injuries to the gastrointestinal tract) properties⁵.
• It may show anti-carcinogenic properties⁶.
• It can potentially fight fungal infections⁷.

Let me tell you a little secret. The nutrients found in foxtail millet might have special powers that can help ward off certain non-communicable diseases. By including foxtail millet in our diets, we may give our bodies the nutrients they need to stay healthy and avoid these diseases.

Dr. Smita Barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.

Potential Uses of Foxtail Millets for Overall Health

Some of the potential benefits of foxtail millets are described as under:

1. Potential Uses of Foxtail Millets in Diabetes

Some studies state that the occurrence of diabetes can be lowered by including whole grains like foxtail millet in your diet. A self-controlled clinical trial by Ren et al. (2018) found that foxtail millet has a low glycemic index, and daily consumption over 12 weeks significantly reduced fasting blood glucose and post-meal blood glucose levels in people with impaired glucose tolerance. Foxtail millet appeared to gently stimulate pancreatic β-cells (which produce insulin) without causing sharp blood sugar spikes⁴. Other lab research has also found that foxtail millet supplementation can improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. This indicates that consuming foxtail millet may help manage diabetes. However, more human trials are needed to support the claims obtained from animal experiments and in-vitro studies.

2. Potential Uses of Foxtail Millets in Hypertension

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a leading risk factor for many cardiovascular diseases. Hypertension is usually managed with drugs which work by relaxing the blood vessels that helps in reducing the blood pressure. It is believed that substances exerting similar effects are also found in food sources like foxtail millet. Chen et al. conducted a study in 2017 stating the consumption of foxtail millets caused a reduction in blood pressure in hypertensive rats. This indicates that the consumption of foxtail millet can have a positive impact on blood pressure⁸. Moreover, these grains help balance blood cholesterol levels, thereby being overall beneficial for heart health. However, we need more studies to support these claims.

3. Potential Uses of Foxtail Millets in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon and the rectum, located at the lower end of the digestive system. Literature suggests that the intake of whole grains or cereals can contribute to a lower risk of colorectal cancer. A study done by Zhang et al. in 2020 to assess the effects of foxtail millet on colorectal cancer showed that the ingestion of foxtail millet positively impacted colorectal cancer in mice⁹. They contain antioxidants which prevent free radicle damage to gut cells. Plus, they are rich in fiber and nutrients that are overall helpful in supporting digestive health. This suggests that consuming foxtail millets may have a protective role in colorectal cancers. However, we need more clinical studies to prove these claims.

4. Potential Uses of Foxtail Millets for Fungal Infections

To date, many chemical compounds obtained from plants have been shown to positively impact fungal infections. An experiment done by Wentao et al. in 2011 identified a novel antifungal protein molecule in foxtail millets, which is known to show activity against fungi like Botrytis cinerea and Alternaria alternate, responsible for allergies and asthma. Foxtail millets may inhibit the growth of these fungi and, thus, show antifungal activity against these species⁷. This indicates that foxtail millets may have the potential to manage fungal infections, but we need more clinical studies to support these claims.

5. Potential Uses of Foxtail Millets in Under Nutrition

Undernutrition (insufficient energy and nutrient intake are broadly divided into stunting, underweight, wasting, and micronutrient deficiencies. The main cause of undernutrition is a deficiency in nutrient intake. Seetha et al. conducted a meta-analysis in 2022, stating that adding millets to the diet may help improve undernutrition due to the presence of nutritional components like methionine (an essential amino acid), calcium, protein, zinc, etc. The findings of this study¹⁰ support the use of foxtail millets as a solution to undernutrition. However, more studies should be conducted in humans to ascertain these claims.

I recommend including foxtail millet in your diet to enjoy the benefits of a well-functioning digestive system. Foxtail millet, just like other millets, is packed with a type of fibre that is good for your body. This fibre is called crude fibre. One of the great things about crude fibre is that it might aid in the process of digestion and encourage smooth bowel movements. This means that foxtail millet may act as a natural laxative, promoting a healthy digestive system.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

6. Other Potential Uses of Foxtail Millets

• Foxtail millets are a rich source of iron, which is required for the formation of hemoglobin, thus an increased iron intake may help manage iron-deficiency anemia¹¹.
• The presence of insoluble fibers in foxtail millets reduces the risk of gallstones by reducing the production of bile acids (end products of cholesterol metabolism) and decreasing bile cholesterol levels¹².
• The fiber content in millets aids bowel movements and may provide relief from constipation³.

Though there are studies that show the benefits of foxtail millets in various conditions, these are insufficient and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of these grains on human health. 

I stumbled upon a study that showed the extract from foxtail millet may reduce inflammation. In the study, they induced swelling in the mice’s hind legs using a substance called carrageenan. When the mice were administered a foxtail millet extract, the swelling potentially went down. This suggests that foxtail millet might have natural anti-inflammatory properties. However, more studies are required to validate these results.

Dr. Anuja Bodhare, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

How to Use Foxtail Millets?

Foxtail millets can be used to make several dishes such as:

• Foxtail millets are used to prepare foxtail millet kheer, an Indian dessert.
• Famous south-Indian style lemon rice is also prepared using foxtail millets.
• Foxtail millet can also be ground into flour and used to make bread, roti, and cakes¹.

While foxtail millets are generally healthy to be consumed as a part of a balanced diet, remember to not overdo and consume in moderation.

Side Effects of Foxtail Millets

Geberally, foxtail millets are safe to consume. However, a few side effects related to foxtail millets include:

• Gaitan et al. conducted a study in 1989 that showed that foxtail millets are rich in C-glycosyl flavones which produce goitrogenic effects (inhibition of thyroid hormone production), which can eventually lead to goitre or enlarged thyroid¹³.
• Although foxtail millets are gluten-free, the content of B Vitamins is low, and a diet lacking other essential nutrients might lead to some deficiencies.

If you experience any adverse reactions to foxtail millets, it is advised to discontinue its intake and immediately contact a doctor. They will be able to guide you appropriately for your symptoms.

Precautions to Take with Foxtail Millets

Eating foxtail millet is okay if taken in moderate amounts. However, general precautions must be followed in the following conditions:

• Millets contain anti-nutrients like phytic acid and tannins, which may be reduced by soaking. Additionally, soaking can increase the absorption of nutrients.
• Consume as a part of a balanced diet in moderation.
• If you have an existing health condition, are pregnant, or are already taking medication, consult your doctor or nutritionist before including in routine diet.

Interactions with Other Drugs

There is no significant interaction of foxtail millets with other drugs. However, you must always seek the advice of your dietician or doctor about the possible interaction of foxtail millets with other drugs and follow the prescription thoroughly, as they will know your health condition and other medications you are taking.

Conclusion

Foxtail millet is a nutrient-dense, gluten-free grain that has been a part of Indian diets for centuries and continues to gain attention as a versatile, farmer-friendly crop. Early research points to a range of potential benefits, from blood sugar and blood pressure support to antioxidant and gut-protective properties. This means foxtail millet can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet, but it should not be treated as a replacement for prescribed medical treatment for any condition. As with any dietary change, it’s best to consult your doctor or a qualified nutritionist, especially if you have an existing health condition, are pregnant, or are already taking medication, to understand how foxtail millet fits into your individual dietary needs.

Also Read: Talmakhana: Uses, Benefits and Side Effects by Dr. Smita Barode

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. Mohanan MM, Vijayakumar A, Bang-Berthelsen CH, Mudnakudu-Nagaraju KK, Shetty R. Millets: Journey from an Ancient Crop to Sustainable and Healthy Food. Foods. 2025;14(10):1733. doi:10.3390/foods14101733. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/14/10/1733
2. Hariprasanna K. Foxtail millet: Nutritional importance and cultivation aspects. Indian Farming. 2023; 73 (01): 47-49. https://epubs.icar.org.in/index.php/IndFarm/article/view/132571
3. Abedin MdJ, Abdullah ATM, Satter MA, Farzana T. Physical, functional, nutritional and antioxidant properties of foxtail millet in Bangladesh. Heliyon. 2022;8(10):e11186. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11186. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36339997/
4. Ren X, Yin R, Hou D, et al. The Glucose-Lowering Effect of Foxtail Millet in Subjects with Impaired Glucose Tolerance: A Self-Controlled Clinical Trial. Nutrients. 2018;10(10):1509. doi:10.3390/nu10101509. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30326632/
5. Lin HC, Sheu SY, Sheen LY, Sheu PW, Chiang W, Kuo TF. The gastroprotective effect of the foxtail millet and adlay processing product against stress-induced gastric mucosal lesions in rats. J Tradit Complement Med. 2020;10(4):336-344. doi:10.1016/j.jtcme.2020.01.003. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32695650/
6. Shan S, Niu J, Yin R, et al. Peroxidase from foxtail millet bran exerts anti-colorectal cancer activity via targeting cell-surface GRP78 to inactivate STAT3 pathway. Acta Pharm Sin B. 2022;12(3):1254-1270. doi:10.1016/j.apsb.2021.10.004. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35530132/
7. Xu W, Wei L, Qu W, et al. A novel antifungal peptide from foxtail millet seeds. J Sci Food Agric. 2011;91(9):1630-1637. doi:10.1002/jsfa.4359. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21445868/
8. Chen J, Duan W, Ren X, et al. Effect of foxtail millet protein hydrolysates on lowering blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Eur J Nutr. 2017;56(6):2129-2138. doi:10.1007/s00394-016-1252-7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27344669/
9. Zhang B, Xu Y, Liu S, et al. Dietary Supplementation of Foxtail Millet Ameliorates Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer in Mice via Activation of Gut Receptors and Suppression of the STAT3 Pathway. Nutrients. 2020;12(8):2367. doi:10.3390/nu12082367. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32784751/
10. Anitha S, Givens DI, Subramaniam K, et al. Can Feeding a Millet-Based Diet Improve the Growth of Children?—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2022;14(1):225. doi:10.3390/nu14010225. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35011100/
11. Anitha S, Kane-Potaka J, Botha R, et al. Millets Can Have a Major Impact on Improving Iron Status, Hemoglobin Level, and in Reducing Iron Deficiency Anemia-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Nutr. 2021;8:725529. Published 2021 Oct 14. doi:10.3389/fnut.2021.725529. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34722606/
12. Gitika Chaudhary, Acharya Manish Ji, Richa, Ritesh Kumar Srivastava. Holistic management of Gallbladder Stones (Pittashmari): A Case Study. J Ayurveda Integr Med Sci. 2025;9(12):339-346. doi:10.21760/jaims.9.12.46. https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/4130
13. Gaitan E, Lindsay RH, Reichert RD, et al. Antithyroid and goitrogenic effects of millet: role of C-glycosylflavones. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1989;68(4):707-714. doi:10.1210/jcem-68-4-707. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2921306/

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