Exotic foods can be exciting, delightful and full of adventure. A bite of something new can be a marvellous experience. While many may remember these kinds of food for the taste, they also have loads of healing properties than can beneficial for our health. From being soothing on the skin to tacking with stress, certain exotic foods can be very healing. Here are few you need to try to get the most out of it.

Cupuacu is an exotic fruit from a tropical rainforest tree in South America. It is widely known for its medicinal properties. It popularly used to make juices and desserts due to its sweet taste. However, it is also packed with nutrients like antioxidants, essential fatty acid, vitamins, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, and fibres. It may help to give your immune system a boost and help you maintain good health. It is also available as a fruit powder.

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Kukicha is a popular beverage in Japan that is made with stems, stalks and twigs. It has a nutty and sweet flavour. Drinking acup of this drink - tea or juice form - will do your body a lot of good as it is a rich source of antioxidants and calcium. It may also help reduce acidity.

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Spirulina is a type of floating bacteria cultivated in Chad. While it may seem bizarre to have on this list, it is actually loaded with vitamins and protein that is beneficial for your health. Some suggest it can help give your immune system a boost and help in the body's detoxification process. You can use it in many dishes or consume it in juice form.

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In olden days milk thistle was used to treat patients who had consumed some harmful type of mushrooms. These days it is used to treat people who suffer from liver diseases and problems. "A compound in the seeds, which you can find in capsule or extract form, strengthens and clears the liver," says an expert. Basically, it can help protect your liver.

Calendula is popularly used in topical treatments as it can sooth the skin without causing any irritation. It has been found to have a soothing effect on those who suffer from eczema. "Many cosmetic creams that promise to smooth, soothe, or soften skin contain calendula. It's also sold as an oil, which will be diluted by a 'carrier' oil such as olive, jojoba, or coconut oil," Michael Balick, an ethnobotanist and vice president and director of the Institute of Economic Botany at the New York Botanical Garden, told a news portal. A natural way to treat an insect bite is by heating some of the calendula flowers in water and then applying the water on the affected area with a cloth.

Kava root is loaded with compounds called kavalactones. Many believe these compound can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. "Kava is said to promote easy conversation and storytelling, and to help resolve conflict, all of which helps hold Pacific Island communities together," Michael Balick, an ethnobotanist and vice president and director of the Institute of Economic Botany at the New York Botanical Garden, told a news portal. Adding, "The initial effects are similar to alcohol but without the negative side effects—people on kava are mellow and calm, not aggressive."

Chamomile is well known for its calming properties, which is why many choose to consume at night to unwind. "A soothing and calming herb, chamomile tea is a wonderful way to unwind at night," Michael Balick, an ethnobotanist and vice president and director of the Institute of Economic Botany at the New York Botanical Garden, told a news portal. Adding, "It helps you relax and can relieve tension in an upset stomach after a stressful day." This plant can also help tackle puffy eyes, as well as reduce inflammation.

If you have the flu or not feeling your best, consume elderberry. "Elderberry is my favourite 'flu season plant,'" Michael Balick, an ethnobotanist and vice president and director of the Institute of Economic Botany at the New York Botanical Garden, told a news portal. Adding, "The herb contains anti-viral compounds, which research has shown can help the body fight off illness." Consume elderberry extracts if you have the flu or if as a preventative measure.