6 Amazing Health Benefits Of Kokum

Kokum is a tiny fruit that resembles a cherry tomato and is red in color which changes to deep purple on ripening. It basically grows in the Western Ghats in Goa and Konkan areas and is available in both fresh and dry varieties. The dried variety is used in a lot of dishes for its sour taste and mildly sweet smell. This little fruit is mainly used in Indian cuisines especially Gujarati, Konkani, and Maharashtrian cooking. Because of its sour taste, it is used as an alternative to tamarind in many gravies and curries. Apart from the culinary uses, there are many surprising health benefits of Kokum too.

# Helps to prevent acidity

Acidity has become a common digestive issue amongst humans of today. Thanks to our fast-paced life and mindless eating habits. The kokum pulp when consumed in the form of sherbet or drink is known to cure acidity. This fact is also supported by Ayurveda for centuries together. But be mindful of adding little or no sugar to the drink as sugar can aggravate acidity.

# Strengthens your gut

The kokum pulp is loaded with anti-bacterial properties. The anti-microbial nature destroys harmful bacteria in the gut and promotes gut-friendly bacteria. Hence, this fruit is believed to cure a lot of gastric issues, flatulence and indigestion.

# Loaded with antioxidants

Kokum is known to have an active ingredient called ‘garcinol’. This garcinol is proved to contain antioxidant properties. Antioxidants curb free radicals that are left in our body. Many health issues like cancer, heart diseases, and diabetes are due to these free radicals that float throughout our bodies. The active ingredients also help in cell regeneration and the formation of new cells.

# Good for skin

Kokum butter is believed to possess cosmetic properties and hence used to make soaps, skin lotions, and balms. It is known to heal skin rashes, blisters and also cracked heels. Applying a paste of kokum and coconut oil is known to cure cracked painful heels. Even Ayurveda supports this theory. Thus, this fruit is very good for skin.

# Promotes heart health

Kokum is known to contain a compound called ‘hydroxy citric acid’ which is believed to reduce cholesterol levels. This compound also curbs appetite which in turn prevents excessive weight gain. Therefore the lower cholesterol levels and prevention of obesity promote heart health in us.

# Cools down our body

This fruit has the amazing property of satiating thirst which in turn cools down our body. Indulging in a glass of kokum sherbet also has a great cooling effect on our body.