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Indian summers can sap your vitality and leave you feeling drained and sluggish. The heatwave, which means temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius or higher, is a dreaded element of the Indian subcontinent's summer season. People take additional efforts during the season to keep their bodies cool naturally and protect them from dehydration and associated ailments. Some desi fruits and vegetables are prepared specifically to replenish the body's fluid storage while simultaneously keeping it cool. Kokum is one such fruit that is particularly popular among Konkani people, including Goans.
Kokum is used as a souring agent in many Konkani curries and to make cooling drinks such as kokum juice and Solkadhi. During the summer, this is very popular with or after meals. Solkadhi, like sweet lassi or masala chaas in the Northern states of India, is a staple of Konkan summer thalis. It is served in small bowls or glasses with a variety of vegetarian curries/subzis and/or seafood. The blush pink colour Solkadhi, made from the pleasantly tart kokum fruit and coconut milk, is a treat to sip not just because of the refreshing taste, but also because it has a number of health benefits.
1. Aids Digestion
Solkadhi aids digestion by detoxifying the digestive tract. It alleviates a variety of stomach issues. It promotes meal absorption and helps to avoid acidity, gas, indigestion, diarrhoea, constipation, and gastrointestinal pain.
2. Promotes Heart Health
Kokum is thought to be an excellent heart tonic. Polyphenols found in kokum, such as hydroxy-citric-acids, help to lower triglyceride levels and the risk of coronary heart disease. Garcinol, the main chemical in kokumis believed to protect the heart, has anti-inflammatory qualities. Coconut milk's potassium level is useful for people who have high blood pressure. Coconut milk contains lauric acid, which has a positive effect on cholesterol levels.
3. Anti-cancer
The garcinol content of kokum is anti-carcinogenic, limiting the proliferation of malignant cells and thereby preventing cancer. Garcinol prevents the spread of cancerous tissue by interfering with the mutation of aberrant cells.
4. Good For Weight Loss
The hydroxy-citric acid in solkadhi causes satiety in the body, reducing food consumption. Kokum inhibits lipogenesis and functions as a fat-burning catalyst. In a health conscious world, solkadhi serves as a great option for someone who is keen on losing weight.
5. Helps Skin Health
Solkadhi's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients make the skin soft, supple, and radiant. Kokum inhibits the action of the enzyme elastase, reducing elastin degradation. The skin grows firmer and healthier as a result.
