A sharp, tangy flavour and deep purple colour defines kokum. The fruit is native to India’s Western Ghats and is used extensively in the cuisine of the region. Mainly used as a souring agent, kokum has made its way into both dishes and drinks. It is essentially a summer fruit that has a host of health benefits. We list five health benefits of consuming kokum:
It helps with weight loss
Kokum rind is high in hydroxy citric acid, which is a compound that helps lose weight naturally. It burns excess fat through oxidation and also helps you feel full for a longer time so that you don’t have the urge to snack or eat more. Kokum contains no fat and a negligible amount of calories. When combined with a balanced diet and a regular workout regime, kokum can help with weight loss to a great extent.
It cools and hydrates
Being a summer fruit, kokum is often used to make sharbat, which prevents heat strokes and dehydration. The fruit has cooling properties that help regulate body heat. It is refreshing and helps replenish lost body fluids, which contributes to that energised and active feeling, even when summer is at its peak. Kokum sharbat is a tasty drink that can help cool down the entire body.
It can elevate mood
The humble kokum fruit can increase serotonin levels in the body (serotonin is a hormone that enhances mood and contributes to that cheerful feeling). When serotonin levels increase, the brain is stimulated and that helps keep stress and negative emotions at bay. Kokum can help calm the mind, ease anxiety, and uplift your mood when you are feeling low.
It is good for the digestive system
Kokum has been considered good for digestion for a long time. It also soothes acidity and burning sensations in the stomach caused by indigestion. According to Ayurveda, when the kokum fruit is dried and made into kokum juice, it enhances the digestive fire and can be used as a natural remedy to improve digestion.
It is rich in nutrients
Kokum has been known to improve overall health as it is rich in nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin B3, vitamin C and minerals like iron, calcium, manganese, potassium, and zinc. The fruit also contains folic acid, ascorbic acid, acetic acid, hydroxy citric acid, and fibre. All these nutrients help in strengthening immunity, aid weight loss, and make kokum a nourishing fruit.
