Kokum (Rinds) - Kokam - Wild Mangosteen - Mangustaan - Malabar Tamarind - Brinda - Kudampuli - Garcinia Indica by IndianJadiBooti

The sun-dried kokum rinds (Garcinia Indica) are dark in color and introduce a sweet and sour taste when added to dishes. Rich in nutrients, kokum is classified as a Superfood. It helps alleviate acidity, enhances digestion, cools the body, lifts the mood, and supports weight loss.

Kokum Rinds can replace tamarind to bring a tangy flavor to food. To make kokum tea, soak organic kokum in water. For the traditional Konkan drink 'sol kadi', cook it with tadka and coconut milk. Kokum can also be used wet in curries and dals or even in desserts.

Kokum, a plant used for both culinary and medicinal purposes, is known for its potential appetite-suppressing properties. It may also help prevent cancer and protect brain health. Besides its culinary uses, kokum is commonly made into refreshing sherbets. Found primarily in India's Western Ghats, kokum is a staple in the cuisines of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and the coastal states of Southern India.

The small, round fruit is dark purple, primarily acidic, and resembles the taste of cranberries. Kokum’s health benefits are abundant. It can be consumed raw or as juice, and sun-dried kokum is often used as a souring agent or additive in various dishes.

Health Benefits of Kokum Rinds

1. Antifungal and Antioxidant Properties: Kokum Rinds has properties that help prevent infections. It serves as both an antifungal and an antioxidant and can be used as a preservative.

2. Abundant Nutrients: Kokum Rinds is rich in essential nutrients and vitamins. It contains malic acid, citric acid, carbohydrates, B-vitamins, ascorbic acid, manganese, potassium, dietary fiber, and garcinol, beneficial for both pregnancy and fetal development.

3. Aids Digestion: Kokum Rinds can help alleviate digestive issues such as dysentery and constipation.

4. Anti-Aging Properties: The antioxidants in kokum improve the texture of hair and skin and have anti-aging effects, aiding in cell repair and regeneration.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Kokum Rinds' health benefits include treating inflammation. It can be applied to sores, allergies, rashes, and burns.

6. Ayurvedic Applications: In Ayurveda, kokum is used to treat cracked heels and reduce rheumatoid pain. It is beneficial for bowel issues, ear infections, sores, menstrual delays, intestinal parasites, and inflammatory conditions.

7. Cholesterol Control and Weight Loss: Kokum Rinds are free from saturated fats and low in calories, making it effective in managing cholesterol levels and aiding weight loss. It is especially beneficial for heart patients.

8. Cooling Properties: Due to its cooling effects, kokum is ideal for consumption during the summer. Kokum sherbet refreshes and energizes, helping prevent dehydration and strokes.

Other Names: Wild Mangosteen, Goa Butter Tree, Kokam, Mangustaan, Malabar Tamarind, Brinda, Kudampuli, Vrikshamla, Amsul, Punarpali, Ratamba, Garcinia indica, Birondd, Birondi, Kokummara, Dhupadamara, Kokan, Murgalmera, Murgal, Ratamba, Amsole, Amasul, Punampuli, Brindonia tallow tree, Mangosteen oil tree, Wild mangosteen, Gambooge, Garcinia Cambogia, Brindle Berry, Gamboge, Gambodge, Goraka, Fish Tamarind, Brindleberry , Cambodge, Garcinia Cambogia, Vrikshamla, Brindal Berry, Pot Tamarind, Garcinia Gummi Gutta