Known as Traganth gum, Gond Katira is derived from the sap of plants called "Locoweed." This crystallized herb is celebrated for its cooling properties and various health benefits. Historically, it has been utilized in Ayurvedic medicine to treat ailments like coughs. Gond Katira is an odorless and tasteless jelly-like substance.

Gond Katira is commonly employed as a base ingredient in condiments, salad dressings, sauces, and mayonnaise. It's also used to thicken ice creams, create pudding and laddoos, and decorate cakes.

Nutritional Information of Gond Katira

Gond Katira is an excellent source of dietary fiber and natural prebiotics, which are effective in reducing body heat significantly. It contains essential macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.

Nutritional Value Per 100 grams of Gond Katira:

• Calories: 70
• Total Fat: 86 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 30 g
• Protein: 9.51 g
• Sodium: 9 g

Detailed Benefits of Gond Katira

1. Cooling the Body and Preventing Heat Strokes
   One of the main benefits of Gond Katira is its ability to act as a cooling agent, especially useful during summer. It helps keep the body cool even in extreme heat. It's a popular ingredient in refreshing summer drinks like shikanji, milkshakes, and ice creams. Regular consumption can help prevent heat strokes.

2. Promoting Healthy Digestion
   Rich in dietary fiber, Gond Katira aids in regulating intestinal movements and digestion. It ensures smoother bowel movements and helps combat digestive issues such as constipation and diarrhea. However, for optimal benefits, it is advised to consume Gond Katira with water to avoid any adverse intestinal effects.

3. Benefits for Women During and Post-Pregnancy
   Post-pregnancy, women often experience exhaustion. Gond Katira can significantly aid in this period by enhancing milk production for lactating mothers and providing essential nutrients needed during pregnancy. It helps restore lost energy and strength, also aiding in mental rejuvenation.

4. Enhancing Skin Health
   Clear, glowing skin can be achieved through diet rather than cosmetics. Gond Katira, rich in antioxidants, helps purify blood vessels and regenerate skin cells, resulting in clear, radiant skin free of dark spots, acne, and wrinkles. It provides the necessary nourishment to make the skin appear youthful and healthy.

5. Improving Sensual Vigour in Males
   Known for its aphrodisiac properties, Gond Katira can help males regain sensual vigor and address performance issues and involuntary discharge. Consuming it daily in milk with dry fruits and berries can yield its full benefits. It's also beneficial for conditions like low sperm count and erectile dysfunction.

6. Boosting Immunity
   Gond Katira is referred to as a "wonder herb" due to its rich nutrient profile. Its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties help in nerve cell regeneration. Additionally, it aids in regulating blood pressure and sugar levels, bolstering the body's defense mechanisms against infections and diseases.

7. Aiding in Weight Loss
   For those pursuing weight loss, Gond Katira can be a valuable addition to their diet. Its high energy content facilitates calorie burning and metabolism, while its dietary fiber helps keep one full and reduces cravings. Consuming it before or after workouts can enhance energy levels and aid in burning more calories.

8. Relieving Joint Pains
   Rich in magnesium and calcium, Gond Katira is essential for strong bones and teeth. It can be consumed or applied as a paste to joints to strengthen joint muscles and alleviate pain, proving especially beneficial for adults dealing with chronic joint pain.

Also Read- BENEFITS OF GOND KATIRA

Other Uses of Gond Katira

Beyond health benefits, Gond Katira has various applications:

• Used in floral sugarcraft for cake decorations.
• Commonly added to ice creams, sherbets, puddings, sauces, and confectionery to improve texture and consistency.
• Found in cosmetics and personal care products like creams, lotions, and toothpaste as a binding and thickening agent.
• In the paper industry, it serves as a sizing agent that enhances paper quality.
• In the textile industry, it is used for stiffening fabrics, especially cotton and silk.

Other Names: Katheera, Haloosiyaa, Katila, Indian or Country Tragacanth, Gomme Adragante, Cochlospermum gossypium-Gummi, Kutira-Gummi, Katira Gond, Katira, Barugadamara, Cochlospermum gossypium DC, Koon, Katira, Gond Katira, Astragalus Gummifer, Kathira, Chahar Gond, Ktira, Dhawade, Dhavade, Dhawde, Dhavde, Laddu, Laddu, Badaam, Katiraa, Katila, Ela-imbue-Kini Hi Riya, Shiraz gum, Shiraz, gum elect, and gum dragon, Badami Gum, Dhavdi Gond, Gond Katira, Tragacanth Gum, Cochlospermum gossypium, Gondkatira, Kateera, Chahar Gond, Almond Gum, Badam Pisin, Badam Gond, Gond Kattira, Kathera Gond, Dhavda Gond, Dhawda Gond, Kattera, Katera Gond, Gond Qatira, Arabic Gum, Dink, Dhawadi Gond, Gondh Katira, Gond Khatira, Gaund, Gound, Karaya Gum