Health Benefits of The Indian Sherbet Berry

Overview

Indian Sherbet Berry, also known as Phalsa, is a native fruit to India and Pakistan. It is popularly consumed as a refreshing drink during the summer times in India. In addition to being tasty, phalsa is a great source of vitamins and generous amounts of trace minerals and is digestible.

Nutritional Value of Phalsa

The nutritional value of 100 grams of Phalsa is given below:

• Calories – 72
• Carbs – 20g
• Protein – 1g
• Cholesterol – 0mg
• Vitamin A – 37%
• Vitamin C – 24%
• Fibre – 21g
• Dietary fibre – 4g
• Sugar – 14g
• Fat – 0g
• Sodium – 17mg
• Potassium – 372mg
• Calcium – 13%
• Iron – 8%

Health Benefits of Phalsa

Manages Blood Sugar Level

Phalsa can help in regulating blood sugar levels because of its low glycemic index. This is specifically advantageous for people with diabetes, as it can assist in preventing blood sugar spikes and dips. The anthocyanin compounds present in the Phalsa improve insulin sensitivity and lessen inflammation in the body.

Filled With Nutrients

Phalsa is loaded with essential nutrients, including iron, vitamin C, calcium and phosphorous. Vitamin C is a potential antioxidant that assist to boost the immune system, safeguard cells from the harm caused by free radicals, and support wound healing. Iron is crucial for the formation of RBCs, whicle phosphorous and calcium are needed for healthy teeth and bones.

Promotes Digestion

Phasa is a powerhouse of dietary fibre, that assists in digestion and preventing constipation. The fibre content in the fruit helps in bulk up the stool, making it easier to move through the digestive tract. It also support the growth of healthy gut becteria, which can enhance digestion and boost overall health.

Treats Anemia

Phalsa is loaded with iron, this mineral is responsible for monitoring synthesis as well as a smooth flow of blood, between tissues and organs in the body. During anaemia eating ripe fruit assist in increasing iron levels as well as fighting dizziness and fatigue.

Increases Heart Health

Phalsa is filled with antioxidants, which shields the heart from harm causing free radicals. It also possess compounds called flavonoids, which lowers the risk of heart disease. Moreover, phalsa has potassium, which is vital for managing healthy blood pressure levels.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The anti-inflammatory characteristics of Phalsa can help lower the inflammation in the body. The polyphenols present in the phalsa lowers inflammation in the body and safeguard against chronic disease. 

Regulates Electrolyte Imbalance

Being inherently high in sodium content, phalsa plays an important role in balancing key ions, namely potassium, sodium and chloride, in the bloodstream. Hence, it efficiently controls the transmission of impulses through nerves for positive enzyme function and muscle activity and regulates the electrolyte imbalance.

Alleviates Joint Pain

The antioxidant present in phalsa alleviate severe pain in bones, osteoporosis, and in situations of arthritis and also helps to enhance the mobility of joints.

Cooling Effect

Phalsa has high water content, which makes phalsa a choice in summer, for cooling the heated up body, both on a day as well as during illnesses. 

Treats Respiratory Problems

Consuming the juice of phalsa fruits, along with lemon and ginger essence, is a great curative technique for calming irritating instances of the lungs like in bronchitis, asthma and cold and cough.

Traditional Uses of Phalsa

• Phalsa juice, along with carom seeds, when warmed, helps to relieve stomach pain.
• Phalsa juice may assuage burning in your chest, eyes and stomach.
• When mixed with rose water and sugar, it is said to provide relief from nausea and vomiting.
• Warm Phalsa juice with rock salt and ginger even helps with respiratory issues and sometimes even with hiccups.

How to use Phalsa fruit?

• Phalsa fruit can be eaten raw or ripe or as a juice.
• Phalsa fruit is also used to prepare jellies, jams, chutneys and squash.

Side Effects of Phalsa Fruit

• Excessive consumption of Phalsa may cause your blood glucose level to drop extremely low.
• Phalsa fruits are filled with tannins, and the overconsumption of foods rich in tannins may lead to oesophageal cancer.
• Phalsa is high in flavonoids; excessive consumption can elevate the risk of a few cancers.

Interactions with Other Drugs

Avoid taking phalsa fruit and diabetic medicines together; the interaction between them may cause blood glucose to drop too low.

The interaction between lipid-lowering medication and Phalsa fruit can cause lipid levels to fall too low. 

Precautions

Allergies: Few individuals are allergic to Phalsa fruit. If you have experienced an allergy to berries or similar fruits, it is best to avoid eating Phalsa.

Oxalate Content: Phalsa possess oxalates, which may lead to the formation of kidney stones in affected individuals. If you have a history of kidney stones or are exposed to them, it is recommended to moderate your intake of Phalsa. 

Pesticide Residues: Like other fruits, phalsa may be treated with pesticides during cultivation. It is recommended that the fruit be washed fully before consuming it to eliminate potential pesticide residues. Instead, you can choose for organic or pesticide-free Phalsa.

Nil Waste

All the parts of the Phalsa tree can be utilized, hence nothing goes waste. Its strong wood is used to make golf stick shafts and spear handles. The shoots of the trees are necessary for basket weaving. The high fibre content in the tree bark is good for making ropes and utilized in the clarification of sugarcane juice. Lastly, the fruit is a popular delicacy enjoyed by many people.

Recipe For Phalsa Sherbet

Ingredients

• 1/2 Kg Phalsa fruit
• 2 Litres Water
• 2 Tsp Ground Cumin Seeds
• 2 Tsp Rock Salt
• Jaggery or Sugar or Kishmish or Dates for sweetness
• Fresh Mint Leaves for garnishing

Method:

• Start by immersing the phalsa in water for 30 minutes.
• Proceed by separating the fruit from the water by straining it. 
• Take the fruit and crush it to remove the seeds.
• Mix the water with rock salt, ground cumin and jaggery.
• Allow the mixture to cool in the refrigerator, and once chilled, garnish it before serving. 

Conclusion

Phalsa can be eaten in many ways and is a dexterous fruit that can be utilized in a variety of cuisines. Its flavour and multiple health advantages make it a favourite summer beverage.

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