If you grew up in North India, you likely recall savoring glasses of shikanji or milkshakes infused with gond katira during the scorching summer months, often accompanied by your grandmother's endorsement of its health benefits in keeping you cool and refreshed.
The summer of 2024 has brought gond katira (also known as tragacanth gum) into the limelight, especially on Instagram. The platform is buzzing with Reels featuring this 'summer superfood', where influencers enthusiastically advocate its myriad health advantages. Some claim it enhances skin radiance, others tout its effectiveness in alleviating joint discomfort, while many extol it as a remedy for constipation.
These odorless, translucent crystals transform into a thick gel upon soaking in water for several hours. This gel is then incorporated into lemon water, milkshakes, or smoothies.
While Instagram may be newly enamoured with this gum, it has long been revered in Indian households as a trusted herbal remedy for summer ailments. Derived from the sap of the Astragalus tree, gond katira holds a significant place in Ayurvedic medicine due to its natural properties.
But is it truly as beneficial as claimed? Health experts assert its merits.
Cooling Properties
Clinical nutritionist Lovneet Batra underscores its cooling effects. "Gond katira is renowned for its cooling properties, making it an excellent natural remedy to lower body heat during hot weather," she tells India Today.
Dr. Vikas Jindal, a gastroenterology consultant at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, adds that it aids in controlling summer nosebleeds due to its cooling attributes.
Digestive Benefits
Gond katira positively influences digestion. It is rich in fiber, facilitating relief from constipation.
Nutritionist Batra concurs, noting that "it acts as a prebiotic, supporting digestive health by fostering the growth of beneficial gut bacteria."
Dr. Jindal further explains its role in maintaining hydration and managing digestive issues. "It is effective in both constipation and diarrhea. Mixed with curd, it alleviates diarrhea; with milk, it aids in constipation," he says.
Skin Nourishment
Experts highlight gond katira's advantages for skin health. While claims of acne eradication on social media may be exaggerated, its hydrating properties contribute to skin elasticity.
Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj, a dermatologist based in Delhi, emphasizes its antioxidant content and benefits for skin issues. "With its antioxidants, it addresses concerns like wrinkles and aging. Suitable for both summer and winter use," she tells India Today.
Lovneet adds that it helps combat acne, diminish wrinkles, and promote a radiant complexion due to its moisturizing and healing effects.
Joint Support
Health specialists suggest gond katira may alleviate joint pain and inflammation owing to its anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding arthritis sufferers.
Dr. Santosh Shetty, from the Surana Group of Hospitals in Mumbai, highlights its calcium content and anti-inflammatory attributes. "It contains essential calcium for bone health and strength. Calcium is crucial for bone density," he explains.
"Its anti-inflammatory properties may reduce inflammation in bones and joints," he adds.
Caution in Consumption
However, moderation is key when consuming gond katira. Experts recommend mixing the gel with water or milk rather than ingesting it directly.
Lovneet advises soaking gond katira crystals in water for 6-8 hours before consumption. "Take one tablespoon of the gel mixed in a cool beverage," she suggests.
Precautions
Experts caution against gond katira consumption for pregnant women, children under five, and individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Lovneet notes that post-pregnancy, women can benefit from gond katira to enhance strength and stamina. "Traditionally used to boost energy levels and vitality postpartum," she explains.
Delightful Ways to Enjoy Gond Katira
There are numerous ways to incorporate the goodness of gond katira into your diet. With its neutral taste, you can blend it into flavorful beverages and desserts.
Simply mix soaked gum into:
- Lemon water
- Milkshake
- Aam panna
- Rose milk sherbet
Or add it to desserts like kheer for a wholesome treat.
