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Veliyath Gardens

Yellow Sweet Kokum (Garcinia Indica) live plant

Regular price 500.00
Regular price Sale price Rs. 500.00
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Plant Type

Yellow Sweet Kokum (Garcinia indica) – The Golden Treasure of the Western Ghats

Botanical Name: Garcinia indica
Common Names: Yellow Sweet Kokum, Golden Kokum, Yellow Kokum

A Rare Tropical Gem

Yellow Sweet Kokum is a lesser-known but highly treasured tropical fruit native to the Western Ghats of India. This exotic fruit, prized for its sharp sweet-tangy flavor, turns a bright golden-yellow when fully ripe. Unlike the common deep-purple kokum, this variety is milder, with a balance of sweetness and acidity that makes it a versatile culinary and medicinal ingredient.

Local and Regional Names

  • India: Amsol, Ratamba, Murugala (Kannada)

  • Sri Lanka: Goraka

  • Indonesia & Malaysia: Asam gelugur

  • Thailand: Som Kaek

Health Benefits and Nutritional Value

Rich in nutrients and medicinal properties, Yellow Sweet Kokum has been used for centuries in Ayurveda and traditional healing systems.

  • Packed with Essential Vitamins: Contains Vitamin A, Vitamin B3, and Vitamin C, which boost immunity, improve skin health, and aid digestion.

  • Mineral-Rich: Loaded with calcium, iron, manganese, potassium, and zinc, supporting bone health and overall vitality.

  • High in Antioxidants: Contains hydroxy citric acid (HCA), ascorbic acid, and flavonoids that help combat oxidative stress.

  • Aids Digestion: Known for its ability to soothe acidity, regulate metabolism, and promote gut health.

  • Weight Management: The hydroxy citric acid (HCA) helps regulate appetite and supports fat metabolism.

  • Supports Cardiovascular Health: Studies suggest it helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels and supports heart function.

Culinary Uses and Taste Profile

Yellow Sweet Kokum offers a delightful combination of sweetness with a tangy undertone. The dried rind, much like the traditional kokum, has a sour, slightly metallic taste with a hint of sweetness and is widely used in regional cuisines.

  • Beverages: A cooling summer drink known as Kokum Sherbet is made from the fresh or dried fruit.

  • Culinary Seasoning: Used as a souring agent in curries, dals, chutneys, and seafood dishes.

  • Pickles & Preserves: Its naturally acidic properties make it ideal for pickling and jams.

  • Confectionery: Infused into desserts like sorbets, jams, and jellies.

Cultivation and Maintenance

  • Growth Conditions: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with well-drained, slightly acidic soil.

  • Watering Needs: Requires moderate but consistent moisture, with proper drainage.

  • Time to Fruit: Begins to bear fruit in 2 to 3 years after planting.

  • Maintenance Level: Moderate – occasional pruning and fertilization enhance fruit production.

  • Pest & Disease Resistance: Naturally resistant to most common pests due to its high acidity and antioxidant content.

Cultural and Traditional Significance

  • Used in Ayurveda for centuries to treat digestive ailments, acidity, and inflammation.

  • Traditionally consumed in summer to prevent dehydration and heatstroke.

  • The dried fruit rind has been used in tribal medicine to heal wounds and infections.

How to Preserve and Store

  • Fresh Fruit: Can be stored in a cool, dry place for a few days.

  • Dried Peels: Sun-dried and stored in airtight containers for extended use.

  • Pulp Extract: Can be frozen and used in drinks and culinary preparations year-round.

Adding Yellow Sweet Kokum to Your Life

Whether as a refreshing drink, a health supplement, or a key ingredient in traditional recipes, Yellow Sweet Kokum brings a unique blend of taste and wellness to your diet. If you are a tropical fruit enthusiast or an advocate of natural remedies, this golden fruit is a must-have addition to your garden and kitchen.

Conclusion

Yellow Sweet Kokum is more than just a fruit—it is a powerhouse of nutrition and an integral part of tropical heritage. Its delightful taste, combined with exceptional health benefits, makes it a valuable addition to any garden or diet. Embrace the golden kokum and experience the wonders of nature’s goodness!


Planting and Care

Growth Conditions: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with well-drained, slightly acidic soil.

Watering Needs: Requires moderate but consistent moisture, with proper drainage.

Time to Fruit: Begins to bear fruit in 2 to 3 years after planting.

Maintenance Level: Moderate – occasional pruning and fertilization enhance fruit production.

Special Feature

Mineral-Rich: Loaded with calcium, iron, manganese, potassium, and zinc, supporting bone health and overall vitality.

High in Antioxidants: Contains hydroxy citric acid (HCA), ascorbic acid, and flavonoids that help combat oxidative stress.

Aids Digestion: Known for its ability to soothe acidity, regulate metabolism, and promote gut health.

Weight Management: The hydroxy citric acid (HCA) helps regulate appetite and supports fat metabolism.

Uses/Benefits

Fresh Fruit: Can be stored in a cool, dry place for a few days.

Dried Peels: Sun-dried and stored in airtight containers for extended use.

Pulp Extract: Can be frozen and used in drinks and culinary preparations year-round.