GOLDEN BENEFITS OF DRINKING KOKAM-COLA

Abstract

Kokam fruit can be viewed as a wonder berry that has a pleasant, tangy-sweet taste and a myriad of health benefits. This exotic fruit is a native of Sahyadri Mountain range of Western India. Kokam (Garcinia indica), grows on ornamental fruit trees and does not require irrigation, spraying or fertilizers. Since Kokam tree is disease- and pest-free, it provides a sustainable source of lively-hood for several families and small rural farmers. Kokam fruit is a popular condiment used in several states of India for making vegetarian and non-vegetarian preparations, including the popular ‘solkadhi’. Kokam has culinary, medicinal as well as industrial uses. Most commonly used part of the plant is the fruit of Kokam. Kokam is loaded with B-complex vitamins, and minerals like potassium, manganese and magnesium, which help control heart rate and blood pressure, offering protection against stroke and coronary heart diseases. This versatile super fruit has long been used to combat digestive problems such as indigestion, flatulence, acidity and constipation. It enjoys popularity as a cool and refreshing drink in the sweltering summer heat. Kokum- cola would thus make a better cold-drink than coca-cola. Kokam fruit possess useful anti-oxidant, chelating, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, cardio-protective and anti-ulcer activities. This review article encompasses the phytoconstituents, traditional uses and medicinal properties of Kokam.