Time and again, a lot of scientific studies have found that berries are super beneficial for our health. There are so many varieties of berries that are available in the market. Most of these berries are extremely rich in antioxidants, which is why they are extremely beneficial to our body as well as our outer skin. There are specific kinds of berries that can significantly impact our brain and heart health for the better. India also has a diverse variety of berries that are naturally found in different parts of the country. Read on to shed light on the many varieties of berries that are found in India and what they contribute to the benefit of our health.
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* Gooseberry
Gooseberry is also called Amla in Hindi. Most people are already acquainted with the fact that it is a very rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Gooseberries are green in colour and have a translucent kind of texture. These are extremely fibrous and also have the properties to strengthen and stimulate a new system. Any person who has a problem with passing stools can start consuming gooseberries regularly and see changes in the body. On top of everything, the consumption of gooseberries is extremely beneficial for our hair, skin, nails and eyesight.
* Cape Gooseberry
Cape Gooseberry is also called Rashbhari in India. This is one of the easiest berries to cultivate in India because it is used to growing in different kinds of climates and can adapt very easily. This Gooseberry is sometimes a bit sour and sometimes extremely sweet. It comes in the shape of small balls that are orange and extremely lustrous from the outside. These berries are very rich in soluble pectin fiber that helps in the prevention of constipation and also lowers bad cholesterol levels in the body. It is a delicious snack, and instead of eating anything unhealthy, you can easily eat this and satiate your evening cravings.
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* Strawberry
Most of you will be surprised to know this, but there are more than 20 varieties of strawberries that are grown throughout India. Strawberries are very rich sources of potassium, folate, magnesium, vitamin C, and flavonoids. Also, the seeds present on the exterior surface of strawberries have small quantities of omega-3 fatty acids present in them. The presence of so many vitamins and antioxidants in strawberries make it friendly for our immune system. They're delicious and can be paired with so many desserts and fruit salads.
* Zara Berry
Zara Berry is dominantly found in Goa and the nearby regions. You will find this very abundantly available in the local markets of Goa. This has a blackish-purple kind of fruit with green seeds on the inside. The fruit has a very sweet flavour and even the inner seeds of the fruit are considered a very special delicacy in Goa. The natives of Goa like to call it a local substitute for jamuns because the outer appearance is almost the same. Also, the presence of antioxidants in both of these fruits is kind of similar. The flavonoids present in Zara Berry are believed to control blood pressure, and diabetes and also keep a check on cholesterol levels.
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* Mulberry
Mulberry is not only refreshing but also quite succulent. In India Mulberry is very famously known as shahtoot. Mulberry is naturally found in the warmer regions of the country. You will find that mulberry is dominantly grown in Karnataka because of the suitable climate. Mulberry was used asa medicinal fruit in ancient times among the Indian people. A tonic made from Mulberry is also believed to protect the whole body against any damage that happens to the eye. Mulberry is rich in several nutrients and vitamins including protein, calcium, fibre, iron and vitamins like E, C, K and E.
* Grape
Grapes are also classified as berries. There are so many different kinds of grapes that are grown in India and Maharashtra is the largest producer of grapes in India. Depending upon the region, you will see a variation in the type of grapes that are cultivated in different parts of the country. Grapes are generally very high in vitamin K, potassium, fibre and vitamins like B1, B2, and B6. Also the organic acid and sugar content present in grapes provide it with laxative properties.
These are some of the most commonly and abundantly available berries found in India.