Phalsa is a type of berry that is found in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and many other Southeast Asian tropical countries. This berry is grown specifically during the summertime as it has a very brief fruiting period. The fruit also doesn't have a very long shelf life, so it has to be consumed promptly; otherwise, it goes bad. Phalsa is considered an exotic fruit in India and is famous for its many health benefits. Taste-wise, many people find their taste to be similar to grapes.
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They are sweet and sour and a little bit tarty also. One of the most remarkable features of this fruit is the fact that it has a high amount of water and is a great source of natural hydration. In India, phalsa is generally grown in states like Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana. Some other states where it is sparsely cultivated include Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Here are some of the top benefits of eating phalsa.
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* Cooling Effects
As per a study published in the Heliyon Journal in 2024, any beverage made of phalsa or the fruit itself has cooling effects on the body as it is in water naturally. One can make a lot of cooling drinks and natural sharbat by mixing the juice made of this fruit with some ice cubes and a little bit of honey. This luscious fruit is the perfect choice for summer as it will help bring down the temperature of the body.
* Antioxidants
One of the major health benefits of consuming phalsa is the fact that it's extremely high in a variety of antioxidants, including vitamins. As per a study published in Heliyon in 2024, phalsa contains vitamin A and vitamin C in a considerable quantity. Other than having antioxidants, the fruit also has anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects on the body. The antioxidants in the fruit are found in the form of flavonoids and tannins.
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* Phalsa
The best part about phalsa is the fact that it is extremely rich in different types of nutrients and minerals like phosphorus, iron, calcium, and different types of vitamins. At the same time, the fruit is low in carbohydrates and fats, which makes it the perfect choice for somebody who is trying to eat healthy and avoid unnecessary calories, even in the form of fruits. The fruit also has 18 different types of amino acids, which makes it even more beneficial for health. As per a study published in Heliyon in 2024, the high amount of minerals present in this fruit helps in reducing the chances of cardiovascular disorders in the body.
* Restores Electrolyte Imbalance
As stated above, phalsa is a great source of different types of minerals like iron, calcium, and phosphorus. This also makes it a great source of restoring electrolyte balance in the body. Being rich in potassium, phalsa can help in improving enzyme function and muscle activity in the body. It is also a great source of hydration as it is naturally high, so having it as the first thing in the morning is the right way to start the day. One can also have this fruit just before the workout to get the right boost of energy.
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* Treats Anemia
As phalsa is quite rich in iron, one of the most considerable health benefits of this fruit is the fact that it can help in treating any kind of iron deficiency. As per a study published in Molecules in 2016, iron is present in the highest concentration in phalsa, the lowest being cobalt. Instead of taking multiple medicines to cure the problem of iron deficiency, one can incorporate this fruit into one's everyday life and rely on its perpetual consumption to cure the problem of iron deficiency.
* Curing Respiratory Problems
As per a study published in the Molecules Journal in 2013, phalsa can also help alleviate problems related to inflammation in any part of the body. It can also help with problems related to respiration, heart, and blood pressure or blood circulation in the body. In fact, in ancient Indian medicine, the fruit was used to cure a lot of health-related problems, including respiratory diseases. It is important to understand that this fruit is not going to cure one's respiratory problem, but it can be a great natural remedy to avoid a disease or provide relief to the body.