In winters, Tragacanth gum, Edible Gum or commonly known in India as ‘Gond’ is a popular ingredient in the sweets prepared at home and in markets like pinni, laddu, etc. the reason is that gond not only tastes good but also consists of various health benefits. It is known as the mine of medical properties. Gond is warm in nature, which is why along with keeping our body warm in winters, it also helps in boosting our immunity, which is important for fighting against several infectious bacterias and viruses entering our body.
What is Gond?
Edible gum or gond can be obtained from different types of trees and are white-brown coloured crystals. Since it is quite bigger in size, it is first roasted or fried and then ground into smaller granules to make it fit for being used in ayurvedic medicines or sweets. Gond contains many nutrients that are beneficial and its consumption provides strength to the body. It is also considered advantageous for pregnant as well as breastfeeding mothers.
Use Of Gond In Ayurveda
In the local dialects, gond is also known as Gad. It is basically the solidified form of the juices, extracted by making an incision on the tree trunk. Experts say that the tree from which the edible gum is extracted, all the properties of that tree also come in its gum are also acquired by it. Therefore, according to the properties of different trees in Ayurveda, the gum of that specific tree is used. Gum is used to make ayurvedic tablets, powder, etc.
Benefits Of Gond
- Gond increases the immunity of the body
- It keeps away the problem of shortage of blood in the body
- It is beneficial in problems like cough, sore throat, diarrhea
- Gond is also used to treat fertility related problems in men
- Consumption of edible gum is beneficial in conditions such as weak nervous system, anxiety, depression, vitamin D deficiency, etc.
- It strengthens bones
- Increases milk production in lactating mothers
- Provides moisture to the skin and keeps it healthy
- It also contains dietary fiber which helps in reducing weight
- It helps in alleviating the constant shaking and burning sensation felt in the hands and legs
- Edible gum also reduces the problem of high blood pressure
Which Tree’s Gum Is More Used?
- Babool (Acacia) tree’s gum is the most popular and highly nutritious edible gum. Apart from Acacia, the gum of kikar is also most commonly used in laddus or sweets. Apart from Acacia, the gum of Kikar is also most commonly used in laddus or sweets.
- Neem gum increases the blood flow and energy in the body. It also has medicinal properties of neem and is known as East India Gum.
- Gum acquired from the Palash helps in strengthening the bones
