ICE APPLE : A Rare Indian Fruit

ICE APPLE : A Rare Indian Fruit

What is ICE APPLE :

Ice apple, also known as Nungu in Tamil, Taal in Bengali, Tari in Hindi, and Taari in Marathi, is a tropical fruit that is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is a round-shaped fruit that is about the size of a tennis ball and has a hard, woody outer shell.

Inside the shell, there is a translucent, jelly-like pulp that is sweet and refreshing. The pulp is high in nutrients and has a cooling effect on the body, which is why it is popular in the summer months.

Ice apple is typically consumed fresh, either on its own or as an ingredient in desserts, smoothies, and juices. The fruit is highly perishable and has a short shelf life, so it is usually sold in local markets and consumed soon after it is harvested.

Uses of ICE APPLE :

Ice apple has several uses, both culinary and medicinal. Here are some of the common uses of ice apple:

Culinary use: Ice apple is a popular ingredient in many Indian and Southeast Asian desserts, such as kulfi, falooda, and lassi. It can also be added to smoothies and juices for a sweet and refreshing taste.

Cooling effect: Ice apple has a cooling effect on the body, which is why it is popular in the summer months. It is believed to help regulate body temperature, prevent dehydration, and relieve heat stroke.

Nutritional benefits: Ice apple is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B, C, and K, potassium, calcium, and iron. It is also low in calories and high in fiber, making it a healthy addition to your diet.

Medicinal properties: In traditional medicine, ice apple is believed to have several medicinal properties, such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer effects. It is also used to treat digestive issues, respiratory problems, and skin ailments.

Overall, ice apple is a versatile fruit that can be used in various ways to promote health and well-being.

Side Effects of ICE APPLE :

Ice apple is generally considered safe and healthy for most people. However, consuming it in excessive amounts may cause some side effects, such as:

Digestive issues: Eating too much ice apple can cause diarrhea, bloating, and other digestive issues in some people, especially those with a sensitive stomach.

Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to ice apple, which can cause symptoms such as itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

High sugar content: Ice apple is high in natural sugars, which can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes.

Short shelf life: Ice apple has a short shelf life and is highly perishable. Eating spoiled or contaminated ice apple can cause food poisoning and other health issues.

Overall, ice apple is a healthy and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in moderation. It is important to buy fresh, ripe, and hygienic ice apple from a trusted source and to consume it within a day or two of purchase to avoid any potential health risks.

Cultivation :

Ice apple, also known as Nungu or Taal in some regions, is a tropical fruit that is mainly cultivated in Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.

Here are the steps involved in the cultivation of ice apple:

Soil Preparation: The soil should be prepared by adding organic matter like compost, cow dung, and leaves, to improve fertility.

Sowing: The seeds of ice apple are sown in the prepared soil, and they start germinating within a week or two.

Watering: Ice apple trees require a lot of water, so they should be watered regularly. During the initial stage, water should be supplied every day, and as the plant grows, it can be watered every alternate day.

Fertilization: Fertilizers containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied every three months to ensure healthy growth of the plant.

Pruning: Pruning should be done regularly to remove the dead and infected parts of the plant, which can lead to disease and hinder growth.

Harvesting: Ice apples are harvested when they are young and tender, which is usually between May and June in India. They are plucked from the tree by hand or using a stick with a hook at the end.

Sorting and Packing: The harvested ice apples are sorted based on their size and packed in boxes or crates for transportation to markets.