Phalsa is a fruit that comes from a small shrub-like tree, commonly found in Asia. This fruit is known for its refreshing taste and health benefits. The tree grows to a height of 4 to 8 feet, and its heart-shaped leaves measure around 20 cm long and 16.25 cm wide. During spring, the tree produces small yellow flowers, while the fruit itself is round, with seeds that are approximately 5 mm in diameter. Aside from its delightful flavor, phalsa offers numerous nutritional and medicinal benefits, making it highly regarded in traditional wellness practices. Today, we explore the amazing benefits of phalsa:
- Digestive Health:
Phalsa is packed with vitamins B and C and has a cooling effect on the body. It helps relieve stomach heat, acidity, and indigestion. The juice from phalsa is known to improve digestion, regulate the digestive system, and replenish fluids in the body. It’s also suggested for alleviating stomach pain—just mix a small amount of ajwain in the juice, heat it, and drink it. For those experiencing heaviness in the stomach or nausea, a syrup made from phalsa and sugar can be highly beneficial. - Youthful Skin:
Phalsa’s vibrant purple color is due to its high content of antioxidants, especially anthocyanins. These antioxidants help protect collagen, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and youthfulness. Phalsa also purifies the blood, leading to clear and glowing skin. - Bone Health:
Phalsa contains a significant amount of calcium, which is essential for bone health. This fruit may help prevent the loss of bone density as people age. Additionally, a decoction made from the bark of the phalsa root is a great remedy for joint pain. - Heat Protection:
Phalsa is a great remedy for combating extreme heat and quenching thirst. It strengthens the liver and helps expel excess heat from the body. Drinking phalsa juice can be a safeguard against heatstroke during hot weather. Additionally, rubbing phalsa leaves or seeds in water and drinking it can provide relief from the heat. - Blood Health:
Phalsa is rich in iron, which helps combat blood deficiency. It purifies the blood, improves circulation, and can help in producing new blood. Regular consumption of phalsa helps in blood health and can even improve skin complexion. For blood deficiency, drinking water from phalsa root bark soaked overnight in water is a beneficial remedy. - Cancer Prevention:
Phalsa is known for its antioxidant-rich composition, which can help reduce the risk of cancer. Mixing phalsa juice with a pinch of black pepper and salt can help lower the risk of cancer. - Diabetes Management:
Phalsa is a low-sugar fruit, making it suitable for those with diabetes. A remedy using the bark of the phalsa tree, mixed with sugar, can be used to control blood sugar levels effectively. - Muscle Building:
Phalsa contains potassium and protein, which support muscle strength and overall muscle function. This fruit can aid in building and maintaining strong muscles. - Energy Boost:
Due to its protein content, phalsa helps increase energy levels. Drinking its syrup can provide a natural boost of vitality. - Skin Problems:
Phalsa leaves can be used to treat pimples and boils. Crushing dried leaves and applying them to the affected area can bring relief. - Heart Health:
Phalsa is believed to reduce inflammation, which makes it beneficial for heart health. Drinking phalsa juice mixed with black pepper and salt can help support heart health. - Stomach Relief:
Phalsa juice can also relieve stomach pain. For added benefit, mixing a small amount of ajwain in the juice can help soothe stomach discomfort. - Respiratory Health:
Drinking phalsa syrup can help treat conditions like asthma, cold, and other respiratory issues. Adding lemon or ginger to phalsa juice can enhance its effects. - Liver Health:
Phalsa can be used to improve liver function. Burn the fruit and turn it into a powder similar to salt. Mixing a pinch of this powder with honey daily can help detoxify the liver and cleanse the blood.
How to Prepare Phalsa Syrup:
Take half a kilogram of phalsa fruit and one kilogram of sugar. Crush the phalsa, blend it with water, and strain it through a fine cloth. Add sugar and cook the mixture until it reaches a consistency where a thread forms. Let it cool, then store it in a clean glass bottle. This syrup is great for liver health, cooling the body, and refreshing the mind. It aids digestion and helps reduce nausea and excessive thirst. For those with digestive discomfort, consuming a few tablespoons of this syrup after meals is highly effective. Adding rose water to the syrup doubles its benefits.
Precautions:
Phalsa can be unsuitable for people with a cold body type, as it may aggravate respiratory or chest issues. It should be consumed in moderation. If consumed excessively, gulkand (a sweet rose preserve) can counteract its negative effects. Phalsa can cause dryness and constipation, but taking gulkand or medicinal jams after consuming phalsa can prevent this. In general, phalsa should be consumed in moderation for maximum benefit. Sour or under-ripe phalsa should be avoided, as it may cause throat irritation. People with high blood pressure should avoid combining phalsa with salt. Always store phalsa in a cool place or in the refrigerator to avoid spoilage.
