Garcinia indica

Garcinia indica, also known as kokum, is a fruit-bearing tree that has culinary, pharmaceutical, and industrial uses. The fruit of the Garcinia indica tree is a staple of the Indian diet, particularly in the western coastal regions of Karnataka and Maharashtra.

Etymology

The name "Garcinia indica" is derived from the Latin "indica" meaning "of India", and "Garcinia" is named after Laurent Garcin, a French naturalist who first described the genus. The common name "kokum" is derived from the Konkani term "kokam".

Description

Garcinia indica is a slender evergreen tree that grows up to 18 meters in height. The tree's bark is smooth and dark brown, while the leaves are green and glossy. The fruit is a dark purple drupe, similar in appearance to a small plum.

Culinary uses

The fruit of the Garcinia indica tree is widely used in Indian cuisine. The outer cover of fruit is dried in the sun to get Aamsul or Kokam. It is used as a staple souring agent typically in Maharashtrian cuisine, Goan cuisine and in some parts of Karnataka.

Medicinal uses

Garcinia indica has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The fruit is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, and it is used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive problems, inflammation, and skin disorders.

Industrial uses

The seeds of the Garcinia indica tree are rich in hydroxycitric acid, which is a substance that has potential use in the industrial production of hydroxycitric acid.

See also

• Garcinia
• Garcinia cambogia
• Garcinia gummi-gutta

References

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