If you grew up in North India, you might remember guzzling down shikanji or milkshakes spiked with Gond Katira in the summers, your grandma telling you that it was good for your health and would cool you down.
Gond katila (also known as tragacanth gum) is the talk of the summer of 2024, at least on Instagram. The social media platform is suddenly awash in Reels videos about this “summer superfood,” with influencers raving about its long list of health benefits. Some videos suggest that consuming it will give you glowing skin, while others say it can help relieve joint pain. Many also tout it as a solution to constipation.
Check out some reels here:
The odorless, translucent crystals turn into a thick gel when soaked in water for a few hours, which can be added to lemon water, milkshakes, smoothies, etc.
Instagram may have only recently discovered this gum, but it’s long been a trusted summer herbal remedy in Indian households. Extracted from the sap of the astragalus tree, Gond Katila is revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its natural benefits.
But is it really as healthy as people claim? Health experts say it is.
Cooling Characteristics
Clinical nutritionist Lovneet Batra suggests consuming it for its cooling effect.
“Gondkatira is known to have cooling properties and is an ideal natural remedy to reduce body temperature during hot weather,” she says. India Today.
Its cooling effect also helps in curbing nosebleeds, which are common in summers, says Dr Vikas Jindal, consultant gastroenterologist at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi.
Effects on digestion
Gond Katira has a positive effect on the digestive system. It is rich in dietary fibre and helps in relieving constipation.
Nutritionist Batra agrees, adding: “It acts as a prebiotic, supporting digestive health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.”
Meanwhile, Dr Jindal says it keeps the body hydrated. “It is used for both constipation and diarrhoea. When mixed with yogurt, it helps in relieving diarrhoea. When mixed with milk, it helps in constipation,” he says.
Glowing Skin
Experts say Gond Katira is also good for your skin: while social media claims that it can completely get rid of acne may be exaggerated, its moisturizing properties help maintain skin elasticity.
Delhi-based dermatologist Dr Deepali Bhardwaj says the plant is rich in antioxidants and is good for the skin.
“It contains antioxidants, which helps in fighting problems like wrinkles and ageing. Also, it can be eaten in winter as well as summer,” she says. India Today.
Nutritionist Robneet agrees, saying its moisturising and healing properties help treat acne, reduce wrinkles and promote a healthy glow.
Joint Health
Health experts say its anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce pain and inflammation in the joints, benefiting arthritis sufferers by relieving pain.
Dr Santosh Shetty, head of orthopaedics and robotic joint replacement surgery at Surana Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, says Gond Katira is good for bones as it is rich in calcium and has anti-inflammatory properties.
“It contains calcium, which is essential for maintaining bone health and strength. Calcium is an important mineral that contributes to bone density,” says Dr Shetty.
“It is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation in the bones and joints,” he added.
Be careful with the amount
However, you should be careful about the amount you consume. Also, experts recommend mixing Gond Katira Gel with water or milk rather than eating it plain.
Lobneet says you first need to soak Gond Katira (in crystalline form) in water for six to eight hours. “Consume one tablespoon of the gel mixed in cold liquid,” she says.
People who should not take Gondokatira
According to experts, Gond Katira should be kept away from pregnant women, children under the age of five, and people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
However, women can take it after pregnancy.
“Consuming Gond Katira is said to increase strength and stamina. It is often used in traditional remedies to boost energy levels and overall vitality, especially in women after childbirth,” says Lobneet.
The best way to enjoy Gond Katira
There are many ways to incorporate the nutrients of Gond Katira into your diet. As it is tasteless, it can be mixed into savory drinks and desserts.
Simply mix one spoonful of soaked gum into a glass:
- Lemon water
- Milkshake
- Aam Panna
- Rose Milk Sherbet
It can also be added to dessert bowls like kheer.
