Yellow Kokum

Yellow Kokum, also known as Garcinia indica or Kokum, is a fruit plant native to the Western Ghats region of India. It is a small evergreen tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height and has a dense canopy of leaves.

The fruit of the Yellow Kokum is a small, round berry, usually measuring around 2-3 centimeters in diameter. It has a tough outer skin that ranges from yellow to red in color, and the flesh inside is juicy and translucent with a tangy, sour taste. The fruit contains several small seeds that are inedible.

Yellow Kokum is a popular ingredient in Indian cuisine, especially in the coastal regions of Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka. It is commonly used in making a refreshing drink called kokum sherbet, which is made by boiling the fruit with sugar and water. The fruit is also used to add a sour flavor to curries, chutneys, and pickles.

Yellow Kokum is known for its medicinal properties, and is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments, including acidity, constipation, and skin rashes. The fruit is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and may help in weight management.

The plant is relatively easy to grow and is cultivated in the Western Ghats region of India. It requires well-drained soil and a warm, humid climate. The tree can be grown for its fruit, as well as for its timber, which is used in furniture making.