ABOUT ICE APPLE

ICE APPLE

Ice apple is a less known tropical fruit of the palmyra palm tree. It is widely available in the hot sizzling summer seasons. It is scientifically known as Borassus flabellifer and belongs to the family Arecaceae. Ice apple fruit is a deep brown to black in appearance and spherical upon ripening.

Another name for Ice apple are Borassus flabellifer, Nungu , Doub palm , Palmyra palm , Tala , Tal palm , Toddy palm , Wine palm.

Ice apple, also known as "nongu" in Tamil, "taal" in Hindi, or "thaati munjalu" in Telugu, is a fruit that is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is obtained from the Borassus flabellifer tree, which is commonly known as the "Palmyra palm."

Nutrients:

Ice apple is a nutritious fruit that is low in calories and high in essential nutrients. Here is the nutrition information for 100 grams of ice apple:

• Calories: 60
• Protein: 0.5 grams
• Fat: 0.2 grams
• Carbohydrates: 14 grams
• Fiber: 1.1 grams
• Sugar: 11 grams
• Vitamin C: 22% of the daily value
• Calcium: 1% of the daily value
• Iron: 2% of the daily value
• Potassium: 5% of the daily value
• Sodium: 1% of the daily value

Ice apple is a good source of vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient for the immune system and skin health. It is also a good source of potassium, which helps in regulating blood pressure and maintaining healthy heart function. Ice apple is low in fat and calories and contains no cholesterol, which makes it an excellent food for people who want to maintain a healthy weight and lower their risk of heart disease.

Cultivation of Ice Apple:

The cultivation of ice apple begins with planting the Palmyra palm tree, which grows well in hot, tropical regions with well-drained soil. Here are the steps involved in the cultivation of ice apple:

• Site selection: Palmyra palm trees require a lot of sunlight and well-drained soil to grow. The site selected for planting should receive ample sunlight and should be free of waterlogging.
• Planting: The Palmyra palm tree is usually propagated by planting the seeds directly in the ground. The seeds are planted at a depth of 5 to 7 cm, and the germination process takes about 30 to 45 days.
• Fertilization: Palmyra palm trees require a lot of nutrients to grow well. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer is recommended to ensure healthy growth.
• Irrigation: Ice apple trees require regular watering, especially during the dry season. The frequency of irrigation depends on the weather conditions and the soil type.
• Pruning: Pruning is required to remove any dead or diseased leaves and to maintain the tree's shape. Pruning is usually done during the dormant season.
• Harvesting: The ice apple fruit takes about 6 to 8 months to mature. Once the fruit is mature, it is harvested by climbing the tree and cutting the fruit from the tree. The fruit is then cracked open to reveal the jelly-like interior, which is then consumed or used in various dishes.

The cultivation of ice apple requires careful attention to soil and weather conditions, fertilization, irrigation, pruning, and harvesting.

Health Benefits:

Ice apple has several health benefits. Here are some of them:

• Hydrates the body: Ice apple is rich in electrolytes and water, which makes it an excellent natural hydrator. It is a great option for people who suffer from dehydration during the hot summer months.
• Good for digestion: The high fiber content in ice apple helps in regulating digestion and prevents constipation. It also helps in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
• Boosts immunity: Ice apple is a good source of vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient for boosting the immune system. It also contains antioxidants that help in fighting free radicals and preventing oxidative stress.
• Good for bone health: Ice apple is rich in calcium and phosphorus, which are essential nutrients for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.
• Lowers cholesterol: Ice apple is low in fat and contains no cholesterol, which makes it an excellent food for people who want to lower their cholesterol levels.
• Regulates blood sugar: Ice apple has a low glycemic index, which means it does not cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels. It is a good option for people with diabetes or those who want to regulate their blood sugar levels.
• Improves skin health: Ice apple is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help in keeping the skin healthy and preventing premature aging.

Finally, ice apple is a nutritious fruit that provides several health benefits. It is a good source of hydration, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and can be a great addition to a healthy diet.