If you have ever walked through a Bengali market in summer, you have probably seen piles of juicy Ice Apple. Their jelly-like seeds, called taal-shash, are ready to give you a sweet way to cool down. But Ice Apple is not just tasty- it also has many health benefits.
Ice Apple
Ice Apple comes from the fruit of the Borassus flabellifer, one of the tallest plants in the palm family. Although the tree originally comes from Africa, it has grown in Bangladesh for hundreds of years and thrives in places like Mymensingh, Khulna, Faridpur, Rajshahi, and Gazipur.
It’s not just a fruit tree; it’s an ecological ally, helping prevent soil erosion and standing strong against environmental challenges. But be patient. This is a slow grower. It takes up to ten years to start producing fruit.
Seasonal Star of the Summer
Ice Apple is harvested in the summer, right when our bodies crave hydration and cooling foods. It’s no surprise then that this soft, jelly-like treat is a favorite among people of all ages during the sweltering months.
Each fruit typically holds two to three pulps, which are high in water content and loaded with nutrients. Think of it as a tropical cousin to coconut- refreshing, hydrating, and packed with health perks.
Nutritional Snapshot (Per 100g of Palm Pulp):
- Water: 87.6 g
- Protein: 0.8 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 10.9 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Calcium: 27 mg
- Phosphorus: 30 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
- Thiamine (B1): 0.4 mg
- Riboflavin (B2): 0.2 mg
- Niacin (B3): 0.3 mg
- Vitamin C: Present in beneficial amounts
Health Benefits of Ice Apple
1. Natural Body Cooler
Ice Apple is a go-to summer remedy to beat the heat. It hydrates your body, soothes heat rashes, and can even help prevent hair fall and skin dryness due to high temperatures.
2. Keeps You Hydrated
High in water, it helps replenish lost fluids from sweating, keeping you refreshed and energized.
3. Aids Digestion
If you struggle with stomach issues, ice apple can help. It eases constipation, supports digestion, and soothes acidity and ulcers. It’s even helpful for pregnant women dealing with digestive discomfort.
4. Great for Weight Loss
Low in calories and high in water- ice apple makes a filling, guilt-free snack that can support your weight-loss goals.
5. Heart and Cancer Defense
Thanks to its antioxidant content, palm pulp may help protect your heart and lower your risk of certain cancers.
6. Immunity Booster
Its rich mix of vitamins and antioxidants helps strengthen your immune system, just what you need to stay healthy year-round.
7. Sharpens Mind & Boosts Vitality
Ice Apple supports memory and overall physical well-being. It’s an easy change to your diet that can have a big impact.
8. Eases Nausea
Feeling queasy? This remedy from nature can help with an upset stomach and increase your appetite.
9. Supports Strong Teeth & Bones
10. Improves Eye Health
Ice Apple has plenty of calcium and phosphorus, which keep your bones and teeth strong and healthy.
10. Improve Eye Health
Rich in essential minerals such as potassium, iron, magnesium, and selenium, ice apple supports eye health and may help prevent issues like night blindness.
11. Liver and Blood Pressure Benefits
Ice apple has vitamins that help keep your liver healthy and improve your appetite. It also contains nitrates that can naturally control your blood pressure.
12. Skin Soother
Putting ice apple on the skin can help ease rashes, acne and other skin problems caused by heat.
13. Fights Anemia
Iron-rich ice apple is a natural way to combat iron deficiency and boost energy levels.
Final Thoughts
Tender ice apple is more than just a tasty summer indulgence- it’s a powerhouse of nutrition wrapped in nature’s packaging. You can enjoy palm pulp fresh, eat it as a cold dessert, or even put it on your skin. It’s good for your whole body.
So next time you see this seasonal gem at your local market, don’t pass it up. Your body and taste buds are gonna throw a party in your honor!
