Tragacanth- a miracle gum

This year hit us with massive heat waves, reaching up to 50 degrees. People were suffering from many problems, like acne, inflammation., skin burns, and body heat. Hydration and diet are essential components for tackling these kinds of heat waves. There are a lot of superfoods that can be consumed, like berries, lemons, melons, etc., to beat the heat.

Amidst all the heat, we discover a healing agent, tragacanth, or “gond katira.” It is a natural gum obtained from the sap of Gond tree. It is mainly used in Indian desserts. It also carries some medicinal benefits. It is a tasteless, jelly-like substance that needs water to swell up and be consumed. 

Healing properties 

Tragacanth can be used for getting glowing skin and healing acne. Inflammation and body heat can cause acne and breakouts. This traditional medicine is packed with calcium, magnesium, etc., which can act as a supplement to our daily diet. This substance can also help with digestive health by curing constipation and gut issues. Our gut can get irritated due to food and body heat. It can help cure ulcers too. It is also a hydrating substance and can help us stay more hydrated in the summer with all the sweat and water loss. 

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Ways to consume or use 

1. It can be mixed with water or lemonade as a cooling drink. It needs to be soaked overnight before use. 2-3 pieces of tragacanth can form a jelly-like consistency that can be added to the drinks for a chewy texture.

2. It can be added to the desserts. Since it is tasteless, it can be added to any dessert, like ice cream, slushies, milk desserts, etc. 

3. It can also be applied externally as face masks or hair masks. Due to its cooling properties, it can help cure pimples and redness on the skin. 

4. Menstrual cycle regulation may also benefit from it. Because of its anti-inflammatory qualities, it may ease menstrual cramps.

All in all, tragacanth is a miracle gum that has multiple internal and external uses for the human body. Instead of consuming packed drinks and aerated drinks, which contain sugar in high amounts, one can switch to traditional substances. Gond katira is one such supplement that can be added to your diet in summer. It provides the body with hydration, clears and protects your skin, helps with bowel movement, and can be used as an external agent too.

Back in the day, people used to keep their bodies healthy by eating right and working hard. They did not have skincare routines or supplement tablets. Traditional medicines like these came in handy.