(Grewia asiatica)- Sherbet Berry (2 Seeds)

The sherbet berry (also known as phalsa berry) produces masses of bright yellow springtime flowers, that are similar in both appearance and taste to grapes said to be rich and sweet with a hint of citrusy tartness. They are also extremely nutritious, filled with antioxidants, Vitamin C and other nutrients.

GROWING GUIDE

• Zone: 9-11
• Season: Spring/Summer
• Depth: 1/4″ deep
• Sun: Prefers full sun; can tolerate partial shade
• Soil Quality: Poor/Rich
• Drought Tolerant: Yes
• Germination Rate: 2-8 weeks 
• Sub-tropical seeds should be planted as fast as possible after receiving them to ensure viability.
• Keep soil moist in order for seeds to germinate; once seeds have sprouted soil can go through dry periods

SHERBET BERRY BENEFITS AND USES

High in Vitamin C, Calcium, Potassium, Phosphorus and antioxidants. Phalsa syrup, a drink prepared from the juice of the berries, is considered a delicacy in northern India.

Phalsa helps in relieving bile problems and smooth digestion. Vitamin C and minerals present in it help in controlling blood pressure and cholesterol level. Apart from this, it is beneficial in many health problems along with eliminating fatigue.

Consuming phalsa fruit or Phalsa sherbet can ease diarrhea and stomach ache. To make it more nutritious, add some roasted parsley and carom seeds powder to relieve stomach discomfort.

• Root bark is used by Santhal tribes for rheumatism.
• Stem bark is said to be used in refining sugar.
• Stem bark infusion is used as a demulcent.
• Leaves are used as an application to pustular eruptions.
• Buds are also prescribed by some physicians.
• Fruit has been used as astringent, stomachic and cooling agent in traditional folkloric medicines.
• When unripe, it has been stated to alleviate inflammation and was administered in respiratory, cardiac and blood disorders, as well as in fever.
• Fruit was also beneficial food throat ailments.
• Root bark has been recommended for rheumatism and its infusion used as a demulcent.
• Leaves were applied on skin eruptions.
• Seeds of G. asiatica have been used as antifertility agent and were reported to have anti-implantation and abortifacient activities.
• In traditional folkloric medicine in Bangladesh, Grewia asiatica plant is commonly used for gonorrhea by the Garo tribe and local traditional healers in Madhupur and Tangail district.
• It is also used to treat lack of appetite, typhus, acidity, giddiness, diarrhea, hypertension, stimulant, anorexia.
• asiatica is also used for gonorrhea and as astringent, demulcent, rheumatism, stomachic and tumor in India.
• An infusion of the bark is said to treat diarrhea, pain, rheumatism, and arthritis.
• Falsa leaves are used in traditional medicine to treat urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases.
• Leaves are said to have a mild antibiotic effect. Soaked overnight and made into a paste, they are said to relieve inflammations of the skin including cuts, burns, boils, eczema, and pustular skin eruptions.
• Root bark has been shown in research to relieve pain and inflammation, according to a study conducted at Vinayaka Mission’s College of Pharmacy in Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.
• Falsa leaf and fruit extract may function as anti-cancer agents. Research on mice has shown that the pomace, or solid fruit parts, may prevent the formation of breast, cervical, and blood cancers.
• Oil produced from the seeds helps in the treatment of reproductive disorders and fertility problems.
• Falsa removes pimples, acne, and skin dryness and cures anemia.
• Falsa juice is also good for sunburn victims and those who suffer from a heat stroke.
• It has a high content of vitamin C which helps in relieving asthma, bronchitis and shortness of breath.
• It helps in building stamina, less insomnia and depression.
• Falsa juice is a great supplement for people with diabetes.
• Stem bark is used in sugar refining.
• Leaves are applied to the skin for wounds and cuts and to relieve irritation and painful rashes.

NUTRITION

• Vitamin B2
• Calcium
• Iron
• Potassium
• Vitamin B3
• Vitamin C
• Phosphorus

EDIBLE PARTS OF PLANT

• Fruit– blueberry sized berries, are ripe when deep purple, sweet notes of berry and citrus slightly sour like an orange