If you are planning to grow berries in your backyard, you will likely fail to harvest the more mainstream varieties like blueberries and raspberries. However, there are several Indian varieties of berries that you can grow and eventually consume to improve your health.
Both Indian and imported berries taste good but the debate primarily revolves around their respective nutritional values—raising the question: which are healthier? Both varieties have unique nutritional profiles, while exotic berries gain more popularity for their foreign appeal, the indigenous varieties offer potential health benefits and local adaptability. If you are looking for some nutritious options to cultivate in your backyard, we have some exceptional native options for you!
Kanta berry or Karonda is harvested in India’s Konkan region. It is typically consumed raw and has a stinging pungent flavour (like Amla). This juicy bounty has several health benefits— it helps cure fevers and relieve digestive issues. It is harvested in hilly regions and is rich in iron, and vitamins B and C.
The Indian Jujube is a yellow-orange, round fruit. The flowers of the Jujube tree mature to become berries. The beginning of the monsoon is the ideal time to plant these trees and their proliferation. Consumption of Jujube berries can promote skin rejuvenation, improved digestion, weight loss, strengthen bones, and heal wounds.
When discussing Indian berries, Jamun deserves a special place on the list. This beloved and nutritious indigenous berry is harvested across the country. The fruit harvests during monsoon and it takes nearly 3 to 5 months to ripen. Additionally, jamun extracts can help reduce sugar levels, cleanse the body, and soothe digestive issues.
These berries are golden orange—have a sour taste and are sometimes bitter. Rasbhari has a glossy and smooth exterior, is packed with vitamin A, and improves vision. Diabetes patients must add these wonder berries to their diet to regulate sugar levels.
Mulberries are rich in nutrients like polyphenols, anthocyanins, and several other antioxidants. Eating mulberries can help improve your hair and skin health and protect your body from the hazardous effects of unsafe free radicals. It also lowers cholesterol levels and improves gut health.
The berries are purple with green seeds inside them. They are cultivated in and around Goa. The fruit is sweet. The presence of flavonoids helps control diabetes, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure.
This indigenous wonder berry was first found in Varanasi, later Buddhist scholars took it to other countries. In terms of appearance, phalsa resembles grapes. However, its benefits easily exceed other fruits.
The harvesting season of phalsa is shorter than most Indian berries. This summer fruit is harvested during the peak of summer—from March through April (in the Deccan states), and between May and June in the north. This succulent fruit can help regulate sugar levels, prevent the abnormal growth of cells in the body and improve heart health.
The Kokum tree predominantly grows on India’s Western coast and is popular in places like Goa. This refreshing fruit is versatile and has several uses due to its exceptional culinary adaptability. Kokum trees grow well in hot and humid climates and its fruit is harvested between April to June.
This indigenous berry is rich in antioxidants, magnesium, potassium, and B-complex vitamins. Kokum juice serves as an excellent digestive tonic and is traditionally believed to be a natural coolant that can help cope with extreme summer heat.
Berries are superfoods and have always been an Indian kitchen staple, yet many people are unaware of their nutrient-packed profile.
