Gond Kheri
· Common Name: Kher Ki Gond
· English Name: Gond Khair
· Urdu Name: گون٘د کھیری
· Scientific Name: Acacia catechu
· Halal
· Vegetarian
Description
Gond Kheri is a natural gum or resin obtained from the dried sap of the Kher (Acacia catechu) tree. Its primary component is a complex mixture of polysaccharides that give it its characteristic sticky and binding properties. It is a traditional ingredient in Indian culinary and medicinal practices, particularly used in making sweets like laddus. The gum is typically a hard, translucent substance, and it functions as a thickener and emulsifier when used in cooking.
Healthy Daily Serving Size
As traditionally used.
Key Nutrients Gond Kheri
The composition of Gond Kheri is like other natural gums, with notable constituents including:
· Tannin: Astringent, bitter polyphenolic compounds that are also present in other gums derived from Acacia trees.
· Polysaccharides: Complex carbohydrates, such as galacturonic acid, arabinose, and xylose, are the main building blocks of the gum, providing its gelling properties.
· Other compounds: The gum also contains other elements found in Acacia species, including flavonoids like kaempferol and isoquercitrin, as well as calcium and magnesium.
· Medicine: It is used in Ayurvedic preparations as a natural remedy.
· Food: It is used to make sweets like laddus, especially during the winter, as gum is considered to be "warm" in nature and believed to boost immunity and strength.
