Ice Apple (Nungu): The Natural Way to Beat the Summer Heat

During the scorching summer months, people often turn to hydrating fruits like Watermelon, Cucumber, and Tender Coconut to stay cool and refreshed. However, another underrated summer fruit that offers incredible health benefits is Ice Apple, popularly known as Nungu in South India.

This naturally cooling fruit is commonly sold by roadside vendors during summer and is cherished for its refreshing taste and impressive nutritional value. With its jelly-like texture and mild sweetness, Ice Apple is not just delicious but also extremely beneficial for health.

What Is Ice Apple (Nungu)?

Ice Apple is the fruit of the Palmyra Palm, a tree widely found in tropical regions of India. The fruit has a dark, thick outer shell similar to a coconut. Inside, it contains soft, translucent jelly-like segments that are consumed as the edible portion.

Because of its cool, watery texture, Ice Apple is often compared to tender coconut and is popularly known as “Nature’s summer coolant.”

It is widely found in Indian states like:

• Tamil Nadu

• Andhra Pradesh

• Telangana

• Karnataka

• Odisha

• West Bengal

• Maharashtra

Top Health Benefits of Ice Apple

1. Excellent Hydration for Summer

One of the biggest benefits of Ice Apple is its high water content. It helps maintain hydration levels in the body and prevents dehydration during hot weather.

Eating Ice Apple can quickly refresh your body and replenish lost fluids, making it an ideal summer snack.

2. Rich in Essential Nutrients

Ice Apple is packed with important nutrients such as

• Dietary fiber

• Protein

• Vitamins A, C, E, and K

• Minerals like iron, zinc, potassium, and phosphorus

Despite being low in calories, it provides essential nutrients that support overall health.

Naturally Cools the Body

In traditional wellness practices like Ayurveda, Ice Apple is considered a cooling food that helps balance body heat.

It may help reduce

• Body heat

• Acidity

• Heat rashes

• Dehydration during summer

The natural electrolytes present in Ice Apple also help regulate body temperature.

Low-Calorie Healthy Snack

If you’re looking for a light and healthy snack during summer, Ice Apple is an excellent choice. It is naturally low in calories and easy to digest.

This makes it perfect for:

• Midday snacks

• Post-workout refreshment

• Light summer meals

How to Eat Ice Apple

The simplest and healthiest way to enjoy Ice Apple is to eat it fresh after removing the outer skin.

It can be consumed

• Plain

• Chilled

• Mixed with milk or sweet syrup

• Added to desserts and beverages

Its mild sweetness and soft texture make it a favorite among both children and adults.

Delicious Ice Apple Recipes to Try

1. Ice Apple Sharbat

A refreshing summer drink that can be prepared in minutes.

Ingredients:

• Peeled Ice Apple

• Chilled water or coconut water

• Honey or sugar

• A pinch of black salt

• Fresh mint leaves

Blend all ingredients together and serve with ice for a cooling summer beverage.

2. Ice Apple Payasam

This sweet dessert is popular in many South Indian homes.

Ingredients:

• Milk

• Sugar

• Almonds

• Cardamom

• Finely chopped Ice Apple pieces

Mix the ingredients and chill before serving to create a delicious summer dessert.

Why You Should Eat Ice Apple This Summer

With rising temperatures every year due to Climate Change, staying hydrated and consuming cooling foods is more important than ever.

Ice Apple is a natural, nutritious, and refreshing fruit that helps the body cope with extreme heat while providing essential nutrients.

So the next time you spot Ice Apple at a roadside stall, don’t miss the chance to enjoy this natural summer superfood.