​7 lesser-known Indian summer fruits and how to consume them​

The summer season is around the corner and so is the season of hydrating fruits, that can keep the gut healthy. The magic of nature is surprising, and it can be experienced with the seasonal fruits, which are loaded with water content and help us stay hydrated during the changing weather. If you have been sticking to melons during the summer all this while, it's time to taste these lesser-known summer fruits, which are apt for the season too. Also, read the right way to consume them.​

It is also known as Ice Apple and is a perfect summer fruit, which is packed with water and electrolytes and prevents dehydration. It soothes the digestive system and helps prevent heat-related issues like prickly heat or sunstroke. And it also contains B vitamins, potassium, and iron, boosting energy and immunity.

How to consume: It can be consumed as a milkshake, in salads, or one can also make sharbat.

Balel, also known as Wood Apple is a powerful summer fruit that naturally soothes heat and helps prevent sunstroke. It is rich in tannins and fiber, which helps treat constipation, diarrhea, and gut inflammation. Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants it helps fight summer infections. And it acts as a natural cleanser to support liver health during extreme heat.

How to consume: It is best consumed as a summer sherbet and one can also enjoy just the pulp.

Also known as Mulberry, it is nutrient-rich summer fruit that naturally lowers body heat and helps combat summer fatigue. It is also rich in vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants that help fight infections and improves blood circulation and promotes healthy, glowing skin.

How to consume: While they are best consumed fresh, one can make smoothie, juice or can be made into a jam as well.

It is a summer fruit that helps regulate body temperature and prevent heat-related fatigue. It also contains natural sugars that provide sustained energy without heaviness. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it also helps fight seasonal infections and is traditionally used to aid digestion.

How to consume: This Indian fruit is best enjoyed as chutney or pickle and can be used to make jam as well.

It is a traditional summer superfruit that helps reduce body heat and prevents dehydration and heatstroke. It contains garcinol and vitamin C, which boost immunity and fight inflammation. It is also said to soothe acidity, bloating, and improve appetite during hot weather.

How to consume: It can be added to dal or the best is to make chutney or sherbet with it.

Also known as Bayberry or Kaphal, it is a lesser-known summer fruit that has a natural cooling property. It is packed with vitamins, especially vitamin C, which boosts immunity and helps in the healing of wounds and cuts. It also contains antioxidants, which protect the body from oxidative stress.It is known to aid digestion and improve metabolism, which can help with common digestive issues during the summer. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce any inflammation or swelling, which can be a concern during the heat.

How to consume: It can be consumed as chutney, or juice and one can also make jam with it

Also known as Indian Sherbet Berry, this summer fruit is naturally cooling and helps regulate body temperature and prevent heatstroke. The high water content keeps you refreshed and fights dehydration. It is also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants to combat infections. Its fiber and mild astringent properties help ease indigestion and bloating. It also contains potassium and anti-inflammatory compounds that support cardiovascular health.

How to consume: It is best consumed as phalse ka sherbat, but one can also them to salads or crunch them into chutney as well.