Gulkand, an ayurvedic preparation from Indo-Persia, is made with fresh rose petals (of any variety/spectrum) and sugar. It has several medicinal properties that are helpful in relieving or alleviating many health complaints. During the summer, ayurvedic constituents such as Mukta Pishti and Praval Pishti are usually added to rose petals' sweet preserve in order to control excess heat in the body.
Nutritionally, it contains carbohydrates, a macronutrient essential for energizing, and dietary fibre, which helps ease digestive problems. In this blog, you will find ten healthy benefits of gulkand. Keep reading to know more!
What Is Gulkand?
In simple terms, gulkand is an ayurvedic flavoured rose petal which tastes like heaven. Gulkand is made with rose petals which are gathered at their peak. Gulkand is made with sugar and fresh rose petals. This combination is arranged in layers in a wide-mouthed, airtight jar and placed in sunlight for 6 to 7 hours a day for up to three weeks.
Next, the jar is mixed with a wooden stick on alternate days. After the completion of 3 weeks, the gulkand jar is kept indoors. By doing this, Gulkand’s cooling effects and properties last longer.
Gulkand Benefits
1) Low in calories, rich in nutrients
10 grams of Gulkand has about 30 calories, in which total carbohydrates and dietary fibre are 4.13-5.3 grams and 0.85-1.7 grams, respectively. Its water content is approx. 85-90%, with 0% fat and cholesterol.
Moreover, rose petals have a high content of minerals and vitamins, through which one can reap more Gulkand benefits.
2) Help treat mouth ulcers
People having excess body heat often suffer from mouth ulcers. Gulkand provides a cooling effect that soothes down the burning sensation and pain around the swollen area.
3) Provides relaxation from menstrual problems
Women facing heavy bleeding, excess white discharge, or other menstrual issues must include Gulkand in their diet. Gulkand relaxes the muscles of the reproductive organs. Muscle relaxation provides relief from period cramps.
4) Assists in mild to moderate constipation
Gulkand helps draw excess water that helps in stool softening, thereby further helping one get rid of constipation. Pregnant ladies often suffer from bloating and constipation, and they should include Gulkand in their diet.
5) Treats acidity and heartburn
Due to the cooling effect of Gulkhand, it calms down the burning sensation in the throat, helps relieve sore throat, indigestion, and stomach ache. For people having constant acidity issues, it helps with their dependence on antacids. Therefore, people facing acidity must take half to one tablespoon of Gulkand at least twice a day.
6) Treats mild haemorrhoids or bleeding piles
Chronic constipation and low fibre in the diet is the most common reason behind piles. Gulkand benefits you in reducing the swelling of the haemorrhoids. Reduced swelling lowers the pressure in the lower intestine, thereby ensuring easy stool passage.
Note: If the condition is serious, consult the doctor for immediate medication and treatment.
7) Help remove toxins
Gulkand has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that remove the toxins from the body and help purify the blood.
8) Prevents nose bleeding
Nose Bleeding is quite common in kids and adults, especially during hot summer. Gulkand is one of the home remedies to treat a bleeding nose. Have one tablespoon of Gulkand with milk during summer.
9) Prevents body odour
Gulkand even prevents excessive perspiration as it provides a cooling effect, thereby reducing the foul body smell. The antimicrobial properties inhibit the accumulation of bacteria that lead to foul body odour.
10) Helps sleep better
Eating Gulkand is highly beneficial if you have trouble sleeping or have a disturbed sleep cycle. It is a natural coolant that helps get restful sleep while keeping your mind and body calm.
Gulkand Benefits for Hair
Hectic lifestyle and work pressure have made hair loss a prominent issue in individuals nowadays.
Gulkhand provides a soothing effect, reduces stress, and improves blood circulation. It strengthens the hair follicles, boosting hair growth naturally.
Gulkand Benefits for Skin
Gulkand improves the natural blood purifying process, which helps in removing unwanted toxins from the blood. Its cooling and soothing effect reduces skin inflammation and eye redness.
Gulkand Benefits for Weight Loss
When you consider the nutrient content of Gulkand, it has no fats, which makes it a preferable option to include in your diet. Moreover, the rich carbohydrates keep one energised, thereby lowering frequent snack and sugar cravings.
How to Make Gulkand
- Take 35-40 fresh roses with tight-packed petals.
- Pluck the petals, wash them, and pat them dry over a muslin cloth.
- In a wide-mouthed jar, arrange the rose petals and pour one tablespoon of sugar over them. Repeat the layers until you use all the petals.
- You can sprinkle crushed cardamom to enhance the taste.
- One can even use honey or jaggery instead of sugar to make a healthy version of Gulkand.
- Tightly pack it with the lid and place it in direct sunlight for 7-10 days.
- Once prepared, use and store it in the refrigerator.
Side Effects of Gulkand
Generally, the side effects of Gulkand are negligible but there can be a Gulkhand disadvantage for people with diabetes. Diabetic patients should avoid consuming it as it contains high sugar. If non-diabetic people face issues after consuming Gulkand, they might be either allergic to the ingredients or may have other issues. In such a case, consult the doctor as soon as possible.
Summing Up On Gulkand Benefits
Gulkand, a sweet preserve of rose petals, is an ayurvedic medicine and traditional Indian recipe used in the treatment of skin disorders, constipation, gastritis, ulcers, indigestion, dysmenorrhea, acne, foul body odor, palpitations, hypertension, nosebleeds, stress, etc. Gullkand is one of the healthiest foods you can eat. In addition to improving your health, it's also great for your skin.
FAQs
Can We Take Gulkand Daily?
Yes, gulkand can be taken daily. Especially during summers, gulkand helps beat the heat. It is one of the best ways to feel refreshed during summers! Gulkand is a unique kitchen secret that you cannot miss out on.
Can Gulkand Be Taken With Milk?
Yes, gulkand can be taken with milk. In fact, gulkand with milk has various benefits. It is an excellent dose of calcium, helps improve your digestive system, acts as a natural coolant, reduces stress, and gives you beautiful skin.
Can We Store Gulkand in Fridge?
YES, gulkand can be stored in the fridge. It is recommended to store gulkand in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this way, it can last for months.
