Summer Flavors – Erakina

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Plantae

Clade: Tracheophytes

Clade: Angiosperms

Clade: Eudicots

Clade: Asterids

Order: Gentianales

Family: Apocynaceae

Genus: Hemidesmus

Species: H. indicus

Scientific name: Hemidesmus indicus

Introduction

Nannari or just the Indian Sarsaparilla could be a wonder herb that comes into the limelight during Scorching Summers.

You can see small roadside Juice shops in Southern India selling Nannari Sharbat. The vendor would be busy vending Nannari Sharbat and there would always be a protracted queue for the drink. The smell of fresh Limes and therefore the intrinsic smell of Nannari strikes a chord in my memory of our trips to Pooram/Vela in our family Temple in Palaghat a fast drink prepared by the vendor by huddling out some spoons of Nannari Syrup into a tall glass topped up with crushed Ice so he would squeeze out half a lemon along with his Lemon Juicer and there comes the ultimate touch the ceremonial musical melody, a Ting Ting Ting sound made while making the drink with a spoon. 

Nannari may be a wonder herb that might be available in handy during Summers. Since ancient days our Ancestors had known the cooling property of this herb and have used it to treat common summer ailments caused because of heat. The normal way of using this root is by making a Syrup with Nannari Roots, Nannari Syrup is then mixed with Lime/Lemon juice – the famous Nannari Lemon Sharbat. In the olden days, it absolutely was a typical practice to feature some pieces of Nannari Roots in large earthen pots used for storing drinks. Some even use another herb called Vetiver for the aim. These roots emanated a wonderful aroma into the water catering for its benefits alongside.

The outer part of the Nannari Root is Brown and therefore the inner part is slightly whiter in shade. Nannari Roots have an exquisite aroma with an astringent taste. Only the outer part of the base is employed while preparing the Nammari Syrup. The inner part is discarded.

This is not a standard ingredient found in Grocery Stores or Supermarkets. In India, it’s sold in Nattu Marundhu Kadai(local Apothecary) or Ayurvedic shops. Whereas Nannari Syrup is available in most of the shops. In Coimbatore there’s a little shop near 5 Corner where an old man sells Nannari Sharbat, Rose Milk etc., it’s from him that we usually fill up Nannari Syrup and Rose Syrup. It’s one thing I usually latch on packed from home. I recently got some packets of Nannari Roots from Indian Stores which is the reason behind this post and my homemade Nannari Syrup.

Health benefits of Nannari

Nannari root may be a wonder herb with numerous health benefits. For hundreds of years, people have used the basis as a body coolant, for treating joint & skin problems. It was also believed to cure Leprosy because it could be a natural blood purifier.

• Body Coolant – Nannari Root may be a natural body coolant. it’s commonly accustomed to settling down the vital sign during Summer. It’s also known to shield the body from dehydration.
• Blood Purifier – Nannari is thought of as a natural Blood Purifier. It also helps to extend the immunity of the body and increases energy. It was once believed to cure Leprosy.

• Digestion – Nannari benefits in treating stomach disorders. It also aids in digestion and also helps to extend the appetite
• Stomach Health – The medicinal properties in Nannari helps to alleviate Constipation and also treats Acidity.
• Treats Skin Problems – Because it could be a Blood Purifier, it helps in treating Skin Problems like Psoriasis, Eczema & Dermatitis
• Treats Joint Problems – Nannari could be a potent anti-inflammatory. This factor makes it beneficial in treating inflammatory conditions like autoimmune disease, other causes of Joint Pain and therefore the swellings caused by Gout.
• Protects the Liver – Compounds rich in flavonoids are found in Nannari that helps to reverse the damage of the Liver and helps it function at its best. It’s also best for treating inflammations in the Liver & Spleen.

Culinary usage

• You can add some pieces of Nannari Root into the pot used for storing drinkables.
• Adds an exquisite aroma to the water and also aids with a lot of health benefits.
• The best thanks to using the Nannari Root is to organize Nannari Syrup.
• Add Nannari Syrup to a glass of Cold Water and drink it in and of itself.

• Can add a touch of Lime/Lemon and convert it into a delicious Lemon Nannari Sharbat.
• Combine Nannari Syrup with Soda & Lemon to form a Fizzy Drink.
• Add Nannari Syrup together with Tender coconut milk for a refreshing Nannari Sharbat, 
• Can add flavour to the drink by adding a touch of lime or fruit juice for a tangy citrusy note in it.
• Can combine Nannari Syrup along with your favourite fresh drinkable for amazingly fragrant Fruit Juices.