Vol. 8, Special Issue 10, Part F (2024)

India, one of the mega plant biodiversity centres, endowed with rich fruit heritage. Grewia subinaequalis L. (Phalsa; Family: Tiliacae) native fruit plant of India, grows wild throughout much of India. Hardy bush can be grown as rainfed crop in tropical and arid locations. Nutritious and therapeutic phalsa has been linked to a wide range of health benefits. According to the ancient Indian treatise on medicine Ayurveda, phalsa fruits are cooling tonic and aphrodisiac. Pleasant acid flavoured ripe berries of phalsa contain a high amount of vitamins A, and C approximately (16.11, and 4.38 mg respectively), minerals (Calcium 820.32 mg/100 g, Phosphorous 814.5 mg/100 g and iron 27.10 mg/100 g), and fibre but low in calories, fat and glycaemic index. Throughout the fruiting season in hot summer months, a refreshing fruit drink is prepared, commonly known as phalsa sherbet popular in local areas. Fruit can be made into beverages and value added products and preserved. India can harness its rich biodiversity by promoting the cultivation and value addition of underutilized fruits like phalsa, to strengthen both domestic and international markets.