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We have crimson as our national color, cow as our national animal, Lophophorus as our national bird. Similarly, Khukuri as our national weapon, Rhododendron as our national flower and national anthem as well but do we have a national fruit? Due to the prevalence of different geographical condition wide varieties of vegetation, plants, trees, herbs and fruits are found in Nepal. But we do not have any fruit that we can call national fruit of Nepal. We enjoy varieties of fruits based on seasons and we always love fruits that are available in our localities.
Also, not to forget, golden Himalayan raspberry (Aiselu in Nepali) (Rubus ellipticus) is unofficially designated as National fruit of Nepal.
Aiselu (Himalyan Raspberry) (Rubus ellipticus) – Unofficial National Fruit of Nepal
Aiselu, commonly known as Himalyan raspberry is Asian fruit found in most parts of Himilayan region of Nepal. These small yet juicy fruit are found in the wilderness has a taste that lingers in your mouth.
Golden himalyan raspberry is a seasonal fruit with bushy plant that blooms with its yellow fruit in spring (during Chaitra- Baishakh months). It is found in shady and wet place in temperate climate and can grow in open and abandoned land as well. It is perishable as is to be consumed instantly. The berry juice is useful in treating cough, fevers, and sore throats. It is native to Nepal, China , Indian Subcontinent, Indochina, and the Philippines.
Lapsi (Log Plum)
Did you know “Lapsi” was believed to be fruit found only in Nepal back 10 years? I explicitly remember reading in GK book. Maybe most of you also might have read the same. but is it true?
Log plum commonly known as “Lapsi”in Nepal, belongs to species Spondias Mombin with its scientific name Choerospondias Axillaris. It is juicy with full of sour texture inside a thicker skin.
Lapsi is rich in antioxidants and is quiet beneficial for health. it is rich in vitamin C, iron, amino acids,arginine (106mg/100gm), potassium (305mg/100gm), magnesium, calcium (57mg/100gm), protects against heart diseases. The existence of Lapsi in Nepal dates way back in history. The “Sleshmantak Ban” around Pashupatinath Temple as said in”Swasthani Book” is a forest of Lapsi. Hence, the myth about the lapsi. The tree is native to Nepal, india, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Peru and other countries. Lapsi is a deciduous tree up to 20 meters tall. the tree is valuable for its fruit and wood and seeds which are burned for fuel. Is is most commonly used in Nepal to make pickles(achar) and mada(dried titaura), sour candies, fruit tart and spicy titauras and also used with other foods to add the sour texture. It is also known for its medicinal valus in Vietnam.The price of lapsi ranges from Rs 30 to Rs 80 per kg depending on the seasons and its availability.
Kimbu (Mul Berry)
Kimbu known as Mul Berry are small red, white berries found in tall trees in warmer temperature. Ripe white berries are sweet while red berries turn black when they are ripe.
They can be eaten directly just as they are but adding species’ like slat, powered chilly, lemon as garnish will create as side dish, we call it “Sadeko Kaplal”. Sadeko Kaphal/ Kimbu is just Wow! (Some Nepales also call Mul berry as “Kapha” and Bur berry as “Hade Kaphal”)
Bel (Wood Apple)
Bel is found in temperate and very warm parts of Nepal. Bel are fruits with very hard cover round in shape like cricket balls. They can be eaten fresh or dried. Ripe Bel are tasty. Bel has its unique traditional importance as it is used in herbal medicines to cure digestive problems, eyes, heart and memory. In Hindu culture, bel is scared fruit and has its religious importance. Dried Bel is worshiped at home temples every day. Bel leaves as used in worshiping Lord Shiva as his favorite flower.
Bel has its distinct importance in Newari culture as well. Girly in their childhood before they reach the age of puberty, are married to Bel. The scared marriage to Bel is of prior importance and that particular Bel is kept safely by their grandparents or elders. As long as their Bel is safe even if their husband in another marriage is dead they will not be widowed. Bel Bibhawa is of prior importance and other marriage is secondary.
these are interesting fruits of Nepal and all the other foods are also found in Nepal. What do you think the national fruit of Nepal should be? Please comment and give your suggestions.
