The Ultimate Superfood Delicacy: A Gift of Nature, Priced at 300,000 VND per kg.

Ninh Thuan boasts a unique delicacy derived from the Sterculia foetida tree, commonly known as the gum tree. This tree, native to tropical countries such as India, Australia, Thailand, and the Philippines, produces a sap with distinct properties and myriad health benefits: gum tragacanth.

Gum tragacanth is a translucent, thick sap exuded from the tree’s bark. With a chewy, jelly-like consistency, it serves as a versatile ingredient in beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. The tree requires 4 to 7 years of growth before it can yield this valuable sap. Harvesters carefully scrape the bark and make incisions or bore holes in the trunk, from which the tree secretes the sap after a few days.

In the market, gum tragacanth fetches a price ranging from 250,000 to 300,000 VND per kilogram. When consumed, it offers a crunchy, chewy texture and blends well with orange, lemon, and other fruit juices, creating refreshing drinks. During the sweltering summer days, a glass of sweetened gum tragacanth drink is a popular choice for tourists visiting Ninh Thuan, providing a delightful and refreshing experience.

Identifying authentic gum tragacanth is crucial. High-quality gum is typically ivory, pale yellow, or light pink, indicating freshness and the ability to quickly expand when soaked in water. On the other hand, inferior gum appears opaque white or clumpy, suggesting prolonged exposure to air, resulting in a hardened texture. This type of gum is challenging to dissolve and develops an unpleasant sour taste when soaked.

Gum tragacanth is rich in uronic acid (approximately 37%) and essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium. When mixed with cold water at a low concentration (4%-5%), it transforms into a gummy solution.

Health Benefits of Gum Tragacanth

Aids Digestion and Prevents Constipation

Gum tragacanth acts as a natural laxative, effectively relieving constipation. The fiber content expands up to 8-10 times its original volume, absorbing and eliminating toxins from the large intestine. This increases stool bulk and improves bowel movement, facilitating detoxification and preventing constipation.

Benefits for Diabetics

The fiber in gum tragacanth slows the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, helping stabilize post-meal blood sugar levels. Additionally, it enhances insulin sensitivity, enabling better blood sugar control.

Detoxification and Heat-Clearing Effects

In traditional medicine, gum tragacanth is considered cooling and sweet, offering detoxification and heat-clearing properties. It helps cool the liver, promotes diuresis, and eliminates toxins. Regular consumption can improve liver and kidney function and boost immunity.

Reduces Stress and Enhances Sleep Quality

Gum tragacanth possesses sedative properties, calming the mind and reducing stress and fatigue. Consuming it before bedtime can improve sleep quality, leading to a deeper and more restful slumber.

Supports Weight Loss

Gum tragacanth induces a feeling of fullness, helping control hunger and reduce calorie intake. The fiber content also enhances metabolism, aiding in efficient calorie burning. When combined with a healthy diet and exercise, gum tragacanth can support healthy weight loss.

Ways to Use Gum Tragacanth

Constipation Relief: Mix 15-20g of gum tragacanth with a glass of water and consume once or twice daily for 3-5 days.

Refreshing Drink: Soak 15g of gum tragacanth in warm water until it expands, add a touch of sugar, chill in the refrigerator, and enjoy. Alternatively, blend with ice and your choice of fruit juice for a refreshing beverage.

Energy and Vitality Boost: Soak 15g of gum tragacanth in warm water until it expands, then mix with filtered water, a touch of sugar, and a small amount of ginseng extract. Consume once in the morning and once in the afternoon for an energizing boost.