Harpharori / हरफ़रौरी / Star Gooseberry / Phyllanthus acidus

Other Names

Status & Habitat

Habitat: Shrub or small tree
Occurrence: Tropical and subtropical regions; often found in home gardens, along roadsides, and in mixed forests
Season of Availability: Fruit is available year-round, with peak seasons depending on local climate conditions
Geography: Native to tropical regions of the world; widely cultivated in various parts of Asia, the Pacific Islands, and tropical America
Method of Propagation: Seeds or cuttings
Part used for Propagation: Seeds or mature cuttings

Edible Parts: Fruit and young leaves
Can be Eaten Raw: Yes, the fruit can be eaten raw when ripe, and young leaves can be used in salads.

Raw: The fruit can be eaten raw, though it is often quite tart and may be consumed with sugar or salt.
Ripe: The fruit is typically consumed when fully ripe; young leaves can be eaten fresh.
Both Raw & Ripe: The fruit can be used both raw and ripe; leaves are usually eaten fresh.
Dangerous Form to Consume: The fruit is sour and may cause irritation if consumed in large quantities raw; care should be taken to consume it in moderation.
As Food: The fruit is used in jams, juices, and pickles; young leaves are used in salads and soups.
As Medicine: The fruit and leaves are traditionally used for their digestive, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties.
Cooking Method: The fruit can be cooked into jams, jellies, or added to savory dishes; leaves are used fresh or in cooking.
Preservation / Curing Technique: Fruit can be preserved by making jams or pickles; leaves are used fresh.
Does Require Another Plants to be cooked together: No specific requirement, but often used with spices or other fruits in culinary preparations.
Souring Agents Required: Not typically required; the natural tartness of the fruit is usually sufficient.

Nutritional Benefit: Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. Provides essential nutrients and supports overall health.
Medicinal Benefit: Traditionally used to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and detoxify the body.

Tribal Wisdom: The fruit and leaves are used in traditional medicine for various ailments and are valued for their nutritional benefits. The tree is also known for its environmental benefits.

Tribal Recipe / Usage: The fruit is made into preserves, chutneys, and pickles; young leaves are used in salads and traditional dishes. The fruit can also be used in beverages and as a flavoring agent in cooking.