Khirni is synonymous with summer for me, and while my relationship with the season is complicated, I truly value the vibrant array of produce it brings-from gavthi cucumbers to rose apples and much more.
Out of all those colourful fruits, today I am writing about a very interesting golden yellow wild berry called Khirni or Rayan.
Scientific Name
Manilkara hexandra
Local names of Khirni
- Ceylon Iron Wood, Milky Tree (English)
- Khirni, Khhini, Rayan (Hindi/Gujarati);
- Karni, Ranjana (Konkani/Marathi);
- Ksheerni, Rajni (Bengali);
- Krini or Palamunpala (Malayalam);
- Hale, Hannu (Kanada);
- Kanupala, Palai (Tamil);
- Palechettu, Kirni (Telegu)
Availability
Mainly grown in the regions of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, it is only available from early to mid-summer i.e. Around April-mid May though some vendors do sell those even until late May.
These berries are often sold by small vendors who sell purple Jamun, phalsa, or other wild berries in vata ie. small portion sizes, and rarely available online.
Appearance, Taste, and Texture
These tiny one-seeded berries are oval, around 2 cm long, and bright yellow with a smooth surface. They are sweet and astringent to taste, but leave a sticky after-feel in the mouth.
Nutritional Benefits
Some of the research done on this fruit states that it is a good source of antioxidants and hence has health benefits. It is said to cure fevers, heal skin infections, relieve dizziness, vomiting, intestinal worms and stomach ulcers. It also acts as an appetizer and aphrodisiac.
Apart from the fruit itself, even the leaves, bark, seeds, and seeds of these plants have medicinal and other uses making this tree valuable.
The Khirni Tree is valued for its medicinal properties as per Unani medicine. Almost all parts of its trees are used. It is used for antiviral, antiulcer, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, antimicrobial, antifertility, and antiarthritic activity.
Culinary Use
Normally Khirni is consumed as it is but it can be used in a variety of dishes like-
- Jam
- Milkshakes
- Desserts.
Thx fr good amt of info.
i am from Vijayawada, can any one let me know how can i get 1 kg of such fruits of milky tree friuts by courier
contact me. will send but the the thing is – how will it stay fresh for 2 days
whatsap 9314526516
These fruits are available in panvel
one of my acquaintance had got it for me yesterday
पनवेल मध्य कुठे भेटेल
after so many years i bought few of them and it’s really delicious, brought my childhood memories back..if anyone wants seeds i can send, i have preserved them as of now but don’t know how long these seeds can stay in good condition
I stay in Hyderabad, I am looking for this fruit since 3 months, can I get this anywhere in Hyderabad or anyone help me to get the contact number of vendor, i can atleast ask them to send me a courtier. i need this one in some urgency.
Unfortunately, I am not aware. If I do find out will definitely let you know.
Meanwhile, I hope you find some soon
i can send to u
is it available in mysuru
Unfortunately, I am not aware.
Hi, Could you help to locate this fruit in pune area.
You will have to check the availability in the local markets during summer
I am looking for Khirni seed since last 1 year but I can’t find it, I live in Patna, how can I get its seed?
Please reach out to the nearest agriculture college or seed bank for the same
What is the English word for Rayan(Khirni)
your contact plz. or please call me at 9603546984
We have same rayan tree at our home and we got this delicious fruit.
Available at my native place
Hi Aditi
May I know where can I get this fruit? It doesn’t seem to be available online.
You will soon find it in the local Markets in Mumbai, Gujarat. This is the season for this fruit.
First I had this fruit when I was 7 year old in Aurangabad/ Daultabad in a Shrine , this fruit tree was there.
We moved to Hyderabad next year and never saw that fruit but always remember of its taste. Now I am 70 years and found this Pune region has more of it in local market. Just type khirni and google it, you getall info
Hi, i was searching for it for the last few years luckily i got it today @ 300/- per kg from a road side vendor as i was driving pass Mumbai’s Dadar West kabootar khana.
stay safe stay blessed 😊
Thats great. Happy eating
Can I eat rayan (khirni) during 7 n half month pregnancy?
There is not enough literature/studies on impact of consumption of Rayan during pregnancy hence I can’t say much. Let me find out and I will let you know