Fox nuts, also known as makhana or gorgon nut, belong to the genus Euryale, a perennial plant. Native to Eastern Asia, it is a flowering plant that is classified under the family of water lily. This plant grows in water and produces bright purple flowers. The seeds of foxnuts hold a significant importance in India and have a lot of medicinal properties. The edible seeds of Euryale are used in Chinese medication also. Chinese are known to use these seeds in their cuisine.

Normally, these water lilies grow in wetlands, ponds etc. This water plant requires a rich soil and grows in still water. The roots of this plant can extend up to 5 meters deep in the water. Popularly known as makhana, this flowering plant is also found in various parts of India such as - Loktak Lake Manipur and Bihar. They are also found in Korea, Japan and in Eastern parts of Russia. Apart from its medicinal uses, these plants are cultivated in India and China to be used in preparing food items. The Chinese have been cultivating this plant for about 3,000 years.

This plant is majorly cultivated for its edible fruits and starchy white seeds. The fruits of this plant are pulpy and soft, about the size of a small orange, and is used as a cooling tonic in China. Further, the seeds of this fruit can be eaten fresh or dried. Each fruit of this plant contains about 8 to 15 seeds and they are about the size of a pea. These edible seeds are roasted before being eaten.

Some basic facts about Fox nuts:

• Botanical name: Euryale ferox
• Family: Nymphaeaceae
• Common name: Makhana   
• Parts used: The fruit is used as a cooling tonic food in China and the edible seeds are often used in soups by the Chinese.  They can also be roasted before being eaten.
• Native region and geographical distribution: This plant was first cultivated in China about 3000 years ago. It is also found in parts of India, Japan and Korea.
• Interesting fact: In India, Foxnuts, also known as makhanas, hold significance in the religious ceremonies. It is a popular food eaten during Navratri.

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