You are probably used to seeing a different type of Tamarind. These are small plum like balls that are used to make whiskey, or a sweet and sour drink. I am told the tamarind is salted and the water becomes sweet.

In Ayurvedic medicine the juice of the fruit is used as a laxative, eye wash, appetite stimulant, restorative tonic, and to treat anorexia, indigestion, diarrhoea, anaemia and jaundice. Findings by Indian, Pakistani and Japanese researchers show that whether eaten fresh or dried, emblic reduces the risk of cancer and heart disease, and is effective in the treatment of diabetes, liver and respiratory ailments, eye disorders, atherosclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease. Said to be the richest in vitamin C of all fruits, with a content 30 times higher than that in oranges, it improves the immune system and prevents premature ageing.

Resource: http://www.bangkokpost.com/print/328518