Health benefits of African star apple (Agbalumo)

African star apple, botanically called chrysophyllum albidum is also known as African cherry fruit and white star apple. It is popularly called Agbalumo in the southwestern part of Nigeria and Udara in the southeastern part of Nigeria. It is associated with the dry season and has been enjoyed over the years by Nigerians as a fruit.

African star apple is mostly cultivated in the rural areas of the country and fully in season from January to April. Naturally, it’s advisable to let the fruit fall to the ground before harvesting but it is common practice for people to pluck it from the tree even when it has not ripened fully. This is one of the major reasons for its sour taste and slapping sensation when it is consumed. However when the fully ripe fruit is consumed, it is sweet, and sensitizes the taste buds of the eater. To crown it up, it is highly nutritious.

Previous studies indicate that the roots, barks and leaves of African star apple have been employed in folk medicine for the treatment of diseases. The bark is used for the treatment of yellow fever and malaria, while the leaf is used as an emollient and for the treatment of skin eruption, stomachache and diarrhea. The cotyledons from the seeds of African star apple are used as ointments in the treatment of vaginal and dermatological infections in Western Nigeria.

African star apples are a rich source of calcium (calcium lends strength to your bones and teeth, and it may also lessen symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as cramping and abdominal bloating). This fruit also contains good amounts of vitamins A and C (higher content of vitamin c than oranges or guava).  100g of the fruit gives 25mg of vitamin C. African star apples are also quite rich in iron (a mineral vital for oxygenating your body, that you need every day).

African star apples are low calorie foods and are rich in dietary fiber. Eating up to 3-5 fruits can give a feeling of being full and keep dieters from over-eating and consequently controlling calorie or food intake thereby helping to control or manage weight. It is also a good snacking fruit which can be used to stop hunger pangs.

Eleagnine was found to be the main compound responsible for its antimicrobial activity. Eleagnine was further shown to exhibit anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. The seed cotyledon has been reported to possess anti-hyperglycemic (lowers high blood sugar) and anti-hyperlipidemic (lower blood cholesterol) effects.

Consumption of African star apple gives your body a better chance of fighting and avoiding heart disease, cancer etc. because it contains natural antioxidants. It is a very good recommendation for patient with heart problems and diabetic patient.

Its antibacterial properties is useful in the relief of tooth abscesses, intestinal/stomach upset, skin infection and diarrhea. Reduction of inflammation associated with laryngitis (sore throat) and pneumonia.

As with all fruits and food, moderation is the key. Do not consume African star apple excessively because it could lead to heartburn.  Enjoy… Don’t forget to share with me.