Health Benefits of Udara/Agbalumo (African Star Apple)

The white star apple or African cherry is a dark yellowish fruit with semi-circle seeds, a popular seasonal fruit normally consumed with its flesh. Botanically called “chrysophyllum albidum,” the fruit is mostly cultivated in the rural areas and is very common during the months of December to April.

The fruit is mostly found in African countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, Cote d’ Ivorie, Uganda and Niger Republic. However  in Nigeria the white star apple is popularly referred to as Agbalumo and Udara by the Yoruba’s and Igbo respectively.

This wonderful fruit is picked by Africans on their way to the farm, during the era of our forefathers. But nowadays you get it from the marketplace as it has become a source of income to the people mostly living in the rural areas. During white star apple season you will see both adult and children savoring the great taste of this indigenous fruit.

Here are some  health benefits of the white star apple. Just in case you don’t know, the African cherry is highly nutritional and can help a lot in many ways

High Vitamin C Content.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin. Unlike most mammals and other animals, humans do not have the ability to make ascorbic acid and must obtain vitamin C from their diet. Agbalumo presents a good source for vitamin C , 100g gram gives 25mg of vitamin C.

Natural Anti-Oxidant
Antioxidants are substances that may protect your cells against the effects of free radicals — molecules produced when your body breaks down food or is exposed to tobacco smoke and radiation. What this means is that by consumption of agbalumo you give your body a better chance of fighting and avoiding heart disease, cancer etc.

Low Calorie fruit.

A serving of agbalumo contains just 67 calories. This fruit is very good for those who want to loose weight because you consume more and get less calories intake. It is also a good snacking fruit which can be used to stop hunger pangs.

Natural Remedy
The agbalumo/udara is a natural remedy for toothache, constipation, sore throat, and much more. Also the bark of the tree according to research was used traditionally to treat yellow fever and malaria, while the leaf treated wounds, stomach ache, and diarrhea.  In some parts of Nigeria the seeds are used to treat vaginal and skin infections.

Prevents Heart Disease.
Frequent consumption of the fruit can help lower blood sugar and cholesterol thereby preventing or managing heart diseases.it is a very good recommendation for patient with heart problems.

As with all fruits and food, moderation is key. Do not consume Agbalumo excessively because it could lead to heartburn. Before including it in your diet, ensure you contact your physician.