HEALTH TIP

Star Fruit

 Star fruit also known as Carambola, belongs to species Averrhoa Carambola. It is widely grown in Asia and is native to Philippines, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

This fruit when cut horizontally looks like a star and hence the name. Today it is cultivated in Latin America, Caribbean and some parts of the US.
In different countries, this fruit is savored in a different fashion. Star fruit is best eaten raw but can be consumed in the form of Jams, jellies, and juice.

 The star fruit has five lobes covered in an edible waxy yellow skin. The flavor of the yellow flesh is reminiscent of citrus fruit and varies from quite sour to mildly sweet, depending upon the variety. Some contain small dark seeds in the center.

Carambolas are now a fledgling commercial crop with most being grown in Florida. Prime harvesting season is from late summer to early winter, although some will bear fruit year-round in tropical moderate locations. Those with tinges of green on the lobes may be further ripened at room temperature.

Health Benefits of Star Fruit

- Star fruit may lower cholesterol levels and add bulk and moisture to feces.

- A decoration of leaves and roots (prepared separately or in combination) can help cure headaches, ringworm, and chickenpox.

- The fruit is known to cure hangovers and prickly heat. You can also use the pickled fruit for hangover just take one piece of the pickled fruit, steam in water and serve.

- The fruit has also been used to treat sore eyes.

- The star fruit is given to nursing mothers as it is commonly believed to stimulate the flow of milk.