If you thought that mountain apple is the variant of an apple that grows in the hills and mountains, then you are mistaking. Mountain apple, also known as rose apple, shares a closer relation with guava rather than apples. While there are numerous variants available, the most popular one comes with the botanical name of Syzygium jambos. A small tree, it is quite invasive and can grow anywhere. It is quite popular as an ornamental plant across the world. Yet, the lesser known fact is that the small fruits of this plant are actually packed with certain goodness for the entire mankind.
Known as Chambakka in Malayalam and Jambu in other parts of India, this is a fiber-rich fruit that looks akin to a small bell hanging from the tree. They grow in clusters and taste slightly sour, followed by a sweet note.
Serving Size: 100 mg
Per ServingCalories56Fat0.3 gProtein0.5 gCarbohydrates14.2 gFiber2 gCalcium45.2 mgMagnesium4 mgPhosphorous30 mgIron1.2 mgSodium34.1 mgPotassium50 mgSulfur13 mgCarotene235 I.U.Thiamine0.19 mgRiboflavin0.05 mgNiacin0.75 mgAscorbic Acid37 mgRight from being a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent to antipyretic, these tiny fruits also possess anti-cancerous and anti-seizure properties. While no extensive studies have been done on this fruit and its benefits, there are certain interesting benefits associated with mountain apples.
Rose apples are sources of jambosine, an alkaloid that has the potential to regulate and even impede the starch to sugar conversion process. While more evidences are required to establish this, it is unarguably good news for the diabetics and those at the risk of developing it.
Despite being small in size, these fruits are rich in dietary fiber. Including them in your daily diet will ensure that your digestive process stays intact. At the same time, it will keep away constipation and facilitate smooth movement of bowels.
Traditional medicine suggests the use of mountain apple seeds to prevent and cure dysentery and diarrhea. Soak the seeds of this fruit in water filled in an airtight container for 5 days. Ground to a fine paste and use it once at the time of diarrhea to ensure quicker relief.
Vitamin A and Vitamin C present in these fruits are powerful antioxidants. These antioxidants curb the free radicals that could cause oxidative damage to cells and trigger the onset of risk. While certain ancient medical literatures and research shed some light into the anti-cancerous properties of this fruit, more evidences are required to substantiate these findings.
There was a time when my grandma used to make me smell the flowers of mountain rose when I was down with fever. And, it does wonders. The aroma of these flowers is a better antipyretic than our favorite over-the-counter drug – Paracetamol.
A decoction prepared from rose apple may be used to flush out the toxins from the kidneys and liver. While keeping the vital organs clear, it also ensures that the overall health gets a boost.
Ancient medical texts suggest that soaked and powdered seeds of mountain apple are excellent and effective medications for anemia.
The lush presence of nutrients and fiber in mountain apples is known to possess the power to curb the escalation of cholesterol levels. Once the cholesterol levels are tamed, you are safe from the risk of assorted cardiovascular complications, such as coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, strokes, and myocardial infarction.
A good source of Vitamin C this tiny fruit is a potential immunity boosting agent. Regular consumption of mountain apples could improve your immunity power and safeguard you from infections, cold, and other diseases.
Packed with fiber, this fruit has zero fat and sugar levels. This enables it to be a power-packed snack option for those trying to shed excess weight.
Here are some more health benefits of rose apples:
Though the roots and seeds are used as per ancient medical texts, they are also known to be toxic. Moreover, mountain apples contain cyanide as well. Consult your doctor before trying this out to keep unwanted conditions at bay.
Have you ever used mountain apples? Share your experience with us in the comments section.