Star Fruit Health Benefits

The star fruit, also known as the carambola, is a fruit native to Asia. It derives its name from the fact that when it is sliced, the cross section resembles a star. Even though it commonly has 5 sides and therefore when cut resembles a 5 sided star, the fruit can have 6 or 7 ridges. The fruit when ripe is yellow in color.

Star fruit health benefits are numerous. Many of the star fruit health benefits are derived from the fact that they are a rich source of antioxidants. The star fruit contains antioxidants called polyphenols. Polyphenols are useful in the human body because they are known to reduce inflammation. For this reason, the star fruit is said to play a role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and in prevention of certain cancers. Polyphenols have also been linked to slow the aging process in humans and also to prevent skin wrinkling.

Other star fruit health benefits are derived from its anti-microbial properties. As a direct result of these properties, the star fruit has been linked to being effective in treating bacterial infections such as E. coli, salmonella and staphylococcus (staph infections). The anti-microbial properties are dependent on the stage of ripening of the fruit.

Another one of the star fruit health benefits is that the fruit is rich in Vitamin C. Vitamin C is quite commonly linked in fighting colds and flu. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant.

This exotic fruit also has a significant amount of fiber. It is therefore excellent in treating constipation. The fiber content in the star fruit will increase the bulk in human feces. Coupled with the fact that the fruit is low in sodium and low in calories, it is an excellent fruit for anybody watching their weight or trying to lose weight.

The star fruit also contains several other useful minerals and nutrients such as potassium, niacin, Vitamins A and E, calcium, iron and phosphorous. Therefore, other star fruit health benefits include promoting proper nerve function, regulation of thyroid hormones, regulation of sleep, healthy skin and bones, promoting good digestive tract function and many others.

The star fruit is also used to treat headaches, hangovers, fevers, chicken pox, ringworms, sore eyes, nausea, heat stroke and prickly heat.

Even though the star fruit health benefits are many, a cautionary note is necessary. Star fruits, like strawberries, contain oxalic acid which is a toxin. Healthy human beings with normal, functioning kidney are able to remove this toxin through urine. However, people with kidney stones or people suffering from kidney failure are not able to get rid of this toxin as easily. An accumulation of this toxin could lead to mental confusion and convulsions in individuals with these medical conditions.