African Star Apple

African star apple, also known as Agbalumo or Udara in Nigeria and other West African countries, is a fruit that grows on a tree native to tropical Africa. The scientific name for the tree is Chrysophyllum albidum. The fruit is round and usually green or orange when ripe, with a leathery skin that can be easily peeled.

The inside of the African star apple has a juicy and translucent pulp that surrounds a seed or seeds. The taste is a mix of sweet and tangy flavors, and it’s often enjoyed as a refreshing snack. In some regions, people also make drinks or jams from the fruit.

African star apples are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritious choice. They are a seasonal fruit and are typically available during certain times of the year.

Types Of African Star Apple

There are a few different types of African star apples, each with its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Here are some common types of African star apples:

1. Chrysophyllum albidum var. albidum

This is the most common variety of African star apple. It has a green or yellowish-green skin when ripe and a sweet-tart flavor. The flesh is usually creamy white or light pink.

2. Chrysophyllum albidum var. rubrum

This variety has an orange or reddish skin when ripe and tends to be sweeter than the green variety. The flesh can range from pale pink to deep red, and it’s known for its vibrant color and sweetness.

3. Chrysophyllum albidum var. acuminatum

This variety is smaller in size and has a slightly elongated shape compared to the typical round African star apple. It has a green or yellowish-green skin and a sweet-tart flavor.

4. Chrysophyllum albidum var. pubescens

Also known as “velvet star apple,” this variety has a fuzzy or velvety skin. The skin can range from green to orange when ripe, and the flesh is usually white or light pink.

These are just a few examples of the variations of African star apples that exist. The taste and appearance can vary depending on the specific variety and the region in which they are grown. Each type of African star apple has its own appeal and is enjoyed by people in different ways.

Nutritional Value of African Star Apple

African star apples, also known as Agbalumo or Udara, are a good source of various nutrients and can offer several health benefits.

Nutritional value of African star apples per 100 grams of edible portion contains:

• Calories: 67 calories
• Carbohydrates: 18 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 3.4 grams
• Sugars: 14 grams
• Vitamin C: 25 milligrams (about 42% of the Daily Value)
• Calcium: 13 milligrams
• Phosphorus: 26 milligrams
• Iron: 1 milligram
• Potassium: 131 milligrams
• Vitamin A: 2 micrograms

According to Roma and Christine, 2022, 100 grams of fresh African star apple pulp contains:

• protein: 3.9 to 4.1 grams
• fat: 5.5 to 5.6 grams
• fiber: 4.1 to 4.5 grams
• carbohydrates: 8.0 to 10.4 grams
• calories: 116.5 to 122.6
• potassium: 666.21 to 700.81 milligrams
• calcium: 365.50 to 425.00 milligrams
• phosphorus: 211 to 228 milligrams
• zinc: 8.24 to 8.27 milligrams
• vitamin C: 86.80 to 99.63 milligrams
• beta-carotene: 336.27 to 347.47
• iron: 2.23 to 2.29 milligrams.

African star apples are particularly notable for their high vitamin C content, which supports the immune system, aids in collagen formation, and acts as an antioxidant.

Keep in mind that the nutritional content can vary slightly based on factors like the specific variety of African star apple and its ripeness. While these fruits offer beneficial nutrients, they are typically consumed in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet due to their natural sugar content.

20 Amazing Health Benefits of African Star Apple

African star apples, also known as Agbalumo or Udara, offer a range of potential health benefits due to their nutrient content and natural compounds. Here are some of the benefits associated with consuming African star apples:

1. Rich in Vitamin C

African star apples are a good source of vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant. African star apple is improves healthy immune system, controls collagen production, protects the heart, heals wounds, enhances vision, decreases blood sugar levels, and provides antioxidant protection against cell damage.

The antioxidant properties in Vitamin C helps to neutralize the harmful effect of free radicals and prevent fatal diseases like heart disease and cancer. Consuming African star apple is a quick way to get Vitamin C because it is one of those foods with a high vitamin C content.

2. Antioxidant Properties

Antioxidants helps to detoxify the body by destroying free radicals, which can cause oxidative damage to cells. The fruit of African star apples contains antioxidants such as vitamin C and phytochemicals that helps to get rid of free radicals, thereby protecting the cells and organs from oxidative stress and damage. It also reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

3. Dietary Fiber

The dietary fiber in African star apples supports healthy digestion, aids in regular bowel movements, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness, which may help with weight management. The dietary fiber in African star apples can help manage blood sugar levels.

4. Lower Blood Sugar Levels

African star apple pulp can lower blood sugar levels in the blood and act as an effective dietary supplement to prevent diabetes. The fiber content in African star apples can help stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of sugars from the digestive tract. It also contains powerful antioxidants that can fight oxidative damage and prevent diabetes.

5. Heart Health

African star apples are excellent source of antioxidants such as flavonoids and vitamin E, C, and A. They help to prevent oxidative damage of cells and also promote heart health. The potassium content in African star apples can help regulate blood pressure. Additionally, the dietary fiber contributes to heart health by reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues. The anti-inflammatory properties in African star apples can help prevent heart disease and stroke.

6. Bone And Teeth Health

African star apples contain minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which are important for maintaining strong bones and teeth. The regular consumption of African star apples can significantly strengthen bones and prevents bone diseases.

7. Digestive Health

The fiber content in the fruit supports a healthy gut environment, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and helping prevent constipation.

8. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

African star apple fruits are abundant in anti-inflammatory compounds like flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenols, that may help reduce inflammation in your body and prevent inflammation-related conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and heart problems.

9. Improve Memory and Brain Function

African star apples can improve memory and brain function. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in African star apples can reverse the damage caused by lipopolysaccharides and restored brain function. Lipopolysaccharides can affect memory and cognition by increasing oxidative damage, inflammation, and chemical activities in the brain.

10. Vitamin A

While in smaller amounts, African star apples provide a bit of vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function.

11. Weight Management

African star apple is an excellent fruit to take when trying to lose weight. It helps to manage weight loss, due to its low-fat content. The high amount of dietary fiber in African star apples improves satiety, making you feel full even after a long time. African star apples are relatively low in calories, making them a suitable choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake and for those trying to lose weight

12. Antimicrobial Properties

The seeds extract from African star apple have antibacterial and antifungal properties. African star apple fruit contains phytochemicals such as eleagnine, skatole, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids. These phytochemicals possess antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus, Salmonella typhimurium, Shigella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Aspergillus niger, E. coli, and C. albicans. However, more research should be conducted to determine dosage and effect on humans.

13. Prevents Cancer

African star apples are excellent source of pectin fiber, beta-carotene and vitamin E antioxidants, that can prevent different types of cancer, such as colorectal cancer. They play an important role in preventing the growth of cancerous cells. It also contains powerful antioxidants that can fight oxidative damage and can also prevent cancer growth.

14. Lowers Bad Cholesterol Levels

High levels of bad cholesterol can increase the risk of developing blockage in arteries. Leading to heart problems and stroke. The fruits of African star apple are a rich source of saponins, that can bind to bad cholesterol and prevents it from entering the bloodstream. African star apples contain high levels of pectin fiber, that can increase good cholesterol levels. The high levels of vitamin C in African star apples can increase the good cholesterol levels.

15. Boosts Immune System

The Vitamin C in African star apples can help produce collagen that promotes immune health. Regular consumption of Africa Star apple can boost your immunity due to vitamin C and carotene. African star apples are rich in vitamin A, Vitamin B1 and vitamin B2 supports good functioning of your immune and nervous system.

16. Prevents Anemia

Regular consumption of African star apples contains high iron content, which is vital for the body to produce hemoglobin and prevent iron deficiency which is called anemia. Anemia can result to dizziness, loss of appetite, weakness, rapid heartbeat, headache, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

17. Good For Pregnant Women

The African Star Apple is good for most pregnant women. The acidic taste of African Star apple helps prevents the urge of vomiting and spitting during pregnancy. African Star apple also helps pregnant women in treating sore throat, reduce constipation, and indigestion.

18. Natural Remedies

The sweet and sour taste of African Star Apple acts as a natural remedy for constipation, toothache sore throat, and indigestion. The roots, bark and leaves of African Star Apple are been used by herbal practitioners in the treatment of certain common ailments such as cough, yellow fever, high blood pressure etc. The bark of the tree is used to treat yellow fever and malaria, while the leaves are used to treat wounds, stomachache, and diarrhea.

19. Fertility

The extract of the plant of African Star Apple can increase follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and estrogen concentrations, restoring folliculogenesis and estrous cycle to normal. African Star Apple contains vitamins C, vitamin E, selenium, potassium and magnesium, may help to improve fertility, which are great for women who are trying to conceive and those that are already pregnant. The presence of zinc and potassium in African Star Apple can boost male fertility in men.

20. Promotes Skin Health

African star apple is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and carotenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, which help reduce free radical damage, reduce sun damage, wrinkles, inflammation and maintain overall skin health.

In Conclusion: It’s important to note that while African star apples offer these potential benefits, they are typically enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. As with any dietary changes or supplements, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have specific health conditions or concerns.

Top 14 Uses of African Star Apple

African star apples, known as Agbalumo or Udara, are not only delicious but also versatile in their uses.

Here are top 14 uses of African star apples

1. Fresh Snacking: African star apples are often enjoyed as a fresh and flavorful snack. Simply peel the skin and eat the juicy pulp directly.
2. Juices and Smoothies: The tangy and sweet flavor of African star apples can be used to make juices, smoothies, or blended drinks. Combine the pulp with water or other fruits for a refreshing beverage.
3. Jams and Preserves: The pulp of Agbalumo can be cooked down into jams, jellies, or preserves, preserving the unique flavor for later enjoyment.
4. Sauces and Syrups: The pulp can be used to make sauces or syrups for drizzling over desserts, pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.
5. Flavoring: The tangy and citrusy flavor of Agbalumo can be used to add a unique twist to various dishes, such as sauces, dressings, and marinades.
6. Desserts: Incorporate the pulp into desserts like puddings, custards, or tarts to add a distinctive flavor.
7. Teas and Infusions: The pulp can be infused in hot water to make a flavorful and aromatic tea.
8. Candies and Snacks: African star apples can be dried and turned into candied snacks or chips.
9. Blended into Yogurt: Mix the pulp into yogurt to add a burst of flavor and natural sweetness.
10. Ice Cream and Sorbet: African star apple pulp can be used to flavor homemade ice creams or sorbets.
11. Alcoholic Beverages: The flavor of Agbalumo can be used to infuse alcoholic beverages like cocktails or liqueurs.
12. Cooking: In some cultures, the pulp of African star apples is added to soups and stews to impart a tangy flavor.
13. Medicinal Uses: In traditional medicine, various parts of the African star apple tree are used for their potential health benefits, such as the bark for treating ailments.
14. Natural Fresheners: The aromatic scent of African star apples is used as a natural air freshener.

In conclusion

These are just a few examples of how African star apples can be used. The fruit’s unique taste and aroma make it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.

How To Prepare and Eat African Star Apple

Eating African star apples (Agbalumo or Udara) is a delightful experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare and enjoy this unique and delicious fruit:

1. Select Ripe African Star Apples: Choose African star apples that are ripe and have a vibrant color. Ripe fruits are usually slightly soft when gently pressed near the stem.
2. Wash the Fruits: Before consumption, wash the fruits thoroughly under cool, running water to remove any dirt or residue from the skin.
3. Peel the Skin: Use your fingers or a small knife to gently peel the skin of the African star apple. The skin should come off easily. Be careful not to squish the fruit while peeling.
4. Remove the Seeds: African star apples have seeds or a seed cluster in the center. You can either gently pull the seeds out with your fingers or cut around the seed cluster to remove it.
5. Enjoy the Pulp: Once the skin and seeds are removed, you’re left with the juicy and tangy pulp of the African star apple. Simply eat the pulp directly to enjoy its unique flavor.
6. Use in Recipes: If you’d like to use the pulp in recipes, you can blend it to make juices, smoothies, jams, or sauces. The pulp can be a flavorful addition to various dishes.
7. Share and Enjoy: African star apples are often enjoyed as a shared snack with friends or family. They can be a fun and social treat.

8 Dispose of Seeds and Skin: Properly discard the seeds and any parts of the fruit you don’t consume

Remember that the skin, seeds, and any parts of the fruit you don’t eat should be properly discarded. African star apples are best enjoyed when they are ripe and at their peak of flavor.

Source

1. Health Benefits of African Star Apple. Roma Kunde and Christine Mikstas. June 28, 2022. https://www.webmd.com/diet/benefits-of-african-star-apple.
2. 8 Amazing Facts and Health Benefits of Star Apple. https://www.finelib.com/about/tropical-fruits-and-vegetablesT/8-amazing-facts-and-health-benefits-of-star-apple/225.
3. 5 interesting health benefits of Agbalumo (African star apple). Adaobi Onyeakagbu. March 31st 2023. https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/5-interesting-health-benefits-of-agbalumo-african-star-apple/vrb529q.
4. African Star Apple Fruit: Major Health benefits of Chrysophyllum albidum (Agbalumo, Udara, cherry). Titilayo Kupoliyi. March 2022. By https://pharmchoices.com/african-star-apple-fruit-main-health-benefits-of/.
5. 12 HEALTH BENEFITS OF AFRICAN STAR APPLE YOU MAY NOT KNOW. 23 January 2018. https://liciaglowinghealth.blogspot.com/2018/01/12-health-benefits-of-african-star.html?m=1.