Are you looking for a tropical fruit that not only tastes great but also has numerous health benefits? Look no further than the kerson fruit, also known as aratiles in Tagalog. This fast-growing tree is native to Central and South America and can now be found in various parts of Asia, including the Philippines. Its bark, leaves, and fruits have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties. In this blog post, we will explore 10 amazing health benefits of kerson fruit that make it a must-try for anyone interested in improving their overall well-being! So let’s dive right into the world of aratiles and discover what makes it so special!
What is Kerson Fruit
Kerson fruit, (aratiles, mansanitas), scientifically known as Muntingia calabura, is a small cherry-like fruit that grows on a fast-growing tree. In the Philippines, it’s commonly referred to as aratiles in Tagalos, and Sirisa in Ilonggo/Hiligaynon. This tree can grow up to 8 meters tall and has smooth bark with oval-shaped leaves that are about 5-15 cm long.
Aratiles itself is small and red with a sweet and tangy flavor that resembles cherries or cranberries. The fruits usually measure around 1-2 centimeters in diameter but can be smaller or larger depending on the variety.
Notably, this tree produces fruits all year round, making it an excellent source of food for birds and other wildlife. It’s also easy to cultivate since it doesn’t require much maintenance.
But Aratiles isn’t just tasty; it’s also packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, iron, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus which provide numerous health benefits when consumed regularly.
Kerson fruit is an amazing tropical gem that offers both nutritional value and delicious taste!
Uses of Kerson Fruit
Kerson fruit is a versatile fruit with numerous uses. The fruit itself can be eaten raw or used to make jams, jellies, and juices. It has a sweet taste similar to cherries and can also be used in desserts such as pies and cakes.
Aside from its culinary uses, kerson leaves have medicinal properties that make them useful for treating various ailments. In traditional medicine, the leaves are brewed into tea and consumed as a natural remedy for coughs, fever, headaches, and even diabetes.
Moreover, kerson fruits are rich in vitamins A and C – both excellent antioxidants that help boost the immune system. They also contain iron which makes them an essential food source for those who suffer from anemia or iron deficiency.
In addition to these benefits, some studies suggest that kerson fruit may have anti-inflammatory effects on the body due to its high anthocyanin content. This could potentially aid in reducing swelling associated with conditions such as arthritis.
In addition, aratiles sometimes used as “pambabad sa lambanog”. The fruits are mixed with coconut wine and left to ferment for a period of time altering the wine’s flavor.
Kerson fruit offers many health benefits beyond just being a tasty snack. Its versatility makes it an ideal ingredient for many recipes while its nutritional value provides important vitamins and minerals necessary for optimal health.
10 Health Benefits of Kerson Fruits
Aratiles might be new to you or you might have been eating them for a long time without knowing their healthy contents so here are the 10 health benefits of kerson fruits.
1) Boosts Immunity – Kerson fruit contains high levels of vitamin C which helps to strengthen the immune system.
2) Reduces Inflammation – The anti-inflammatory properties of kerson fruit can help alleviate pain caused by inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
3) Lowers Blood Sugar Levels – Research suggests that consuming kerson fruit may help regulate blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
4) Supports Digestive Health – Kerson fruit is rich in fiber which promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation.
5) Improves Heart Health – The antioxidants found in kerson fruit can reduce the risk of heart disease by preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol.
6) Enhances Skin Health – Kerson fruit’s high vitamin C content helps to promote collagen production which maintains skin elasticity and prevents premature aging.
7) Fights Cancer Cells – Studies suggest that the phytochemicals present in kersen extract may possess anticancer properties against certain types of cancer cells.
8) Regulates Blood Pressure – Consuming this delicious tropical treat regularly aids in regulating your blood pressure naturally
9 ) Increases Bone Density – Its abundance of calcium contributes to bone density thus promoting strong bones
10 ) Aids Weight Loss – This superfood has low calories but high dietary fiber making it great for anyone trying to lose weight.
Incorporating this tasty yet nutritious superfruit into your daily diet can lead to better overall health thanks to its many proven benefits!
Possible Side Effects of Consuming Kerson Fruit
While kerson fruit is known for its numerous health benefits, it’s important to note that consuming this fruit may also have some side effects. It is recommended to consume this fruit in moderation as overconsumption can lead to various negative effects.
People who are allergic to fruits or have a history of allergies should avoid eating kerson fruit. Additionally, those with kidney problems or diabetes should consult their doctor before consuming the fruit due to its high sugar content.
Eating too much of the fruit can also cause an upset stomach and diarrhea. This is because kerson fruits contain sorbitol, a natural laxative that helps regulate digestive functions. While sorbitol has many health benefits, excessive consumption can result in undesirable gastrointestinal symptoms.
While there are no studies showing adverse reactions between medication and kerson fruits, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice if you’re taking any prescription drugs before consuming this sweet-tasting treat.
Conclusion
Kerson fruit or aratiles is a superfood that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. With its numerous health benefits and medicinal properties, it’s no surprise that this fruit is gaining popularity all over the world.
Whether you eat it fresh, make it into juice or tea, consume the leaves as herbal medicine, or use the bark for various purposes, kerson fruit can do wonders for your health. Just be aware of possible side effects and consult with your doctor if you have any concerns.
Note: This article also answers the following local questions:
- Aratilis benefits for skin
- Side effects of aratiles
- Health benefits of mansanitas leaves
- Aratilis benefits for diabetes
- Mansanitas leaves benefits for pregnant
- Aratiles leaves benefits
- Mansanitas health benefits
- Aratiles leaves tea
See Also:
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- Uraro – Health Benefits of Eating Arrowroot
- Kulitis – Health Benefits of Eating Amaranth