Nephelium Mutabile: 6 Health Benefits of Pulasan and Side Effects

August 1, 2023 by Lauro Braganza

Welcome to our blog post on the incredible Pulasan fruit! Have you ever heard of this exotic and delicious tropical fruit? If not, get ready to be amazed by its unique flavor and numerous health benefits. Packed with nutrients and bursting with sweetness, Pulasan is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating health benefits of Pulasan, exploring its origins, nutritional profile, medicinal uses, as well as potential side effects. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply looking for ways to boost your overall well-being, keep reading to discover why Pulasan should be on your radar!

What is Pulasan

Pulasan, scientifically known as Nephelium mutabile, is a tropical fruit that belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It shares its family with other famous fruits like rambutan and lychee. Native to Malaysia, Philippines, and Indonesia, Pulasan can also be found in other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand and Brunei.

Pulasan is also called “Bulala” in the Philippines and if often referred to as “blume” in English.

benefits of pulasan — Pulasan or Bulala (Nephelium mutabile)

The fruit grows on a tall evergreen tree or shrub that can reach heights of up to 20 meters. Its appearance is quite similar to rambutan but with some noticeable differences. While both fruits have spiky red outer shells, Pulasan has larger spikes compared to rambutan. When fully ripe, the thick skin of Pulasan turns from bright green to a vibrant shade of red.

Rich in history and culture, Pulasan holds great significance in traditional Malay folklore where it is often associated with love and romance. The word “Pulasan” itself comes from the Malay term meaning “to pick,” reflecting the act of carefully selecting this delectable fruit from its tree.

In terms of habitat preference, Pulasan thrives best in tropical climates characterized by high rainfall and humidity levels. These conditions are essential for ensuring optimal growth and development of the trees, resulting in abundant harvests during peak seasons.

Pulasan Nutrition Per 100g

Here is the approximate nutritional information for pulasan per 100 grams of edible portion:

Calories: 82 kcal
Carbohydrates: 19.2 grams
- Sugars: 14.4 grams
Dietary Fiber: 0.9 grams
Fat: 0.4 grams
Protein: 0.9 grams
Vitamin C: 6.8 mg (11% of the daily recommended intake)
Vitamin A: 0.24 mg
Calcium: 22 mg
Potassium: 42 mg

Please note that these values can vary slightly depending on the fruit’s ripeness and other factors. Pulasan is relatively low in calories and fat while being a good source of natural sugars, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients.

As always, it’s important to consume a diverse range of fruits and vegetables to ensure a balanced intake of various nutrients. If you have specific dietary concerns or requirements, it’s best to consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized advice.

6 Health Benefits of Pulasan and Medicinal Uses

While pulasan is not as widely known or extensively researched as some other fruits, it is generally believed to offer several potential health benefits due to its nutrient content. Here are some of the potential health benefits of pulasan:

Rich in Nutrients: Pulasan is a good source of essential nutrients such as vitamins (e.g., vitamin C, vitamin A), minerals (e.g., calcium, potassium), and dietary fiber. These nutrients play important roles in supporting overall health and well-being.
Antioxidant Properties: Like other tropical fruits, pulasan contains antioxidants, including flavonoids and polyphenols. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support healthy aging.
Immune System Support: The vitamin C content in pulasan can help strengthen the immune system, promoting better resistance against infections and illnesses.
Digestive Health: The dietary fiber found in pulasan may aid in digestion and promote a healthy gastrointestinal system by supporting regular bowel movements.
Hydration: Pulasan, like many other fruits, contains water, which contributes to hydration and helps maintain overall body fluid balance.
Energy Boost: The natural sugars found in pulasan can provide a quick energy boost, making it a good option for a natural and healthy snack.

It’s important to note that scientific research specifically focused on pulasan’s health benefits is limited compared to more commonly studied fruits. Therefore, while these potential benefits are based on the fruit’s nutritional composition and the general properties of similar fruits, more research is needed to validate these claims.

As with any food or supplement, moderation is key. Including a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet can provide a wide range of nutrients and health benefits. If you have specific health concerns or dietary considerations, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

Possible Side Effects and Disadvantages of Pulasan

1. Allergic Reactions: While pulasan is generally safe to consume, some individuals may have allergic reactions to the fruit. Symptoms can include itching, hives, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms after eating pulasan, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

2. Digestive Issues: Consuming too much pulasan can lead to digestive problems such as stomach cramps, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. This is because the fruit contains a high amount of fiber which can be difficult for some people to digest in large quantities.

3. High Sugar Content: Pulasan is naturally sweet due to its high sugar content. While this makes it a delicious treat, consuming excessive amounts of sugary fruits can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of developing conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.

4. Interference with Medications: Some compounds found in pulasan may interact with certain medications like blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs. It’s always advisable to consult your healthcare provider if you are taking any medications before adding new foods into your diet.

5. Contamination Risks: As with any fresh produce, there is a small risk of contamination from bacteria or pesticides if not handled properly during cultivation or storage processes.

Remember that these side effects and disadvantages are rare occurrences and most people can enjoy pulasan without experiencing any negative effects on their health! However, it’s always wise to consume moderation and listen to your body’s response when trying new foods like pulasan.

How to Eat Pulasan

Eating pulasan is a delightful experience, and it’s relatively easy to enjoy this tropical fruit. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to eat pulasan:

Choose Ripe Pulasan: Look for pulasan fruits that are fully ripe. Ripe pulasan has a reddish-brown skin and feels slightly soft to the touch. Avoid fruits with green or unripe skin, as they may be difficult to peel and the flesh may not be as sweet.
Wash the Fruit: Before eating, rinse the pulasan fruit under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Remove the Skin: Pulasan has a thick and leathery skin, similar to rambutan. To open the fruit, use your fingers or a small knife to make a shallow cut around the circumference of the fruit. Gently twist the fruit open, and the skin should come off easily, revealing the white, juicy flesh inside.
Enjoy the Flesh: The white pulasan flesh is the edible part of the fruit. The taste is similar to rambutan, with a sweet and juicy flavor. You can simply pop the flesh into your mouth and eat it fresh. Be cautious of the seed, which is inedible, and avoid biting into it.
Spit out the Seed: After eating the flesh, spit out the seed. Make sure not to swallow or bite into the seed, as it is not edible.
Use in Recipes: Pulasan can also be used in various recipes, such as fruit salads, smoothies, desserts, or even in savory dishes like salads with a tropical twist. The sweet and juicy nature of pulasan makes it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.
Store Properly: If you have any leftover pulasan, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for a day or two at most. It’s best to enjoy the fruit as fresh as possible since it tends to lose its taste and texture over time.

Remember, like many tropical fruits, pulasan is seasonal, so it may not be available year-round in all regions. If you have the opportunity to try pulasan, savor its unique flavor and enjoy its healthful benefits!

Conclusion

Packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, Pulasan supports a healthy immune system while protecting against oxidative damage. It can promote heart health by regulating blood pressure levels and improving circulation.

Additionally, the phytochemicals found in Pulasan have shown promising anti-inflammatory properties that may alleviate symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Its high fiber content aids digestion and promotes regularity.

While enjoying the numerous health benefits of Pulasan is appealing, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions or digestive discomfort when consuming this fruit in excessive amounts.

As with any food or supplement, moderation is key. Consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating new foods into your diet if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns.

Note: This article also answer the following local questions:

Benepisyo ng Pulasan
Ano ang vitamins o bitamina ng Pulasan
Epekto sa katawan sa pagkain ng Pulasan
Side effects ng Pulasan
Masamang epekto ng pagkain ng Pulasan
Anong vitamins ang makukuha sa Pulasan
Ano ang naidudulot ng Pulasan sa ating katawan

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