Averrhoa carambola L.:
Averrhoa carambola, commonly known as Starfruit or Carambola, is a tropical fruiting plant belonging to the family.
• Scientific Name: Averrhoa carambola L.
• Family: Oxalidaceae
According to Bentham and Hooker, Averrhoa carambola belongs to the Oxalidaceae family, which is also known as the wood-sorrel family. This family includes various plants, many of which have sour or tangy-tasting parts.
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Synonyms:Oxalidaceae
• Oxalis carambola
• Averrhoa bilimbi var. carambola
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Common Names: Starfruit , Bilimbi
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Malayalam Name: Chathurapuli, Anapulinchi, ചതുരപ്പുളി, ആനപ്പുളിഞ്ചി നക്ഷത്രപഴം (Nakshathrapazham) ________________________________________
Tamil Name:நட்சத்திரப் பழம் (Nakshathirappazham), Pulichi kaai (புளிச்சிக் காய்)
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Uses of Averrhoa carambola:
1. Culinary Uses:
o Starfruit is consumed both in its raw form and when cooked. The fruit is eaten fresh, and its tart flavor makes it a popular ingredient in salads, juices, and smoothies.
2. Medicinal Uses:
o In traditional medicine, parts of Averrhoa carambola are used for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
o The leaves and fruit are used in folk remedies to treat fevers, digestive issues, coughs, and high blood pressure.
o Starfruit is rich in vitamin C, which is beneficial for boosting immunity and promoting skin health.
o The plant has also been used to treat diabetes in some regions by regulating blood sugar levels.
3. Caution for Kidney Health:
o Starfruit is not recommended for people with kidney disease or impaired kidney function, as it contains oxalates and toxic compounds that can cause neurological symptoms in individuals with kidney problems. It may lead to nausea, vomiting, and confusion if consumed by those with renal insufficiency.
4. Nutritional Value:
o Averrhoa carambola is low in calories but high in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. The fruit also contains small amounts of vitamins A, B-complex vitamins, and minerals like potassium and magnesium.
o It’s a low-calorie fruit and is commonly recommended for people on weight-loss diets.
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