Introduction to Carissa – A Superb Treat to Your Taste Buds
Carissa is a fibre-rich, juicy and flavourful fruit belonging to the Apocynaceae family which is native to South Africa. It is also known by different names such as Amatungulu, Mother of Thousands and Doombaal. Carissa is a small evergreen shrub that grows up to 5 meters in height and has ovate or oboviate leaves. The bark of the tree is rough and grey-brown in colour and has white latex exudates. The fragrant flowers, which are creamy white or pink in colour appear during summers, which is followed by the formation of the fruit.
Nutritional Value of Carissa
Carissa is an excellent source of dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, calcium and magnesium. It contains a high amount of antioxidants which help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. The antioxidants present in this fruit also helps in reducing inflammation and might even help in certain types of cancers. It is low in calories and free from fats and cholesterol, making it a healthy snack item.
Uses and Benefits of Carissa
Carissa has therapeutic and medicinal properties which make it beneficial for a wide range of health benefits. It is known to boost the immune system and has antiviral, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. It is beneficial in treating coughs and colds. Since it is rich in vitamins and minerals, it helps to promote good skin health and strengthen bones and teeth. Consumption of Carissa helps to improve digestion and absorb nutritional content from the food.
The pulp of Carissa can be dried and powdered, which can be used as a natural scrub to gently exfoliate the skin. The extracts obtained from the fruit are known to be beneficial in treating acne and other skin infections. The juice of the fruit is known to be beneficial in improving eyesight and also helps to reduce dark circles and puffiness under the eyes. Carissa can also be incorporated into your diet to give a flavourful twist to different culinary dishes.
Storing Carissa
Carissa is a highly perishable fruit and it is recommended that should not be stored for a long duration of time. It should be stored in a cool and dry place and away from direct sunlight. Once the fruits have been cut, it is best to store them in the refrigerator for a maximum of 3-4 days. The fruit should also be consumed as soon as possible as it tends to lose its nutritive value with time.
Conclusion
Carissa is a highly nutritious and flavorful fruit that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is highly beneficial for health due to its high content of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It is known to promote good skin health, boost immunity, reduce inflammation and even prevent certain types of cancers. It is best to consume this mouth-watering fruit fresh as soon as possible, however, it can also be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Therefore, incorporating Carissa in your diet proves to be beneficial in more ways than one!