Chiku, also known as Sapodilla, Sapote, Naseberry, Nispero or Chicle is a tropical fruit native to Central and South America. It was introduced to the Philippines during Spanish colonization. It is grown in large quantities in Mexico and in tropical Asia including India, Pakistan, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Bangladesh.
Sapodilla can grow to more than 30 m (98 ft) tall with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 m (5 ft). The average height of cultivated specimens, however, is usually between 9 and 15 m (30 and 49 ft) with a trunk diameter not exceeding 50 cm (20 in).[5] It is wind-resistant and the bark is rich in a white, gummy latex called chicle. The ornamental leaves are medium green and glossy. They are alternate, elliptic to ovate, 7–15 cm (3–6 in) long, with an entire margin. The white flowers are inconspicuous and bell-like, with a six-lobed corolla. An unripe fruit has a firm outer skin and when picked, releases white chicle from its stem. A fully ripened fruit has saggy skin and does not release chicle when picked.
The fruit is a large berry, 4–8 cm (2–3 in) in diameter.[6][7] Inside, its flesh ranges from a pale yellow to an earthy brown color with a grainy texture akin to that of a well-ripened pear. Each fruit contains one to six seeds.[7] The seeds are hard, glossy, and black, resembling beans, with a hook at one end that can catch in the throat if swallowed.
The fruit has an exceptionally sweet, juicy, malty flavor. The unripe fruit is hard to the touch and contains high amounts of saponin, which has astringent properties similar to tannin, drying out the mouth.
The trees can survive only in warm, typically tropical environments, dying easily if the temperature drops below freezing. From germination, the sapodilla tree will usually take anywhere from five to eight years to bear fruit. The sapodilla trees yield fruit twice a year, though flowering may continue year round.[8]
Here are some potential health benefits of chiku:
Good source of vitamins and minerals: Chiku is a good source of vitamins C and E, as well as minerals such as potassium and iron. These nutrients are important for maintaining overall health and wellness.
Helps lower blood pressure: Chiku is high in potassium, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
May improve digestion: Chiku is rich in fiber, which can help improve digestion and prevent constipation.
May boost immunity: Chiku is a good source of vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and protect against infections and diseases.
May support weight loss: Chiku is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied and may aid in weight loss.
May improve skin health: The antioxidants in chiku may help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, keeping it healthy and youthful.
Keep in mind that the benefits of chiku may vary depending on how much you consume and your overall diet and lifestyle. As with any food, it's important to consume chiku in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
0 Comments