The Health Benefits of Forest Starfruit

Are you familiar with wild plum fruit? This nutritious fruit offers numerous health benefits and is worth exploring. If you’re interested in learning more, read this informative article by Bach Hoa XANH.

1 What is Wild Plum Fruit?

Wild plum fruit

Wild plum fruit, scientifically known as Phyllanthus emblica, is a flowering plant belonging to the Phyllanthaceae family. It is also commonly referred to as Indian gooseberry, mountain ebony, or makkham.

The wild plum tree can grow up to 8-18m in height and bears spherical fruits that are light green and yellow. The fruits have smooth and hard skin, along with yellow-green flowers. Wild plums typically ripen in autumn and have a sour and slightly bitter taste.

2 Nutritional Value of Wild Plum Fruit

Nutritional value of wild plum fruit

Here are the nutritional components found in 100g of wild plum fruit:

• 44g calories
• 0.9g protein
• 0.6g fat
• 10.2g carbohydrates
• 4.3g fiber
• 100mg vitamin C: 111% DV
• 0.3mg vitamin B6: 15% DV
• 0.1mg vitamin E: 8% DV
• 0.5mg manganese: 7% DV
• 0.1mg copper: 4% DV

DV: Daily Value

3 Health Benefits of Wild Plum Fruit

• Reduces cholesterol levels: A study published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology in 2012 demonstrated that using wild plum fruit for treatment can lower triglyceride and “bad” cholesterol levels, thereby preventing plaque accumulation and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Reduces cholesterol levels

• Improves blood sugar levels: Thanks to its high fiber content, wild plum fruit helps slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.

Improves blood sugar levels

• Contains phytochemicals: Wild plum fruit is rich in phytochemicals such as furosin, corilagin, gallic acid, and quercetin. These compounds possess antioxidant properties that protect against oxidative stress caused by free radicals. As a result, they help prevent the development of chronic diseases and promote overall health.

Contains phytochemicals

• Anti-cancer properties: The antioxidant compounds present in wild plum fruit can also have an impact on cancer cells, reducing the risk of cancer development.

Anti-cancer properties

• Prevents constipation: The fiber in wild plum fruit not only aids in blood sugar regulation but also helps maintain proper water balance in the body, preventing constipation.

Prevents constipation

• Improves digestion: Wild plum fruit’s protective effects on the stomach contribute to maintaining normal digestive function and preventing conditions like gastric ulcers.

Improves digestion

• Improves liver health: An animal study conducted in 2013 revealed that the use of wild plum fruit for treating diabetic mice resulted in increased antioxidant levels in the liver, thereby enhancing its function and promoting liver health.

Improves liver health

4 Where to Buy Wild Plum Fruit and Price Information?

Where to buy wild plum fruit and how much does it cost?

You can purchase wild plum fruit at large supermarkets or order it from reputable online shopping websites. It is recommended to buy it between June and September when the wild plums are ripe and at their tastiest.

When making a purchase, choose fruits that are slightly yellowish-green and free of bruises. Gently press the fruit with your hand; if the skin feels firm, it indicates freshness and deliciousness. Additionally, you’ll notice a natural fragrance emanating from the plums.

The price of wild plum fruit is approximately 40,000-45,000 VND/kg.