African Star Apple

African star apple also known as Agbalumo (Yoruba), Udara (Igbo) in Nigeria, is associated with the dry season and has been enjoyed over the years by Nigerians as a fruit. But more studies are supporting its folklore use for treating diseases such

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as diabetes, heart diseases and drug resistant bacteria.

the fruits are sub-spherical in shape, about 3cm in diameter, usually 5 celled and contain an edible, sweet fruit-pulp. this fruits are good remedies for sore throat, tooth ache, constipation, and much more.

Botanically called Chrysophyllum albidum,  white star apple belongs to the Sapotaceae family. It is a popular tropical fruit tree and widely distributed throughout the southern part of Nigeria and in the low land rain forest zones and frequently found in villages and cities too.

The fleshy pulp of the fruits is eaten especially as snack and its fruit has been found to have higher contents of ascorbic acid than oranges and guava. It is also reported as an excellent source of vitamins, irons, flavours to diets. The seeds are also used for local games or discarded. The fruit pulp is rich in Vitamin C and iron and an excellent source of raw material for industries. Tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, proteins, carbohydrates and resins are the phytochemicals that have been reported in Chrysophyllum albidum.

Chrysophyllum albidum fruit is common in both urban and rural centres especially during the months of December in April. The fruits are not usually harvested from the trees, but left to drop naturally to the ground where they are picked.