Carambola (Averrhoa carambola L.) Golden Star –  An  attractive fruit of family Oxalidaceae

The tropical fruit carambola is more popularly known as star fruit due to its shape and has a health benefits,it is known to combat diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels.  It is even known to treat stomach ulcers,skin boils and coughs in children.  It is rich in folic acid and also provides one with vitamin B9 that helps fight against heat attacks and stroke

Carambola is one of the lowest calorie fruits as 100 grams of it consists of only 31kcals making it the best fruit option for those trying to lose weight.  The same amount of carambola also has about 2.5 grams of fiber and 9.5 grams of carbohydrates.  Though this fruit is free from trans fats ans satured fats it contains a very minimal amount of fat.

Carambola trees –  Excellent tree for home landscaping – Tree facts

The carambola tree is small to medium in height  and spreading,and single or multi-trunked. Carambola trees are  evergreen, although when grown in cooler locations, they lose some or all of their leaves during the late winter and early spring. Trees grow rapidly in locations protected from  strong winds. The mid-canopy area  is the major fruit-producing area of mature trees

The fruit is a fleshy four to five celled berry with a waxy surface. Fruit are 2 to 6 inches in length, star-shaped in cross section. The fruit skin is thin, light to dark yellow, and smooth, with a waxy cuticle

Carambola is very low in calories -some healthy fruit facts – medicinal values

Star fruit is packed with B complex vitamins like riboflavin,pyridoxine and folates which act as a co factor for enzymes in the metabolism and various synthetic functions inside the body.

This fruit has a good amount of dietary fibre which helps prevent the absorption of dietary LDL in the gut and also helps the mucous membrane of the colon from getting exposed to toxic substances by binding cancer causing agents.

Carambola A star among fruits

Carambola is very low in calories

Polyphonic flavonoids are a type of  phytonutrient present in star fruit which helps protect the body from harmful effects of oxygen derived free radicals by warding them off.

Carambola is also a rich source of Vitamin C which is a powerful antioxidant.

It also provides 135 IU of vitamin A which improves functioning of the eyes.

Star fruit also has diuretic properties which aid in increasing urine output

The fruit is also very helpful in suppressing cough.

Carambola carries small amounts of minerals and electrolytes like Zinc,iron,potassium and phosphorus.  Potassium is an important component for the cells and body fluids and helps control heart rate and blood pressure

Star fruits – culinary uses – commercial uses

• star fruits (Carambolas) are primarily sold as a fresh fruit.
• processing into wine,pickles, sauces,and jellies is done on a limited scale.
• used in salads,juice,fruit cocktails,jams as well as an alcoholic carambola wine

Shelf Life: One week depending on temperature and humidity. Once ripe, it should be eaten within two to three days