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Carambola Tree, Barbados Pocket Guide

Carambola Tree

The Carambola tree is yet another popular tree that can be found growing throughout Barbados. It is a short-trunked evergreen tree with a much-branched, bushy canopy that is broad and rounded. The fruit of the Carambola tree is commonly referred to across Barbados as the five finger because of its five segments or starfruit based on its star-shaped cross section.

The juicy and somewhat mildly acidic fruit of the Carambola tree is best consumed when ripe, i.e. yellow with a light shade of green. They will also have brown ridges at the five edges and feel firm. Overripe fruit will be yellow with brown spots.

The Carambola tree prefers full exposure to sunlight with adequate water and drainage.

Health Benefits Associated with Carambola Fruit

Carambola is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C and low in sugar, sodium and acid. It is also a potent source of both primary and secondary polyphenolic antioxidants. Carambola has both antioxidant and antimicrobial activities: scavenging of NO by the fruit extract is dependent on concentration and stage of ripening. Extracts showed antimicrobial activity against E. coli, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus.

Health Risks Associated with Carambola Fruit

The Carambola fruit is quite beneficial but caution should be taken when it comes to individuals suffering from kidney failure, kidney stones or who are under kidney dialysis treatment. Carambola contains oxalic acid which can be harmful to individuals suffering from kidney failure, kidney stones or who are under kidney dialysis treatment. Consumption by those with kidney failure can produce hiccups, vomiting, nausea, and mental confusion. Fatal outcomes have been documented in some patients.

•	The Carambola fruit is recommended as a diet fruit because of its high fiber and low calorie content as it may lower cholesterol levels
•	The extraction of the juice from the leaves and roots (whether done separately or together) can help cure headaches, ringworm, and chickenpox
•	The Carambola fruit is known to cure hangovers and prickly heat. You can also use the pickled fruit for hangover just take one piece of the pickled fruit, steam in water and serve
•	The Carambola fruit has also been used to treat sore eyes
•	The Carambola fruit is given to nursing mothers as it is commonly believed to stimulate the flow of milk
•	For nausea and indigestion eat half piece of the fruit and repeat after 3 hours
•	Its high vitamin C content can help ward off winter colds and flu
•	The Carambola fruit is also full of antioxidants and flavonoids
•	The Carambola fruit prevents cells from damages
•	The Carambola fruit improves the health of the gums and teeth
•	The Carambola fruit reduces aging
•	The Carambola fruit lowers the risk of some cancers
•	The Carambola fruit protects from frequent infections
•	The Carambola fruit improves the immune system and protecrs from free radicals

In Barbados, the Carambola fruit is eaten raw or made into a delicious juice. About one cup which is equivalent to 132grams of raw Carambola juice contains Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Thiamin, Vitamin B2, Riboflavin, Vitamin B3, Niacin, Vitamin B5, Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin B6, Pyridoxine, Vitamin B9, Folate, Vitamin C (large amount), Vitamin E, Protein, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Selenium, Copper, Zinc, Potassium, Phosphorus, Omega 3 Fatty Acids, Omega 6 Fatty Acids, Natural Fats, Natural Sugars, Dietary Fiber, Carbohydrates and Calories.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this page should not be interpreted as personal medical advice or instruction. No action should be taken based solely on the contents of this site.

Readers should consult the appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to their health and well being.

The information and opinions provided here are believed to be accurate and sound, based on the best information available to the writers. However, readers who fail to consult the appropriate health authorities automatically assume risk of any injuries. Barbados Pocket Guide is not in any way responsible for errors or omissions.

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