Jackfruit
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How I Pick & Eat 40 Lbs. of Jackfruit
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The Jackfruit comes from a tree (also called the Jack Tree) that is native to Eastern Asia. It is an important multipurpose tree, famous for its fruit (which is actually a “multiple fruit”). The Jackfruit tree is a useful agroforestry tree, with roots that are wide-ranging and help to control erosion and floods, and good in intercroppings. The Jackfruit tree grows fast up to about 75 feet tall and can produce about 100-200 large giant in a year! The Jackfruits are basically oval in shape, but various, and consist of a meaty texture that has a mild flavor when immature. Because of this, it is often used as a meat substitute, and it is quickly gaining popularity in western markets in meat alternative products. Jackfruit is used in numerous dishes in the cuisines of Asian countries. The ripe fruit is sweeter and used for such sweeter dishes as custards and cakes.
Constituents
Uses
The seeds from the ripe Jackfruits are also edible and consumed either boiled, baked or roasted—also said to be aphrodisiac! The seeds have a taste similar to Brazil Nuts, or when roasted like Chestnuts, but with an aroma like chocolate (and are used as a chocolate substitute). The fruits have a strong “fruity” smell. The fruits are starchy, provide dietary fiber and are rich in vitamin B6. Compared to other tropical fruits, Jackfruits have more protein, calcium, iron and thiamine. Medicinally, several parts of the Jackfruit tree are used in traditional medicine extensively, and it is confirmed to be anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, wound healing and hypoglycemic. The pulp and seeds are used as cooling tonics—helpful in the hot tropics where the tree grows!
Studies
This giant tropical fruit could help reverse gum disease damage. A new biomaterial made from jackfruit latex, pomegranate peel, and simvastatin could transform the treatment of severe gum disease. Early tests suggest it not only combats infection and inflammation but may also help rebuild lost bone and tissue around teeth.