Surinam cherry, also known as Eugenia uniflora, is a tropical fruit with a unique appearance and taste. Indigenous to South America and the Caribbean, it has become popular worldwide for its flavour, and culinary uses. This vibrant red fruit not only enhances the taste buds but also offers a plethora of health-benefiting and medicinal traits.
Read this article to get an overview of Surinam cherry health benefits, its nutrition uses, and potential side effects.
What Is Surinam Cherry?
Surinam cherry is a small, round, ribbed fruit that resembles a tiny pumpkin. It comes in vibrant shades of red, orange, and sometimes dark purple when ripe. The fruit is grown on a shrub or small tree and is also known by names such as Pitanga, Brazilian cherry, and Cayenne cherry.
Indian Name for Surinam Cherry
In India, Surinam cherry is referred to as “Pitanga” or simply known by its botanical name. However, it’s not a traditional Indian fruit and is more commonly recognized by its international name.
Nutritional Content
Surinam cherry is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a highly nutritious fruit.
Surinam cherry is a remarkable source of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that supports immune function, collagen synthesis, and skin health. Vitamin C also helps protect cells from oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
This vibrant fruit contains beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining good vision, skin health, and a strong immune system. Beta-carotene also has antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation.
Surinam cherries provide B vitamins, including B6, niacin, and folate, which play crucial roles in energy metabolism, brain function, and the production of red blood cells.
The richness of dietary fiber in Surinam cherry aids in digestion, helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, and promotes satiety, making it beneficial for weight management.
Surinam cherries are a storehouse of potassium, which is vital for heart health, regulating blood pressure, and supporting muscle function. Calcium supports bone health, while iron plays a key role in oxygen transport and energy production.
Surinam cherry’s vibrant red-to-purple color is due to anthocyanins, a class of antioxidants known to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Flavonoids, another group of antioxidants, protect against cell damage and support cardiovascular health.
Also Read: Tart Cherry: Uses And Health Benefits Of Juice And Supplements From This Superfruit
Incredible Health Benefits of Surinam Cherry
Boosts Immunity
The high vitamin C content in Surinam cherry strengthens the immune system, assisting in the production of white blood cells and antibodies that defend themselves against infections and illnesses. This fruit offers about 52% of your daily recommended value of vitamin C. Adding this fruit is especially beneficial in keeping illnesses at bay during flu seasons and promoting faster recovery.
Digestive Health
The abundance of dietary fiber in Surinam cherry aids in promoting healthy digestion prevents constipation and fosters a balanced gut microbiome. Fiber is also valuable for managing cholesterol levels and blood sugar.
Enhances Skin Health
The combination of antioxidants, vitamin C, and vitamin A in Surinam cherry contributes to skin health by protecting against UV damage and reducing signs of aging. Vitamin C also supports collagen production, which is essential for skin elasticity and promoting radiant complexion
Promotes Eye Health
Surinam cherry’s beta-carotene content is essential for maintaining eye health and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Beta-carotene protects against oxidative damage in eye tissues, supporting vision and reducing night blindness.
Also Read: Cornelian Cherries: Benefits, Nutrition And Easy Smoothie Recipe Of This Rare Red Fruit
Reduces Inflammation
The antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, in Surinam cherry, have powerful anti-inflammatory effects, which can reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis or heart disease.
Controls Blood Pressure
The potassium content in Surinam cherry helps balance sodium levels in the body, which is essential for regulating blood pressure. Adding foods abundant in potassium supports in reduction of the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Bone Health
The calcium, vitamin K, and magnesium found in Surinam cherry play a role in maintaining bone density and strength. Incorporating Surinam cherry into a regular diet regimen can prevent conditions like osteoporosis and reduce the risk of fractures.
Antimicrobial Properties
Studies on Surinam cherry extracts have shown promising antimicrobial effects, particularly against bacteria and fungi. This makes the fruit or its leaves a natural option in traditional medicine for treating a host of health anomalies.
Cancer Protection
A few studies suggest that the antioxidants in Surinam cherry, particularly anthocyanins, and flavonoids, may help reduce cancer risk by neutralizing free radicals and protecting DNA from damage. While more research is needed, this is a promising benefit.
Weight Management
The high fiber content in Surinam cherries helps promote a feeling of fullness, which can prevent overeating and reduce unwanted hunger pangs. Fiber also supports stable blood sugar levels, making Surinam cherries a suitable snack for those looking to manage their weight.
Surinam Cherry Leaves Uses
Surinam cherry leaves have been used widely in traditional medicine, especially in South American cultures. The leaves are known to contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. They are sometimes used to brew herbal teas that may help relieve digestive issues and reduce inflammation. However, if you plan to use the leaves, consult a healthcare provider to ensure they are safe for consumption.
Surinam Cherry Seeds
Surinam cherry seeds are generally not consumed due to their bitter taste and the presence of trace cyanogenic compounds. The seeds are often discarded after the flesh of the fruit is eaten or used in recipes.
Ways To Add Surinam Cherry
Blend fresh, ripe cherries with water, a bit of honey, and ice for a refreshing and nutritious smoothie.
Cook down the cherries with sugar and a splash of lemon juice to create a delicious jam for spreading on toast or desserts.
Add diced Surinam cherries to fruit salads, salsas, or chutneys for a unique flavour twist and taste
Surinam cherries are used to make sorbets or fruit compotes, pairing well with vanilla and tropical flavors.
Recipe
Surinam Cherry Jam
Ingredients:
2 cups Surinam cherries (deseeded)
3/4 cups sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice
Method
Take a pan add the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice, and cook on medium, stirring continuously.
Lower the flame and cook continuously stirring intermittently. Continue this until you get a jam-like consistency (usually takes about 30 minutes).
Allow the jam to cool and store it in an airtight container.
Enjoy jam with bread and cheese.
Nutrition
Packed with the goodness of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants Surinam cherries are valuable in augmenting the immune system, gut, and skin health.
Can I Eat Surinam Cherry?
Yes, Surinam cherry is edible and enjoyed fresh or used in recipes for its distinct sweet and tangy flavour. However, the seeds inside are generally not consumed, as they can have a slightly bitter taste.
What Does a Surinam Cherry Taste Like?
Surinam cherry has a unique flavor profile that combines sweetness with a tangy, sometimes slightly bitter aftertaste. Its flavor is often compared to a mix of tropical fruits, with hints of mango and apricot. Riper, darker-colored cherries are generally sweeter, while the lighter-colored ones can be tarter.
Is Surinam Cherry Poisonous?
Surinam cherries are safe to eat when ripe, but unripe cherries may have a bitter taste due to a compound called oxalic acid. While the fruit itself is non-toxic, the seeds contain small amounts of cyanogenic compounds, which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities. To avoid any risk, it’s best to discard the seeds.
What is Surinam Cherry Good For?
Surinam cherry is good for overall wellness, thanks to its antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. It is enjoyed as a healthy fruit snack, juice, salad, and smoothie. Surinam cherry leaves are also valued for their medicinal qualities.
Conclusion
Surinam cherry is a flavourful and wholesome tropical fruit that can add variety to your diet. Whether you enjoy it fresh, in recipes, or it’s leaves as a natural cure, this versatile fruit confers a host of benefits. Remember to consume the fruit when it’s fully ripe for the best flavour and avoid eating the seeds to stay safe.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile:
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
Phytochemical constituents and anthelmintic potential of Surinam cherry (Eugenia uniflora L.) at different fruit developmental stages
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/359519003_
Pitanga (Eugenia uniflora L.) as a source of bioactive compounds for health benefits: A review
Eduarda Monteiro Fidelis, Anne Suély Pinto Savall, Flávia de Oliveira Pereira , Caroline Brandão Quines, Daiana Silva Ávila, Simone Pinton
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1878535222000077
