Wampee fruit (Clausena lansium) is a tropical evergreen fruit native to Southeast Asia, particularly China, Vietnam, and the Philippines. It belongs to the citrus family and is known for its sweet-tart flavour, resembling a mix of grapes and lemons. The fruit is commonly eaten fresh or used in beverages and desserts. Wampee boasts an impressive nutrient profile that confers umpteen health incentives. Right from triggering the immune system to optimising gut, skin and heart health.
Wampee Plant
Wampee trees grow to a height of 3-8m, and leaves are soft and dark green bearing white florals with four to five petals about 3-4 mm in diameter. The fruit is oval-shaped and contains about 3-5 seeds, which dominate about 40-50% of the fruit volume. The plant is grown in tropical or subtropical conditions in different soil but grows well in rich loam.
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The wampee fruit is grape-sized with a unique fragrance. It is eaten along with the skin and seeds, much like kumquat. It is also found scattered in India, Sri Lanka and Australia.
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Nutritional Profile of Wampee Fruit
Wampee fruit is loaded with an impressive profile of nutrients, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet plan. Here’s a nutritional content per 100g:
Calories 55k
Moisture 84%
Protein 0.9g
Fat 0.1g
Carb 14.1g
Fiber 0.8g
Ash 0.9g
Phosphorous 19mg
Potassium 281mg
Calcium 15mg
Thiamine 0.02mg
Riboflavin 0.11mg
Niacin 3.3mg
Vitamin C 148mg
*Source: https://www.fruitsinfo.com/wampee-fruit.php#Nutritional-Value
Potential Health Benefits of Wampee Fruit
Packed With Nutrients
Wampee is a storehouse of antioxidants like flavonoids and vitamin C. Potent antioxidant actions safeguard the cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and lower the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, nervous disorders and cancers.
Studies reveal that vitamin C is also beneficial in dilating the blood vessels and improving blood circulation, thereby preventing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis, stroke and congestive heart failure.
Boosts Immunity
The goodness of vitamin C in Wampee builds a robust immune system and combats infection-causing pathogens. Adding Wampee to your regular meal plan can combat seasonal illnesses like flu, cold and coughs.
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Improves Digestion
Dietary fiber in Wampee promotes the smooth digestion process, regularises bowel movements and prevents constipation. Try incorporating this fruit into your diet regimen to maintain gut microbiome balance.
Supports Heart Health
The potent antioxidant traits of wampee help diminish cholesterol levels and regulate blood pressure. Incorporating this fruit supports maintaining cardiac well-being.
Promotes Skin Health
Wampee contains vast reserves of vitamin C and polyphenols that help slow down signs of ageing, fade away fine lines and wrinkles and keep skin glowing. In addition, vitamin C promotes collagen production that maintains skin elasticity and tone
Manages Diabetes
Being low in glycaemic index wampee fruit serves as a valuable addition to a diabetic meal regimen. It is rich in vitamin B3, which is beneficial in regulating blood sugar spikes and maintaining HbA1C levels. In addition, it contains vitamin B2, which plays a vital role in energy formation and promotes carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism.
Supports Respiratory Health
Wampee has been used as an age-old remedy in traditional medicine to treat common colds, coughs, and sore throats, and alleviate asthma symptoms.
Weight Loss
Being low in calories and packed with nutrients, wampee serves as an ideal fruit to be included in your weight loss meal plan. It can keep you satiated for a longer time and reduce overall calorie intake.
Uses of Wampee Fruit
Enjoyed as a standalone snack due to its sweet-tart taste.
Wampee can be blended into refreshing drinks and smoothies.
Used in making marmalades and syrups owing to its tart flavour and unique taste.
It is used extensively in traditional medicine as a natural remedy to treat respiratory and digestive issues.
Ways to Add Wampee Fruit to Your Diet
Enjoy the fruit directly with or without its peel for a nutrition boost
Add sliced wampee to fruit or green salads for a tangy twist.
Blend with yogurt, honey, and other fruits to make it wholesome and energising.
Generously add this fruit as a topping for yogurt, ice creams, or cakes.
Make a refreshing and soothing tea, using dried wampee fruit for extra zest.
Possible Side Effects of Wampee Fruit
A few people may experience mild allergies such as itching, irritation or swelling.
Overconsumption may lead to bloating or acidity due to its acidic nature.
This fruit may interact with certain drugs, especially blood thinners. So, people on these medications should avoid this fruit.
The fruit’s acidity can erode tooth enamel if consumed frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wampee Fruit Safe For Pregnant Women?
Yes, in moderate amounts. As it packs ample reserves of essential nutrients it may be beneficial for pregnant women. However, consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Can Wampee Fruit Help In Weight Loss?
Yes, being low in calories and fiber makes it a good option for weight management.
Is It Good For The Skin?
Yes, it is a storehouse of antioxidants and vitamin C that support skin collagen production and reduce signs of ageing.
Can Diabetics Eat Wampee Fruit?
Being low in glycaemic index wampee can be included as part of a balanced diet, but in moderate amounts.
How To Store Wampee Fruit?
Keep it wrapped in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for an extended shelf-life.
What Is Wampee Good For?
Wampee fruit is highly valued for boosting immunity, aiding digestion, improving skin health, and supporting heart health.
What Does Wampee Fruit Taste Like?
This fruit has a sweet-tart flavour, often compared to a mix of grapes and lemons.
Wampee fruit in English?
Wampee is the English name for Clausena lansium, a fruit native to Southeast Asia.
Conclusion
Wampee is an evergreen tropical fruit. It is a powerhouse of nutrition that confers umpteen health benefits, including immune support, digestion aid, and optimise skin health. It can be enjoyed fresh, in beverages, or as part of various dishes. However, consuming it in moderation is advised to avoid potential side effects.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content)
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 the knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
The primary neurotoxic factor, Lansamide I, from Clausena lansium fruits and metabolic dysfunction invoked
Author links open overlay panel
Juan Chen , Xiaoyue Zhang ,Yuru Zhang ,Hong Zhang , Qiang Zhang b
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0278691523004891
Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities of Wampee (Clausena lansium (Lour.) Skeels) Peel
K Nagendra Prasad 1, Jing Hao 1, Chun Yi 1, Dandan Zhang 1, Shengxiang Qiu 1, Yueming Jiang 1, Mingwei Zhang
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2719755/
https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/13/19/3092