Sapota fruit is known as “sapeta” in Bengali, “cappotta” in Tamil, “chikku” in Marathi, “sapota” in Telugu, “chikoo” or “chiku” in Hindi. Sapota is tropical evergreen tea which bears this fruit. This is a delicious calorie – rich fruit which belongs to the category of fruits like jack fruit, banana and mango. This fruit has its origin in the rain forests of Central America, especially in Belize and Mexico, but also it is available in India.
Sapota fruit has round or oval – shaped berry measuring around 10 cm in diameter and weighing 150 grams. It has two to five big, black and shiny beans – like the seeds in the centre. The unripe sapota fruit has a hard surface and white pulp and its flesh has a brown color. Black sapota has a smooth and grainy texture and musky and sweet flavor. Sapota fruit is rich in calories and it has sweet flavor which is attributed the presence of simple sugars, like sucrose and fructose, which can replenish energy and revitalizes the body.
Health benefits of sapota fruit
Tooth cavities: Sapota fruit has high latex content which can be used as a crude filling for tooth cavities.
As a detoxifying agent: This fruit has a diuretic property and it can help to remove the waste materials from your body through frequent urination. It can prevent water retention or edemas by maintaining the water concentration within the body.
Aids in weight loss: This fruit can help in the weight loss and it prevents the obesity by regulating the secretion of gastric enzymes and at the same time it can regulate the metabolism.
Kidney stones: The crushed seeds of this fruit are acting as diuretics and they can help to expel bladder and kidney stones. This can provide protection against kidney diseases.
Cold and cough: Sapota fruit can help to keep the congestion and chronic coughs at bay by removing the phlegm and mucus from respiratory tract and nasal passages. Also, this can help in the alleviation of colds and coughs.
Mental health: Sapota fruit is a potent sedative and it can help to calm the nerves and alleviate stress. Also, this fruit is recommended for people who suffer from depression, anxiety and insomnia.
Anti – diarrheal: Sapota fruit has purgative properties which is a reason why it is regarded as anti – diarrheal fruit. If you suffer from diarrhea, then you can use a decoction made by boiling the sapota fruit in water. It can help to alleviate dysentery and piles.
Anti – viral and anti – bacterial properties: Sapota fruit has polyphenolic antioxidants which are a reason why it is possessing anti – bacterial, anti – parasitic and anti – viral properties. It has antioxidants which can prevent the bacteria from entering into the human body. Vitamin C can destroy the harmful free radicals whereas pantothenic acid, niacin, folate, iron and potassium facilitate the proper functioning of the digestive system.
Hemostatic properties: Sapota fruit has hemostatic properties and it can help to stop the blood loss. Also, this fruit is beneficial in reducing bleeding in case of injuries and piles. You can apply the ground seeds of this fruit as a paste to alleviate insect bites and stings.
Benefits during pregnancy: Sapota fruit is rich in carbohydrates and essential nutrients which are very beneficial for pregnant and lactating mothers. It can help to reduce the weakness and other symptoms of pregnancy, such as dizziness and nausea.
Relief from constipation: Sapota fruit is rich in dietary fiber. This fruit is excellent bulk laxative. The dietary fiber can give you a relief from the constipation. It supports the colon’s membrane and it makes it resistant to infections.
Healthy bones: Our bones need additional amounts of iron, phosphorus and calcium which can increase their endurance. This fruit is rich in these minerals and it can help to enhance and strengthen the bones.
Source of energy: This fruit is rich in glucose which will provide instant energy to their bodies. Athletes should eat this fruit because it will give them a lot of energy.
