SAPOTA / CIKU

 

It is a tropical evergreen tree that is native to Southern Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. Now it is grown in large quantities in countries like India, Pakistan, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. It is medium-large tree that produces brown fruits which are popularly called sapota in India. It is available all over India very cheaply, the flesh is brown colour and the seeds are glossy black in colour. The fruits are exceptionally sweet when ripe, we usually remove the seeds and scoop out the flesh using a spoon. The botanical name of sapota is Manilkara zapota. 

Health Benefits Of Sapota.

Anti-cancer Properties.

Both the fruit and the leaf extract have anticancer properties. The leaf extract is effective against colorectal cancer, hepato-cellular carcinoma and cervical cancer. This is due to the high amounts of antioxidants present in it. Regular consumption of sapota also helps improve immunity and promotes gut health, compromised gut health is also said to be one of the major reasons for developing cancer.

Anti-HIV Properties.

Sapota contains compounds called prenylated coumarins that have been proven to have anti-HIV properties. They also have powerful anti-inflammatory properties too. These studies suggest that consuming sapota on a regular basis helps protect a person against HIV virus and inflammation.

Anti-Bacterial, Anti-Fungal & Anti-Parasite.

Sapota seed extract has powerful anti-bacterial properties and is effective against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Like the seed extract, the water extract of sapota leaves also has powerful antibacterial properties against 10-gram positive bacteria, 12-gram negative bacteria and a fungal strain called Candida tropicalis. The water extract is also effective in warding off housefly.

Reduces High Cholesterol & Blood Sugar Levels.

Both the leaf extract and fruit are good for people suffering from high blood cholesterol and diabetes. Studies done on rats indicate that consuming sapota lowers insulin, total cholesterol and triglycerides. The percentage of weight gain also declined in animals who were given sapota fruit pulp so it is very helpful in the prevention of diabetes, obesity and high cholesterol.

Anti-Aging Properties.

Sapota is rich in antioxidants due to the high amounts of phenolic and flavonoid content. Sapota fruit also has anti-collagenase and anti-elastase properties thus helping us have youthful skin. I would highly suggest both consuming it regularly and also applying it externally in the form of face packs. It also helps fight free radicals which are the major cause of premature aging of our skin and hair.

Nutrient Powerhouse.

Since it is rich in calcium, iron and phosphorus, it is good for our bones. It is a fibre-rich fruit so it is a natural laxative and it also has a soothing effect on our stomach. Since the fruit is extremely sweet, it satisfies sugar cravings and is a good alternative for people who crave sweets. 

Sapota Side Effects.

Sapota if consumed in moderation will not cause any side effects. It can be consumed both by pregnant and lactating mothers too. Diabetic patients should consume sapota only in moderation and they should monitor their blood sugar levels closely after consuming sapota.

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