Cannonball Fruit: Top 5 Recipes, Nutritional Value,

Cannonball Fruit: Top 5 Recipes, Nutritional Value,

and Health Benefits Nature has gifted us with an array of exotic fruits that not only surprise us with their appearance but also provide incredible nutritional and medicinal benefits.

The Cannonball Fruit, scientifically known as Crescentia cujete, is one such unusual fruit. It is also known as Calabash fruit, Tree gourd, or Miracle fruit in some places. It is called "cannonball" because it looks like an iron cannonball because it is big, round, and has hard shells.

Traditionally valued in Ayurveda, Caribbean folk medicine, and Latin American remedies, this fruit is slowly gaining attention worldwide for its rich nutrients and healing properties.

In this article, we’ll explore its nutritional profile, health benefits, and 5 easy recipes you can try at home.

How Much Vitamin C Is in Cannonball Fruit? Cannonball fruit pulp is soft, jelly-like, and slightly sour. It contains a mix of essential

nutrients:

Calories: Low (good for weight management)

Natural energy is provided by carbohydrates. Fiber in the diet: Helps with digestion and bowel health

Vitamin C: Boosts immunity, acts as a natural antioxidant

Vitamin B complex (B1, B2, and B6): Enhances brain health and energy metabolism. Calcium & Phosphorus: Strengthens bones and teeth

Iron: Helps in red blood cell formation

Potassium and magnesium: Helps maintain a healthy heart and muscles. Flavonoids and alkaloids are phytochemicals that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Although exact values vary depending on ripeness and soil conditions, the fruit pulp is nutrient-dense while remaining light on calories making it excellent for both health and wellness.

Top Health Benefits of Cannonball Fruit.

1. Enhances Immunity Cannonball fruit strengthens immunity, protects against common colds, flu, and infections, and neutralizes harmful free radicals due to its high vitamin C and antioxidant content.

2.Aids Digestion

The pulp contains natural dietary fiber and mild laxative effects, which relieve constipation, improve gut health, and support healthy digestion.

3.Supports Heart Health

The fruit's potassium and magnesium help to regulate blood pressure, alleviate heart strain, and lower the risk of cardiovascular problems.

4.Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Due to its natural anti-inflammatory compounds, cannonball fruit has been used in traditional medicine to alleviate arthritis, joint pain, and swelling.

5.Promotes Weight Management

It keeps you full for longer, is low in calories and contains a lot of fiber, reduces overeating, and helps you keep a healthy weight.

6.Enhances Respiratory Fitness In folk remedies, the pulp and juice are used to soothe coughs, bronchitis, and asthma by clearing mucus and calming inflammation in the respiratory tract.

7.Enhances Skin Health Vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural antimicrobial properties help in treating skin infections, delaying premature aging, and improving skin texture.

8.Traditional Healing Uses

The pulp is used to treat fevers, high blood pressure, wounds, and ulcers in Caribbean and Ayurvedic medicine.

Top 5 Recipes Using Cannonball Fruit.

The pulp of the fruit can be eaten raw, blended, or cooked into drinks and meals that nourish the body. Here are five delicious and healthy recipes:

1.Juice of Cannonball Fruit A refreshing immunity-boosting drink

Ingredients:

1 cup pulp from cannonballs 2 cups cold water or coconut water

1 tbsp honey or jaggery (optional)

lemon juice or black salt in a pinch

Method:

1.Scoop out fresh pulp and mash it into a smooth paste.

2.Blend with coconut water or water.

3.Honey can add sweetness, and black salt can add flavor.

4.Strain and serve chilled.

? Great for hydration, digestion, and immunity during hot weather.

2.Cannonball Fruit Herbal Tea

Perfect for cough, sore throat, and relaxation

Ingredients:

½ cup cannonball fruit pulp

2 cups boiling water

1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/4 cup

honey Method:

1.Add pulp and ginger to boiling water.

2.Simmer for 5–7 minutes until infused.

3.Strain into a cup and add lemon juice and honey.

4.Sip warm.

? A natural remedy for colds, flu, and respiratory discomfort.

3.Smoothie with Cannonball Fruits A nutritious breakfast blend

Ingredients:

12 cup fruit pulp from cannonballs 1 ripe banana

1 cup of milk (or almond milk if you want to go vegan) 1 teaspoon chia or flax seeds 1 tsp honey or dates

Method:

1.Blend all ingredients together until smooth.

2.Use ice cubes to serve it cold. ? Rich in energy, fiber, and essential vitamins great for starting your day.

4. Chutney with Cannonball Fruits A tangy, spicy side dish

Ingredients:

1 cup cannonball fruit pulp

2 green peppers 1 small onion (chopped)

1 tsp cumin seeds

A handful of fresh coriander leaves

Salt as desired Method:

1.Blend pulp, chilies, onion, cumin, and salt into a smooth paste.

2.Garnish with coriander leaves.

3.Serve with rice, roti, or as a dip.

A flavorful, cleansing condiment that also helps with digestion. ---

4.Pudding for Cannonball Fruit Dessert A sweet, healthy delight

Ingredients:

1 cup pulp from cannonballs ½ cup condensed milk (or coconut cream for vegan option)

2 tablespoons brown sugar or jaggery 1 tsp cardamom powder

Chopped nuts for garnish

Method:

1.Mix pulp, condensed milk, and jaggery in a pan.

2.Cook on low flame until it thickens.

3.Stir in the powdered cardamom.

4.Serve warm or chilled, garnished

with nuts.

? A unique, nutrient-packed dessert with natural flavors.