History
Starfruit (Averrhoa carambola) also called star fruit is a fruit native to Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia). Like other fruit trees in Martinique, it was imported to the island during the period of colonization. Step by step, the carambola will spread around the island. It can also be found in South America, Australia and Israel.
Varieties
There are two varieties of star fruit, one sweet and one bitter. Usually, it is the first one found in Martinique. The fruit is a berry with 5 fused carpels, the section of which forms a star and each containing two flat seeds.
The tree produces fruit 2-3 times per season.
Health benefits
Starfruit has therapeutic virtues on the digestive system, particularly in cases of constipation or diarrhea. It is also an anti-inflammatory which is beneficial in relieving rheumatism problems, its febrifuge quality considerably soothes by reducing feverish conditions.
Medically, it can be used in cases such as anti-inflammatory, depurative, anthelmintic, and antipyretic, against constipation, diarrhea, fever, diabetes, rheumatic pain and hives. Its juice can reduce the level of sugar in the blood!
Attention in some cases, the seeds are toxic!
It is not recommended for people suffering from kidney failure. Carambola is rich in oxalic. In patients with chronic kidney disease, the consumption of star fruit is associated with neurological symptoms that can range from hiccups and confusion to coma and death.
Uses
Starfruit can be consumed in jam, juice or some sauces. You can also find the cut star as decoration on cocktails (cf. opposite photo).
