Bilimbi fruit or Kamias is native to the Philippines, and is considered as one of the most underestimated fruits. It is closely related to the star fruit or balimbing, but not like these 2 fruits, kamias has a sour flavor.
This fruit-bearing tree is a good source of vitamins B, C and phosphorus, antioxidants and iron. Even though bilimbi fruit is not popular like the other tropical fruits, it contains high nutritional value, and should give it a try.
Health Benefits of Kamias
1. Allergy Treatment
Allergy is a condition that is caused by the hypersensitivity of your body’s immune system to some particular things outside of your body. These particular things can be drugs, foods, air (causing allergic rhinitis and asthma), or metals (causing dermatitis), etc.
The symptoms may include breathing disturbance, red eyes, itching on the skin, runny nose or even more serious ones like Steven-Johnson syndrome. Drinking bilimbi fruit or kamias juice or using bilimbi leaves infusion regularly, can help reduce the allergies.
2. Cough Treatment
Bilimbi fruit extract can be added to cough syrup, due to its positive effects in reducing coughs and also runny nose. Its sour taste can make the cough syrup more palatable.
3. Bone Health
Your teeth and bones become weaker and less dense as you age. Calcium supplements might be a good option, but filling up on calcium-rich food is much better.
Kamias or bilimbi fruit is the most prominent and can support your entire skeletal structure. Phosphorus complements calcium by increasing the mineral’s effectivity by adding density and strength to teeth and bones.
4. Diabetes Treatment
Bilimbi fruit is recommended for people who are suffering from diabetes. You cab crush 6 grains of kamias and combine them with a glass of water.
Boil the mixture and make sure to strain the water. You should consume the mixture at least twice daily.
5. Hypertension Management
Hypertension is a condition that is linked with the rise of blood pressure in your arteries. An individual is said to have hypertension when his/her blood pressure is consistently above 140/90 mmHg.
Bilimbi fruit has been used traditionally in controlling hypertension. These are boiled using 3 cups of water until half of the water has evaporated. Then the mixture can be taken once it’s lukewarm. It is advised to drink this every morning.
6. Rheumatic Pain Treatment
In order to relieve rheumatic pain, you should crush a handful of kamias leaves and one grain. Mix them with water and apply on the affected areas 2-3 times on a daily basis.
7. Weight Loss
Finding low-calorie snacks to combine with your meals can be a bit of a challenge. Bilimbi fruit, on the other hand, has very few calories. You can add it to your dishes and drinks without hiking up the calorie count.
Its tart and delicious taste, can be use to flavor condiments and sauces. Also, foods with vitamin B have been reported to have a positive effect on the metabolic rate as well.
Read More:
1. 16 Health Benefits of Pomegranates
2. Sup Soursop: Knowing the Many Benefits of This Tropical Fruit
3. 10 Amazing Health Benefits of Mulberries