African star apple (Udara, Agbalumo), as some people will refer to it, is a nostalgic tale.
While having various other tribal names, Udara/Agbalumo is the name by which it is most often known in Nigeria.
Growing up, we had a large Umbrella Udala tree in my late grandma’s garden. When the time arrived, it literally became my lunch.
We looked forward to harvest season, and if the wait was going to be too lengthy, we would frequently bother our parents to get some.
I enjoyed it.
Africa star apple is also called White Star Apple.
The botanical name is Chrysophyllum albidum.
There are over 80 different fruit species in the Chrysophyllum genus of plants, all of which are grown only in tropical areas. Here in Nigeria, the African star apple, or Udara, is a very well-liked fruit. Its fleshy pulp is frequently consumed as a snack and is widespread in both urban and rural settings, especially in Southern Nigeria. It is not yet in its prime because it is a seasonal fruit that only produces between December and April during the dry season.
Therefore, allow me to share with you some excellent news on the wholesome Udara/Agbalumo goodness!
Health Benefits of Udara/Agbalumo (African Star Apple)
1. It is undoubtedly a healthy food because, like most fruits, it has few calories and little fat.
2. It is a great snack because of its high fibre content, which gives the food bulk, increasing satiety and facilitating digestion, making it a great choice for weight watchers.
3. It contains surprisingly good levels of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). It is obvious that sources of vitamin C are not limited to the citrus fruit family; in fact, guava has a lot more!
4. Rat studies on Udara/Agbalumo leaves conducted recently in Nigeria revealed two potential medical applications:
5. It could act as a natural source of antioxidants to help treat oxidative stress disorders by removing free radicals, and
6. Although it also had adverse effects on various organs, its leaf extract contains hypoglycemic (to treat Diabetes) and anti-platelet actions.
Basic Nutrition
A fresh star apple serving size of 1 cup has 67 calories. Star apples are a healthy snack option because they have few calories and no fat, but they might not have enough calories to satisfy hunger and increase energy levels as between-meal snacks are supposed to. According to The Diet Channel, 100 to 200 calories per snack are ideal; if you want to increase the number of calories into this range, try eating an oz. of cheese or a tsp. of peanut butter. A serving of star apples also contains 15 g of carbs, or 11.5 percent of the 130 g recommended by the Institute of Medicine for daily intake.
Nutrient Content per 100g edible
Udara/Agbalumo pulp Nutrient Quantity
Energy (Kcal) 91.09
Carbohydrate (g) 10.49
Protein (g) 6.99
Fat (g) 2.49
Moisture (g) 73
Vitamin C (mg) 25
