The Secret to Health and beauty found in one fruit: Durian Belanda

Continuing our series of delicious and healthy unique fresh produce that can found in Borneo’s rainforests, we introduce another unique fruit in this issue. The soursop is a fruit of the Annona muricata broadleaf, evergreen tree. It is known by several names, graviola the most ubiquitous. In Sarawak soursop is called “Durian Belanda”, whilst in Sabah, it referred to as lampun.

Durian belanda mainly found in South America and is cultivated in South-East Asia. The tree that the fruit grows from can reach up to 30 metres tall. Furthermore, the dark green fruit is prickly and grows 10cm-30cm wide, 15cm tall, and weighs up to 1.5kg. The leaves are oblong and grow to 8cm-16cm length and 3cm-7cm wide. In fact, the black seeds found inside the durian belanda are indigestible and contain neurotoxins harmful to humans. Meanwhile, the white flesh is juicy and fibrous with a distinctive sharp sweet and sour taste, described by some as eating pineapple and banana together.

So what makes this fruit so versatile?  Let’s have a deeper look!

Treats infections and common ailments

Durian belanda (soursop) considered an all-around useful panacea, as it can help with recovery from general ailments. Soursop strengthens the immune system to help you recover quicker through antioxidants. Simply eating the fruit out of hand or drinking soursop tea can get you fighting fit again in no time!

Reduce Eye Disease

It contains antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress. Which directly contributes towards cataracts. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in the world, which the elderly are particularly vulnerable to contract. This Durian belanda (soursop) is great to keep those eyes focused and your vision sharp!

Helps Manage Diabetes

This fruit is also useful in managing diabetes. Previous research has shown it can lower glucose levels! A cup of Durian belanda (soursop) tea a day keeps the blood glucose levels at bay!

Treat Rheumatism

Durian belanda (soursop) is often used in Africa to treat rheumatism and joint pain. This is due to the anti-inflammatory properties of the fruit. Just grind the fruit into a paste, apply to the affected areas, et voila! Pain-relief!

Improves gastrointestinal health

The fruit is very rich in vitamin C and for many years considered as a natural remedy for scurvy and dysentery. Vitamin C helps to remove excess toxins and salt. It’s also found to soothe irritation in the colon. Great as an all-around detox tool!

Lower Stress Levels

Stressful situations lead to an increase of cortisol and adrenaline and if not managed effectively, leaves us feeling anxious and worried. Which can lead to insomnia, high blood pressure, and other mental health problems. Durian belanda (soursop) tea contains antidepressant properties which negate high cortisol levels – the perfect wind-down brew to help you not worry and be happy!

Make Skin and Hair Beautiful

Let’s not forget soursop’s cosmetic benefits! The antimicrobial properties are great as a cleanser by minimising chances of infection. The fruit’s leaves act as an anti-irritant for babies in case of rashes. Furthermore, soursop ground paste helps to eliminate dandruff and itchy scalp! For clearer skin that is wrinkle-free, just rub some paste onto the desired areas!

Cancer Killer

Durian belanda (soursop) is most famous for its anticancer properties and is a popular alternative for conventional cancer treatment. Good for preventative action, and delicious as well!

So here’s our list of why Durian belanda (soursop) is a great fruit to add to your diet overall. Many studies indicate the cosmetic and health benefits from drinking tea or eating the fruit has. Have a try and reap the rewards! Who knows, maybe it’ll sneak its way into your regular diet!

This article from BorneoTalk Vol.49 (page 64). Click here for DOWNLOAD
Others Sarawak fruits which you will interest to read:  Asam Embang The Mango to Brighten Your Day