It’s not something that you see every day, nor have you heard its name on just about every corner. Can you guess what it is? Of course not, the reason why this article may intrigue you, is because few have heard about the miraculous Spanish lime or Quenepa fruit and not to mention its numerous health benefits, which are of great interest for us.
History and Origin of the Quenepa Fruit (Spanish lime)
Scientific name: Malicoccus bijugatus
Common names: Spanish lime, quenepa, genip, canepa, ginepa, genipe, limoncillo, kinip, quenepe, chenet
It’s an exotic-looking fruit which grows in the tropical countries such as Africa, South America, Mexico, Florida and the Caribbean. It originates from the north of South America, however you can spot it near the coasts, where it grows naturally. It has an appealing look, as big as an olive, hard on the outside, but soft and jelly-looking on the inside. Its taste can be described both as sweet and sour.
You will see people consuming it raw and fresh, other adding it in sauces or juices, whereas many prefer to add spices such as, chili, lime or some salt. Once you’ve laid your hands on this fruit, you can teeth-open it and the hard layer will open up and you’ll get to the delicious part, which is so nutritious and delicious at the same time.
You can also get a great treat from the edible large seed of this fruit and the seed is also known to have some health benefits on its own such as, relieving diarrhea.
Because of its size, similar to the one of the unripe limes, this fruit is most commonly named as the Spanish lime. You can find it in the grocery shops, sold in clusters or in groups. Inside you can find a colorful flesh, with a pulp around the seeds of the fruit. The most common color of the insides is orange or yellow.
Health benefits of Quenepa Fruit (Spanish lime)
Quenepa Fruit is rich in various nutritious ingredients, such as great amounts of fiber, vitamins A, B1, B3, B6 and B12, minerals- calcium, phosphorous, iron, unsaturated fatty acids, riboflavin, carotene and many other powerful compounds which are extremely beneficial for the human organism.
Some of the health benefits of Spanish lime include:
Boost the immune system
This fruit is loaded with vitamins and minerals, which are much needed for the proper function of our immune system. The presence of vitamin C, promotes the production of the white blood cells. There is also a great amount of vitamin A, which can help in the elimination of the free radicals as well as boost the immune system.
Improve the Digestive System
Due to the presence of the dietary fiber, Spanish lime will improve the
bowel movement, preventing your digestive system from constipation,
cramping and bloating. By implementing guenepas in your daily diet, you
will feel ease in your stomach and improved digestion.
Strengthen the Bones
Apart from the other mineral presence, this fruit contains a fair amount of calcium, which is a crucial mineral for bone strengthening as well as an important mineral for preventing bone-related health problems, such as osteoporosis.
Hormonal balance
Spanish lime is a great source of phosphorous, a mineral which can be taken by consuming some fruits and veggies, however in small quantities. So, people often have problems with phosphorous deficiency, which results in hormonal imbalances and menstrual irregularities. Spanish lime will help you achieve the perfect hormonal balance and proper hormonal function.
Improved Circulation
The presence of iron, contributes to the production of white blood
cells. Therefore, Spanish limes will prevent anemia or other
blood-related health problems. Spanish lime is loaded with iron, you may
want to consider implementing it in your daily diet.
Improved Blood Pressure
Due to the presence of various phenolic compounds, Spanish lime is known
to do wonders for your cardiovascular health as well as controlling and
reducing the cholesterol levels.
Controlling Blood Sugar
Spanish limes are also known to be extremely beneficial and helpful in patients suffering from diabetes.
Losing Weight and Staying Healthy
Spanish limes are low in calories and rich is nutritious ingredient, which will help you maintain a normal body weight and stay healthy at the same time. Due to the dietary fiber, Spanish lime will kill the hunger and give you the feeling of being full.
Nutrition Facts
Like we’ve previously mentioned, Spanish lime is loaded with many nutritious ingredients which promote your overall health. Some of the powerful nutrients found in Spanish lime include:
- Dietary Fiber
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamins B1, B3, B6 and B12
- Calcium
- Iron
- Phosphorous
- Protein
- Amino acids
- Carotene
- Riboflavin
- Unsaturated fatty acids (linoleic and oleic)
- Tannins
- Thiamine
- Tryptophan
- Niacin
Spanish lime in a nutshell…
Like you can see, there are a lot of nutritious compounds in Spanish lime, which work together in order to help you improve your overall health. For instance, vitamin C and A boost the immune system, the dietary fiber promotes digestion, calcium is great for the teeth and bones.
Due to the various vitamins presence, it’s a great and powerful antioxidant, the phosphorus regulates your hormones and phenolic compound found in Spanish limes, promotes the cardiovascular health as well as regulates your blood pressure.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories 56 Sodium 5 mg
- Total Fat 0 g Potassium 0 mg
- Saturated 0 g Total Carbs 19 g
- Polyunsaturated 0 g Dietary Fiber 1 g
- Monounsaturated 0 g Sugars 17 g
- Trans 0 g Protein 1 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Vitamin A 10% Calcium 1%
- Vitamin C 8% Iron 3%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
So, why not enjoy this marvelous fruit and feel the health benefits it has on you or your family! Whichever way you choose to consume it, cooked or raw, you won’t regret it, it’s healthy, delicious and loaded with powerful nutrients.
