Student Projects/Medicinal uses of jackfruit

JACKFRUIT : A WONDER FRUIT

MEDICINAL USES OF JACKFRUIT.

Jackfruit belongs to the family Moraceae. The family also includes species of trees like fig, mulberry, breadfruit etc. It is a Monecious tree. The fertilization is by cross-pollination and the propagation is mainly through seeds. It is widely cultivated in tropical regions of world as it is well-suited to tropical lowlands.

The jackfruit is a multiple fruit composed of hundreds of individual flowers with fleshy petals. The fruit is utilized in its tender  stage, when it is unripe and also after ripening. The tender and unripe jackfruit substitute meat in vegans. The ripe fruit has a mixed taste of apple and pineapple.

Jackfruit has many medicinal properties.Jackfruit is rich in nutrients including carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. Phytonutrients such as lignans, isoflavones, and saponins in jackfruit contribute to its anticancer, antihypertensive, antiulcer, and antiaging properties. They prevent the formation of cancer cells in the body and fight against stomach ulcers

It also contains functional compounds that have capability to reduce various diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stork and also bone loss. The Pottasium aids in lowering of blood pressure and reversing the effects of sodium that causes rise in blood pressure that affects the heart and blood vessels. This inturn prevents heart disease and stroke.This also help to improve muscle and nerve function.

It is also capable of reducing homocysteine levels in blood. The vitamin-B6 present in jackfruit plays this job. This helps in lowering the risk of heart disease and maintaining sugar levels. Jackfruit is good source of vitamin-C, which helps to protect skin.