By Hela Wedakama
In Sri Lanka, there exists a form of traditional medicine known as “hela medicine,” which often transcends the bounds of Western medicine. Western society commonly refers to it as Ayurveda, but its meaning runs deeper. This article will explore one of nature’s gifts that we are all familiar with – the passion fruit.
If you are someone who struggles with sleep, consider turning to nature’s remedy rather than resorting to synthetic pills. The humble passion fruit might be the natural solution you’re seeking.
What is Passion Fruit?
Passion fruit is a hardy, climbing vine that wraps itself around trees. While there are two main varieties of passion fruit, the purple and yellow ones, their origins differ. The purple passion fruit hails from Brazil, whereas the origin of the yellow variety remains uncertain.
The purple passion fruit is a subtropical species, while the yellow variety grows more rapidly, reaching maturity in about a year. However, the purple passion fruit is more vulnerable to nematode damage compared to its yellow counterpart.
These vines thrive in environments with adequate sunlight and regular watering. When the fruit nears maturity, increased watering is required. Typically, passion fruit vines grow to a height of 15-20 feet and remain productive for 5-7 years.
Pollination and Appearance
Passion fruit vines require pollination by bees, which is vital for the successful development of the fruit. The fruits themselves are round or egg-shaped, with a tough outer skin covered by a soft waxy layer. Inside, you’ll find approximately 250 small black seeds. Ripe passion fruits can be dark yellow or purple in colour.
Nutritional Value
Ripe passion fruit is packed with essential nutrients, including:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Fibre
- Potassium
- Iron
- Copper
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
Health Benefits of Passion Fruit
- Prevents High Blood Pressure: Passion fruit is rich in potassium, which helps regulate sodium levels in the body, preventing high blood pressure and related heart issues.
- Cleanses the Intestines: The soluble fibre in passion fruit aids in preventing the accumulation of toxins in the intestines, promoting digestive health.
- Improves Eyesight: The vitamins C and A, along with flavonoids, protect the eyes from free radical damage, helping to preserve and improve vision.
- Boosts Blood Production: Passion fruit provides 20% of the daily iron requirement. The vitamin C in the fruit enhances iron absorption, promoting healthy blood volume production.
- Aids Digestion: The fibre in passion fruit enhances digestion, improving nutrient absorption.
- Strengthens Immunity: Thanks to its high vitamin C content, passion fruit strengthens the immune system, aiding in the quick recovery from colds and flu.
- Promotes Restful Sleep: Passion fruit has a calming effect on nerve fibers, helping to promote a good night’s sleep.
- Supports Asthma Management: Passion fruit has been shown to help in the control of asthma.
- Prevents Cancer: Recent studies, including tests conducted at the University of Peradeniya, have revealed that passion fruit leaves are one of the best natural remedies for cancer.
In conclusion, the passion fruit offers a wealth of health benefits, from promoting heart health to improving digestion, boosting immunity, and even aiding in cancer prevention. Whether you consume it for its nutritional value or medicinal properties, passion fruit truly embodies nature’s medicine.