Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is a large oval shaped fruit with a green/yellow spiky outer skin that encloses clusters of segments each containing a single seed.
Health Benefits of Jackfruit:
- Increased Protection from Bacterial and Viral Infections
- Increased Immune Function
- Reduced Cancer Risk
- Protection Against Heart Disease
- Alleviation of Cardiovascular Disease
- Alleviation of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Osteoporosis Protection
- Reduced Risk of Type II Diabetes
- Reduced Frequency of Migraine Headaches
- Alleviation of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Antioxidant Protection
- Prevention of Epileptic Seizures
- Prevention of Alopecia (Spot Baldness)
How to choose Jackfruit: A ripe jackfruit will have a smell of a very ripe, almost rotten, melon which some people find disagreeable. However, the pungent smell can be deceiving as the fruit inside will have a pleasant flavor.
Climate and origin: Jackfruits originated on the Indian subcontinent and Asian mainland. Jack-fruit is tropical requiring a hot and moist climate. (Zone 10 in the U.S.)
Taste: Jackfruit generally has a pungent and subtly sweet taste with either a thick viscous texture or a crisp texture, depending on variety.
Miscellaneous information: Jackfruit is the largest fruit to grow from a tree, and can reach weights up to 80 pounds (36kg).
