The main health benefits of genipap are fighting anemia and aiding in good intestinal functioning. But, it is its role in controlling the discomforts experienced by pregnant women that put him in the spotlight.
The genipap is an aromatic fruit pulp used in food. It serves as raw material for jams, sweets, syrups, teas and liqueurs. People use the plant in diverse ways in the kitchen. Its fruits are rich in fiber and iron. This makes it a natural remedy.
Also to those already mentioned, genipap has other advantages for the body. Learn more about its effects and how best to enjoy them. Enjoy and learn how to make this fruit’s juice, liqueur, and sweets.
Table of Contents
Benefits of genipap
According to nutritionist Angélica Grecco, the fruit is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins B1, B2, B5, and C. It also has fiber, phosphorus, and proteins. These nutrients bring many health benefits. The main 6 advantages of its consumption are:
It helps in the treatment of rheumatism.
Prevents and controls anemia: the fruit is rich in iron, one of the essential nutrients to keep red blood cells healthy.
The tea from the plant is laxative. It promotes proper intestinal function and fights stomach problems.
It improves digestion and stimulates appetite.
Genipap syrup is widespread. It treats respiratory diseases such as bronchitis, asthma, and flu.
It acts as an aphrodisiac: the genipap juice boosts the libido in both men and women.
You can enjoy all parts of Genipapo. People use the root to make a laxative tea. The bark fights ulcers. The seeds help fight stomach problems by making juices.
Ally of pregnant women
Genipap is also indicated for pregnant women. They often feel a lot of nausea and vomiting. Pregnant women can drink Genipap juice every two hours. It helps keep the nervous system stable.
Do you lose weight?
Genipap is not indicated for weight loss, explains the nutritionist. It is considered caloric, as a 100-gram serving of it contains 113 calories. Anyone who wants to lose weight should consume the fruit.
In contrast, it is ideal for children who need to gain weight. Being caloric, it stimulates the appetite and gives energy to the body.
How to use in cooking
Genipap fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. Ripe fruit has a strong aroma and a sweet, acidic flavor. It’s great for making jams, sweets, ice cream, and soft drinks. It’s especially appreciated in the North and Northeast of Brazil for making liqueur.
You can make wine from the fruit by fermenting it. You can also extract aromatic oil from the flowers. Here are the 3 recipes that Genipap can make.
1. Genipap candy
Ingredients
2 to 5 genipap fruits
2 kg of crystal sugar
1 liter of water
Clove and cinnamon to taste.
Preparation mode
First, prepare the genipap: peel it, remove the seeds, wash it well, and cut it into strips. Then, in a pan, place the fruits with ½ liter of water and wait for it to boil. Drain the water and place the remaining water and sugar with the genipap. Cook over medium heat until thickened. Add the cinnamon and cloves, and you’re done.
2. Genipap juice
Ingredients
One genipap
250 ml of water
Sugar or sweetener.
Preparation mode
Wash the genipap, remove the pits, and cut it into pieces. Put all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Strain and serve with ice cubes.
3. Genipap liquor
Ingredients
Four genipaps
1 liter of water
1 kg of crystal sugar
½ liter of cachaça.
Preparation mode
1st step: wash the genipap and cut them in half. Please place them in a jar and let them soak in the cachaça for ten days.
2nd step: mix sugar and water over high heat until it forms a thick syrup. Remove from heat and wait for it to cool.
3rd step:
Take the soaked genipap in the cachaça and pour it over the syrup, squeezing the fruit with your hand.
Strain the drink into a flannel or paper strainer.
Repeat until the liquid is very clear.
4th step: Store in a glass bottle.
Fruit characteristics
The genipap tree is native to South and Central America. It resists drought and adapts well to different soil types and temperatures. In Brazil, it is common in the Northeast region.
The jenipapo (Genipa Americana) is leafy and has a rounded crown. Its very fragrant white-yellow flowers attract attention. The large, brown, globe-shaped fruits have a sweet pulp and flat seeds. And you can only harvest them when they are ripe.
Curiosity
In Tupi-Guarani, Jenipapo means “fruit that can be used to paint.” Brazilian Indians use it to paint their bodies and objects in religious ceremonies and rituals.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.