What Is Rambutan Good For?
Not a lot of people from the Western part of the world are familiar with the rambutan fruit, mostly because it is native to Malay countries, such as Malaysia and Indonesia. It is primarily known for its similarities with the lychee and the longan fruit, particularly its transparent-whitish flesh and the seed in the middle. This is because these fruits are actually close relatives.1
Although they are similar, the outer cover or shell is what sets these three fruits apart. Nevertheless, the rambutan fruit can be easily identified because of its green and red spikes that resemble hair, which is interesting because the name “Rambutan” comes from the Malay word for “hair.”2
The rambutan tree usually grows up to about 80 feet in height and thrives in tropical climates, mostly in Asia where these fruits are abundant. This plant has been cultivated in different parts of the globe as well. Rambutan trees have been planted in specific parts of Australia and Central America.3 Rambutan season actually occurs twice a year: from June to August and December to January.
Although rambutan and lychee come from the same family, there are distinct differences when it comes to their composition and the nutrients they contain. The fruits can be easily differentiated because of the lychee’s bumpy skin and the rambutan’s spiky appearance.
Lychee contains dietary fiber and an abundance of vitamins and minerals, like phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamins D and C. It also contains oligonol, a polyphenol that helps in improving a person’s endurance and immunity.
Rambutan, on the other hand, contains a high amount of fiber – higher than that of lychee. While rambutan does not contain oligonol, it boasts a high amount of iron, which helps keep the cardiovascular system in optimal condition.5
When talking about flavor, some people say that rambutan tastes blander and denser than lychee. Some say that they taste similar; others claim that rambutan tastes sweeter.6 Nevertheless, both of these fruits exude a sweet aroma and an even sweeter taste.
While lychee and rambutan may look alike when their outer skins are removed, they have distinct differences which make the playing ground quite equal in terms of their health benefits.
RAMBUTAN 1 KG THAILAND
Uses of the Rambutan Fruit and Plant
Rambutan’s uses don’t necessarily focus on the fruit alone, as the different parts of the tree can be used in lots of ways. Here are some examples:
•Rambutan leaves can be used for basic hair care. Mash the leaves into a paste, add water and squeeze the extract. Apply the extract to your hair and scalp. This will help improve your hair health.7
The leaves can be used to treat fever as well. Boil a few rambutan leaves in 3 glasses of water, and then strain. Drink this concoction three times a day to help your body recover. They may also work for relieving headaches. Mash leaves and apply on your temples to help with migraines.8
•Rambutan seeds can be used to uplift your skin. Mash the seeds into a paste and apply on your skin to achieve a clearer and a more even-looking complexion. Using rambutan seeds on your skin regularly will help your skin become softer and healthier.9
The seeds can also be used to help patients with diabetes. Take the seeds, chop them into small pieces and allowed to dry for a few days. Grind the seeds into a fine powder. Mix it with hot water and drink. This will help you maintain your blood sugar at healthy levels.10
Health Benefits of Rambutan
The rambutan fruit is a conglomeration of vitamins and minerals, all encased in a sweet and juicy little package. Despite its small size, it actually packs a considerable amount of vitamin C, which is important for helping keep your immune system healthy and flushing out toxins.
It is also a good source of copper. Even though the body needs only a limited amount of it in the system, copper works together with iron in keeping your blood vessels, immune system, bones and the production of red blood cells at peak condition.11 Rambutan is also a good source of iron,12 which is why ingesting this fruit is especially useful for the maintenance and the production of red blood cells.
If anyone ever asks you, “Is rambutan good for you?” you’ll know that your answer is yes. Other rambutan fruit benefits include:
- High Fiber Content. The high fiber content of rambutan aids the digestive system in food metabolism, preventing constipation. It is also low in calories, which helps promote weight loss and restrain sudden hunger pangs.13
- Antiseptic Qualities. Rambutan is famous for its antiseptic properties that help the body fight off infections. The fruit also contains high amounts of antioxidants, which makes it both antimicrobial and anticarcinogenic.14
- Kills Intestinal Parasites. According to traditional Chinese medicine, rambutan can help expel parasites in the gut because of its antifungal properties. 15
- Contains Phosphorus. Rambutan is a good source of phosphorus, which helps in bone formation and the maintenance of your bones and teeth.16
- Contains Gallic Acid. The rambutan rind contains a high amount of gallic acid, which functions as a free radical scavenger. This compound helps prevent cancer and oxidative damage
