Full List of Fruits Batuan fruit
Introduction of Batuan fruitUses of Batuan fruitHealth Benefits and Habitat of Batuan fruitCultivation and PropagationNutritional value of Batuan fruitHarvesting of Batuan fruit
Batuan Fruit
Scientific name - Garcinia binucao
Indigenous to the south east region, the Binucao tree reaches to a height of about 25m approximately. Rooted from the family Clusiaceae, they are widespread in low altitude forests; and are prevalent in Philippines and Vietnam. Seeing that, it is a fruit with a very sour taste, they are mostly used as a souring agent in local food recipes. As a matter of fact, they are a close relative of mangosteen. Classified under the category of sub-globose fruits, they have a multi-sectioned pod of sour flavor seeds. With ovate oblong leaves, the leaves of Binucao are just about 15cm long and rounded at both ends; however they are medium-sized. With countless number of seeds, the outer covering of the fruit is firm and contains a very acidic pulp. With a pendulous branch, the flowers are small, red in color and borne in clusters. The leaves of the tree being shiny and smooth, it has a bark that's black in color. Coming to the fruits, they are rounded to an extent and are 4cm in diameter.
With great economic importance or potentials that were identified, Binucao is one of the 300 species of fruits. Sources say that this unutilized species is useful as a home garden fruit tree and its fruits may be eaten raw. Just like any other Garcinia varieties, even Binucao can be preserved by slicing into thin pieces and then drying under the sun. They are used for making pickles.
Health Benefits and Habitat of Batuan fruit
Used to treat dysentery: Drinking plenty of fluids is important to prevent dehydration from diarrhea.
Boosts Immunity: Batuan fruit is known to be rich in vitamin C, which helps to boost the immune system, making it an ideal fruit for fighting off colds and other illnesses.
Prevents Anemia: Batuan fruit is a great source of iron, which is essential for the formation of red blood cells and helps to prevent anemia.
Rich in Antioxidants: Batuan fruit is high in antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from free radical damage and reduce the risk of developing certain diseases.
Improves Digestion: The fiber content of Batuan fruit helps to improve digestion and can help to prevent constipation.
Improves Heart Health: Batuan fruit is rich in potassium, which is known to help regulate blood pressure, reduce the risk of stroke, and improve heart health.
As far as the habitation of Binucao trees are concerned, they are found speckled and are second-storey trees of primary lowland and secondary forests.
Environmental requirements:
The Binucao tree is said to thrive in a well drained area at low altitude.
Seeing that the trees are logged for shifting cultivation, the population of these wild trees are declining at a very fast pace. With that said, there is a great need for saving this species from disappearance by planting trees. Dioecious in nature, it is not possible to determine the sex of trees visually at the time of planting and new trees can be raised from seeds. It has also been tried as a rootstock.
Though there is no specific information on this species, Sources say that there is a healthy eating tradition for this fruit that is difficult to propagate and it is the seed of most members of the genus can be slow to take root, even if sown fresh, often taking 6 months or more.
Nutritional value of Batuan fruit
| Vitamin C | 25%-30% |
| Potassium | 8%-10% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2%-3% |
| Magnesium | 0.3%-0.5% |
| Phosphorus | 0.3%-0.5% |
| Calcium | 0.2%-0.4% |
The harvesting of Batuan fruit usually takes place in the summer months, as the fruit is at its peak maturity during this time. Typically, the harvesting process begins with the collection of the fruit. This involves the use of long poles with a hook on the end to pluck the fruit from the branches of the tree. The fruit is then collected in a basket or a bag and taken to the market. Once at the market, the Batuan fruit is sorted and graded according to the size and quality.
The smaller and less ripe fruits are used for making jams and jellies, while the larger and more ripe ones are used for eating fresh. After sorting and grading, the Batuan fruit is then packaged and sold to customers. Depending on the customer's preference, the fruit can be sold in its original form or pre-cut into slices. Once the Batuan fruit has been purchased, it is best to consume it as soon as possible. The fruit is highly perishable and should be refrigerated as soon as it is bought. It can also be frozen for later use. The Batuan fruit is a popular ingredient in many Filipino dishes, such as sinigang and ginataan. It can also be used as a souring agent in stews and curries.
For a more unique flavor, the fruit can be cooked with sugar and spices to make a sweet and sour jam. Overall, the harvesting of Batuan fruit is an important part of Filipino culture. The fruit is highly valued for its unique flavor and texture, and is a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes. The harvesting process is fairly straightforward and the fruit is easy to find in local markets. Therefore, Batuan fruit is a great way to bring a little bit of the tropics into your kitchen.
