Full List of Fruits Gac fruitGac fruit
Gac (Momordica cochinchinensis) is also known as baby jackfruit, spiny gourd, or sweet gourd. The fruit is bright red or orange in color and has a spiny, bumpy exterior. Inside, the flesh is bright orange and filled with small seeds. Gac fruit has a sweet and sour flavor, similar to a sweet potato.
Scientific name - Momordica cochinchinensis
Momordica cochinchinensis is a native fruit of Southeast Asia. It is found to be grown abundant in the regions of Southern China to Northeastern Australia, including Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia and Vietnam. Gac grows on dioecious vines that bears the fruit only once in a year. The fruit is typically round measuring about 13 cm in length and 10 cm in diameter. Small spines like protrusions cover the entire outer skin. The fruit is rich in beta-carotene. It possesses high phytonutrient content and hence used in a form of juice dietary supplements.
Nutritional Value of Gac fruit
| Nutritients | Nutritional Value | Nutritients | Nutritional Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 40 | Sodium | 10 mg |
| Total Fat | 0 g | Potassium | 0 mg |
| Saturated | 0 g | Total Carbs | 10 g |
| Polyunsaturated | 0 g | Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Monounsaturated | 0 g | Sugars | 8 g |
| Trans | 0 g | Protein | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | ||
| Vitamin A | 6% | Calcium | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 100% | Iron | 0% |
Medicinal Uses of Gac fruit
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- High in Antioxidants: Gac fruit contains very high amounts of carotenoids, which are powerful antioxidants that can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. These carotenoids give the fruit its bright red color.
- Immune System Booster: Gac fruit is a great source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps the body to fight off infection and disease, as well as protect against cell damage.
- Boosts Metabolism: Gac fruit contains a compound called lycopene, which has been shown to increase the body's metabolism and help with weight loss.
- Good for the Skin: Gac fruit is rich in vitamin A, which can help to keep the skin looking healthy and young. Vitamin A helps to hydrate and nourish the skin, and can even help to protect the skin from sun damage.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Gac fruit contains compounds that can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to alleviate pain and discomfort.
- Rich in Essential Nutrients: Gac fruit is also rich in essential nutrients such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc, which can help to keep the body healthy and strong.
To begin propagation, the first step is to collect ripe Gac fruit and separate the seeds from the pulp. The seeds can then be soaked in a bucket of water for 1-2 days to soften the seed coats. After the seeds have been soaked, they can be planted in moist, well-drained soil at a depth of about 1/4 inch. It is important to keep the soil moist and the seeds warm during germination.
Once germination has occurred, the seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots and allowed to grow for several months before planting into the ground. When planting in the ground, the vines should be spaced at least 4 feet apart. The vines will begin to climb as they grow, and they should be supported with stakes or trellises.
Gac vines require full sun, regular watering, and well-drained soil. Fertilizer may also be applied during the growing season to promote healthier growth. With proper care, Gac vines can produce fruit within 1-2 years.
Harvesting Gac fruit can be done when the fruit is bright red in color and soft to the touch. The fruits are typically eaten fresh, or can be used in various recipes. Gac seeds can also be collected from the fruits and used for future propagation.
