What is a Rambutan?

Rambutan is a hairy, strange looking fruit at first glance. The rambutan grows well in hot weather. The fruit is bright red in colour and can usually be found Malay countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia. The rambutan can often be mistaken for its resemblance with the lychee when it is peeled off from the shell. The rambutan offers an incredible sweet and juicy taste that does not overwhelm your taste buds.

What are the Health Benefits?

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. 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. Kills Intestinal Parasites. According to traditional Chinese medicine, rambutan can help expel parasites in the gut because of its antifungal properties. Contains Phosphorus. Rambutan is a good source of phosphorus, which helps in bone formation and the maintenance of your bones and teeth. 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.

Did you know?

The name rambutan originates from the work rambut which means hair in malay. Oil extracted from the rambutan seed can be used as cooking oil. This oil is also used for the manufacture of candles and soaps. Rambutan produces small, disk-shaped, petal less flowers arranged in the multi-branched, erect clusters at the end of the branches. Flowers emit sweet aroma. Rambutan produces fruit two times per year. It starts to produce fruit 5 to 6 years after planting. Each tree can produce 5000 to 6000 fruit per season.