Overview
In Suriname's traditional medicine, an extract
of the rind of the Star apple is taken as a pectoral. An extract of the bark is used as a tonic and stimulant,
and is taken to halt diarrhea.
Constituents
The volatile constituents of the star apple, (E)-2-hexenal, 1-hexanol, limonene, linalool,
a-copaene and hexadecanoic acid were found to be the major constituents.
Nine known polyphenolic antioxidants, (+)-catechin (1), (-)-epicatechin (2), (+)-gallocatechin (3),
(-)-epigallocatechin (4), quercetin (5), quercitrin (6), isoquercitrin (7), myricitrin (8), and gallic acid, have
been identified from the fruits. Of these nine antioxidants, 2 is present in the highest concentration in star
apple fruits (7.3 mg/kg fresh weight), and 5 showed the highest antioxidant activity.
Pharmacology
The edible fruit of star apple was extracted in methanol and subjected to solvent-solvent
partitioning to yield three fractions, hexane, ethyl acetate, and aqueous. The semi-purified fractions exhibited
high antioxidant capacity. Cyanidin-3-O-ß-glucopyranoside, an anthocyanin antioxidant, was identified from
semi-purified aqueous fractions of the tropical fruit star apple (Chrysophyllum cainito).
A preliminary study on the relaxant effect of the crude extract and fractions of the bark in isolated rat thoracic
aorta: Methanolic bark extract study on rats showed vasorelaxant activity on the smooth muscle.
Plant samples of 178 species and 62 families were studied for lectin activity. Potent lectins, possessing more
than 100,000 unites per gram, were found in the fruits extracts.
Applications

Infusions of the leaf is used against diabetes and articular rheumatism. A decoction
of the rind, or of the leaves, is taken as a pectoral.
Dosage
Tincture: 1 - 4 ml. (1 - 4 full droppers) daily.
Infusion: 1 - 2 cups daily.
Precaution
None
Reference
Polyphenolic antioxidants from the fruits of Chrysophyllum cainito L. (star
apple)
LUO Xiao-Dong; BASILE Margaret J.; KENNELLY Edward J.
The above presentation is for informational and educational purposes only.
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage.
For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over - the - counter medication is also available.
Consult your doctor, practitioner, and / or pharmacist for any health problem and before using dietary supplements
or before making any changes in prescribed medications.
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