Bilimbi or scientifically known as Averrhoa Bilimbi have dozens of native names. It is widely called as cucumber tree or tree sorrel in English but the tree itself is native to most tropical countries. Filipinos generally called it "kamias" and it is a widely known tree that can be found in most house backyards.
Bilimbi is a fruit-bearing tree from the genus averrhoa plant family, a close relative of carambola. Bilimbi fruit are used in many medicinal purposes because of its high acidic properties. It is also used as a sweetener for various local and international cuisines such as the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Haiti, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Argentina and many others.
Below are the vitamins and nutrients found in a bilimbi fruit:
*Protein, Fiber, Phosphorous, Iron, Calcium, Carotene
*Ascorbic acid (vitamin C), Niacin, Riboflavin, Thiamine
In the Philippines, the leaves of bilimbi tree are used as a treatment relief for skin itches, swellings of mumps and rheumatism. It can also be a good alternative remedy for insect and animal bites. Infused leaf of bilimbi can be used for cough while leaf decoction can give soothe to rectal inflammation.
Preserved bilimbi fruit can also be used for treatment of beri-beri, fever and alleviate internal hemorrhoids. It's very effective in different viral infections because of its high ascorbic acid content which also strengthens the immune system.
In India, bilimbi fruit are used in folk medicine to fight obesity. Experts believe that the fruit's anti-hyperlipidemic properties mainly constitutes of its ability to prevent weight gain. Plus, like any other fruits, it contains antioxidants that prevent free radicals from invading our bodies. As you know, free radicals cause various cancer diseases.