Star apple tree (Chrysophyllum cainito) is native to the West Indies and the Greater Antilles. It loves the tropics and is popularly known as Caimito, Golden Leaf Tree, Milk Fruit, Satin Leaf, Star apple, Kayimit, Stingy Tree, Star Plum, West Indian Star Apple, Abiaba, Cainito, pomme de lait, Estrella and aguay.
Various parts of the tree, including its leaves, fruits, and flowers have been used as natural remedies.
Medicinal Uses of Star Apple Leaves
Star apple leaves are alternate, elliptic or oblong-elliptic, 5–15 cm long. They are rich green and glossy on the upper surface, and coated with persistent reddish-brown silky indumentum on the underside. When these leaves matured, they impart a golden bronze color to the underside. Some of the constituents of these leaves are carbohydrate, iron, niacin, and amino acids.
The significant medicinal properties of star apple leaves can either be used in the form of tea, ointment, or decoction.
Helps Treat Wounds
Star apple leaves possess wound healing and antioxidant capability. These effects are mainly attributed to its phenolic compounds. Its leaves are grated and applied as a poultice to a wound for faster healing.
Helps Ease Stomach Ache
Star apple leaves contain emollient having an anti-inflammatory activity which is helpful in soothing and easing stomach pain.
Helps Manage Diabetes Symptoms
Traditionally, a decoction of the leaves is used as a remedy for diabetes mellitus. Regular consumption of star apple leaf tea can make a diabetic person feel better.
Helps Maintain Oral Health
When it comes to maintaining oral health, star apple leaves are helpful. They have antiseptic and antibacterial properties, thus making them an effective mouthwash and useful in reducing cavities, minimizing dental diseases, oral infection, and gum-related problems.
Other Traditional Uses Of Star Apple Leaves
- A leaf decoction is used for people suffering from hypoglycemia.
- A decoction of leaves is used for hypertension.
- A decoction of the leaves is gargled to relieve angina, chest pain or discomfort caused when your heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood.
- A decoction of the fruit rind, or of the leaves, is taken as a pectoral.
- We can make a tea by boiling some star apple leaves. Strain and drink the tea. For those who preferred it cold, the tea can be placed in the refrigerator for further use.