Let star fruit shine: Tangy carambola is a nutritious tropical treat

Add some color, zing, juicy pop -- and surprising health benefits -- to your summer salads with slices of tropical star fruit.

The folklore

The beautiful star fruit (averrhoa carambola) comes from a tree native to the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Today, this treat--called star fruit for the distinctive ridges running down the fruit's skin form a star shape when sliced--are cultivated in many tropical and subtropical areas of the world, from South Florida to Central America and Hawaii.

Historically, star fruit was believed to be useful in the treatment of many ailments, including kidney and bladder problems, fevers, eyesores, hangovers, throat pain, tooth sores, colic, indigestion and jaundice.

The crushed leaves have been applied as an external treatment for chickenpox and ringworm, the roots have been consumed as an antidote for poison, and the juice has been used to clean and polish metals and remove stains from clothing.

The facts

You can eat the entire fruit, including the slightly waxy skin, which changes from green to bright yellow when ripe. The pale yellow flesh is crunchy, firm and juicy, with a flavor reminiscent of citrus fruit and pineapple, and a texture similar to that of grapes. Carambola is rich in fiber and vitamin C and contains a variety of antioxidant phytochemicals, including beta-carotene and lutein.

The findings

Although little clinical research has been conducted on the star fruit's health potential, studies that have been published report some promising benefits, including aiding in stabilizing blood glucose levels, and having anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects. Activity against brain tumor cell growth was observed with an extract from the star fruit stem, while an extract from the leaves was reported to be effective against liver cancer cells, according to preliminary studies. While we're waiting for more research to substantiate star fruit's health rewards, this nutritious fruit is certainly worth starring on your menu.

The finer points

In season from late spring through early summer, star fruit is best consumed shortly after it ripens. Fruits picked while still slightly green will ripen quickly at room temperature. Overripe star fruit is a deep yellow with brown spots, with a more mild flavor and soggier consistency.

Carambola can be problematic for people with kidney problems, such as chronic renal failure; consuming the fruit (only for those suffering from kidney problems) can cause symptoms of "star fruit intoxication," including persistent hiccups, nausea, vomiting, agitation, insomnia, mental confusion and even death.

Although the risk related to these fruits is not completely clear, it's best for people with impaired kidney function to avoid consumption. However, star fruit is perfectly safe for those with normal kidney function.

Enjoy the sweet, ripe fruit on its own--sliced into pretty stars--as a snack, dessert, or addition to a fruit platter. You can add star fruit to salads, salsas, or use it as a garnish for fish, meat or poultry. Carambola can be canned, preserved or dried, and its juice is delicious, making an excellent addition to smoothies or iced tea.

Watch for star fruit at your local grocery store or farm market.

Notable Nutrients (Star Fruit, raw, 1 C, 132 grams)

Calories: 41

Dietary fiber: 4 g (15 percent DV)

Vitamin C: 45.4 mg (76 percent DV)

Copper; .02 mg (9 percent DV)

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