11 Amazing Benefits of Karonda

June 12, 2023

Have you ever eaten Karonda? Karonda is an exotic fruit that is known for its numerous medicinal properties.

Let’s find out more about Karonda, its benefits and its uses in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda in this article.

What Is Karonda (1)?

Karonda, scientifically known as Carissa carandas Linn., is an exotic and minor fruit that is also referred to as “Christ’s thorn.” This fruit grows in the wild bushes and is cultivated to a limited extent in the tropical and subtropical Mediterranean region of India.

Karonda holds significant importance as a medicinal plant among various indigenous systems of medicine, including Unani, Ayurveda, and Homoeopathy. It is also widely utilised by tribals throughout India for its medicinal properties.

The Many Benefits of Karonda

Inflammation (1)

Primary Benefits: The methanolic extract of Karonda leaves has been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties.

Secondary Benefits: This helps alleviate inflammation and prevent diseases linked with chronic inflammation like cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, etc.

Oxidative Stress (1)

Primary Benefits: Karonda is a potent antioxidant. The fruit extract exhibits exceptional scavenging activity against various radicals such as nitric oxide, DPPH, and peroxide.

Secondary Benefits: It, therefore, helps combat oxidative stress, enhance immune function and prevent several chronic diseases and disorders.

Cancer (1)

Primary Benefits: Karonda fruit extracts have shown excellent anticancer activity against lung cancer cells and human ovarian carcinoma cells.

Secondary Benefits: The extracts also exhibit significant antioxidant activity and enhance cell death in cancer cells.

Diabetes (1)

Primary Benefits: Aqueous and methanolic extracts of Karonda leaves and fruits have demonstrated significant anti-diabetic activity.

Secondary Benefits: Additionally, Karonda extracts also contain flavonoids and phenolic compounds that help manage diabetes.

Cardiovascular Health (1)

Primary Benefits: Karonda root extract exhibits cardioprotective activity and helps lower blood pressure levels and heart rate.

Secondary Benefits: Furthermore, it also contains water-soluble glucosides called odoroside, which further contribute to its cardiovascular effects.

Malaria (1)

Primary Benefits: Both methanolic and aqueous extracts of Karonda leaf, stem bark, and fruit show promising antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum.

Secondary Benefits: Hence, Karonda can significantly aid in the treatment of malaria as well as prevent malarial infections.

Viral & Bacterial Infections (1)

Primary Benefits: The ethanolic fruit extract of Karonda exhibits effective antiviral activity against poliovirus, HIV-1, Sindbis virus, and herpes simplex virus.

Secondary Benefits: The extract also shows powerful antibacterial activity against various bacteria and extensive anticandidal action.

Gastrointestinal Health (2)

Primary Benefits: The soluble fibre content in Karonda helps promote smooth bowel movement and improve the functioning of the digestive system.

Secondary Benefits: The fruit also contains pectin which further contributes to better digestion.

Skin Health (2)

Primary Benefits: Karonda is rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other phytonutrients, all of which exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial activity.

Secondary Benefits: As a result, Karonda helps treat and prevent skin infections, rejuvenate the skin and improve overall skin health.

Mental Health (2)

Primary Benefits: Karonda is loaded with magnesium, vitamins, and tryptophan that help stimulate the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and mental well-being.

Secondary Benefits: As such, Karonda helps regulate mood, reduce stress and anxiety and enhance overall mental functioning.

Liver Health (2)

Primary Benefits: Studies have shown that the root extracts of Karonda can help reduce toxicity and inflammation, thereby exhibiting protective activity against the liver.

Secondary Benefits: The root extracts have also been found to be beneficial in lowering the activities of liver enzymes and oxidation of lipids, thus maintaining overall liver health.

Uses of Karonda in Ayurveda (2)

According to Ayurveda, unripe Karonda fruits hold various therapeutic properties. They can be used as an astringent, appetiser, antipyretic (fever-reducing), and antidiabetic agent to treat several diseases and disorders.

Additionally, Ayurveda also promotes the use of Karonda for treating gastrointestinal disorders such as indigestion, constipation, and diarrhoea.

Furthermore, Ayurvedic practices have also utilised Karonda to address mental illness, suggesting its potential benefits for mental well-being.

The diverse applications of Karonda in Ayurveda highlight its significance as a natural remedy for multiple health conditions.

How to Use Karonda (2)?

Karonda is a versatile fruit that can be used in various recipes to create delicious dishes. Here are some ways to incorporate Karonda into your culinary creations:

Kheer: Cook rice with milk and add a paste made from Karonda and sugar for a flavorful twist on traditional rice pudding.
Popsicle: Blend Karonda with honey and yoghurt, then freeze the mixture in popsicle moulds for a refreshing and healthy treat.
Chutney: Grind seedless Karonda with spices, salt, and lemon juice to create a tangy and flavorful chutney that can be enjoyed with snacks or as a condiment.
Karonda Juice: Extract the juice from Karonda fruits, add sugar and salt to taste, and serve chilled for a refreshing and nutritious beverage.

On a Final Note

Karonda is a remarkable fruit with a plethora of health benefits. Its anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidant activity, and anticancer potential make it a valuable addition to any diet.

Furthermore, Karonda shows promise in managing diabetes, promoting cardiovascular health, combating malaria, and fighting viral and bacterial infections. Its positive effects on gastrointestinal health, skin health, mental well-being, and liver health further highlight its versatility.

As an integral part of Ayurvedic medicine, Karonda offers a natural remedy for various ailments. With its versatility in the kitchen, you can explore exciting recipes and enjoy the delicious flavours of Karonda while reaping its numerous health advantages.

FAQs

1. Can Karonda help with indigestion?

Yes, according to Ayurveda, Karonda is recommended for treating gastrointestinal disorders, including indigestion. Its soluble fibre content promotes smooth bowel movement and improves the functioning of the digestive system.

2. Is Karonda suitable for people with diabetes?

Yes, Karonda has demonstrated significant anti-diabetic activity in studies. The extracts of Karonda leaves and fruits contain compounds that help manage diabetes. However, it is always advisable for people with diabetes to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating Karonda into their diet.

3. Can Karonda be used for skincare?

Yes, Karonda is beneficial for skin health due to its rich content of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other phytonutrients. These compounds exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity, helping to treat and prevent skin infections, rejuvenate the skin, and improve overall skin health.

4. Are there any precautions to consider while using Karonda?

Although Karonda is generally safe for consumption, it is advisable to consume it in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are on medication.

Disclaimer: This article is written from a health and lifestyle perspective. It is for general information and not meant to substitute any medical advice. Please consult your doctor for appropriate medical consultation.