In this world, there are two types of people: those who were raised on atatilis and those who have no idea who they are. You are in for a treat if you fall into the latter group.
Introducing the tiny berry that will make you want to look for it the next time you go grocery shopping, thanks to its four amazing health benefits.
What are Aratilis?
The tiny red berry known as aratilis is only found in a few places across the world, such as Mexico, the Caribbean, Asia, and the Philippines. It is also known by the names Muntingia calabura, Jamaica cherry, strawberry tree, capulin, Panama berry, Singapore tree, and saresa, in addition to its Filipino name, Aratilis. Everything depends on where it is being consumed. With just the right amount of water and sunlight, they grow with little effort. It only takes the tree and berries two years to reach a height of three meters. They grow extremely quickly.In its mother countries, aratilis are usually eaten raw, similar to other familiar fruits. Some people sell this berry to the market to produce jams. The leaves are used for tea. In Brazil, the fisherman found a way to utilize it for their trade by planting the trees along river banks. This supposedly attracts the fish. In Indonesia and the Philippines, children eat the aratilis with no reason to sell them for profit.
If you grew up with these cultures, you could attest to enjoying this fruit as a child. If you or your kids still eat it, read on to discover what this has been doing for your health.
The Health Benefits of Aratilis
1. Anti-Bacterial
The body has natural methods to distil and expel foreign bacteria, but sometimes it needs help from outside sources, like foods. When you feel a cold coming on, you are recovering from a virus, or your immune system is low for any reason, aratilis is a great fruit to try. Its antibacterial properties are astounding, like antibiotics in a berry.
2. Improves Cognition
Aratilis is rich in flavanone compounds. Researchers have found that eating foods rich in this compound helps the development and proper function of the brain. Consuming this berry regularly with similarly beneficial foods can help those who are experiencing a mild cognitive impairment, or those with a neurodegenerative disease.
3. Anti-Inflammatory
Inflammation is a widespread condition that can affect any part of the body. Eating aratilis fruits can counter this unhealthy ailment and reduce swelling.
4. Fights Cancer
Aratilis is full of cytotoxic flavonoids, which are a potent cancer fighter. The fruit is delicious to eat for this perk, but the stems and leaves of the tree are also powerful when it comes to preventing certain cancers. Many people already drink that part of the plant brewed in a tea.
Try Some Today!
Science is still catching up to rediscover the traditional methods of healing so there is still more research to be done about aratilis and its health properties. Until scientists take the time to study these fruits more in depth, it is recommended for you to sample these berries. They are savory and as healthy as other popular fruits.
If you grew up on aratilis, keep on eating them. You already know they are good.
Sources:
(1) StethNEWS. Your Favorite Childhood Fruit, Aratilis, Has BIG Health Benefits. http://www.stethnews.com/2804/your-favorite-childhood-fruit-aratilis-has-big-health-benefits/. Published: September 28, 2015. Accessed: October 14, 2016.
(2) Anastasia.Your FAVORITE Childhood Fruit Aratilis Has BIG Health Benefits. http://www.dietoflife.com/favorite-childhood-fruit-aratilis-big-health-benefits/ Accessed: October 14, 2016.