Breadfruit is a major staple crop in the islands of Oceania, South Pacific and other tropical areas. and has been for millennia.
Description
The breadfruit tree grows 12 to 18 metres (40 to 60 feet) high and has large, oval, glossy green leaves, three- to nine-lobed toward the apex. The ripe fruits, or matured ovaries, of these pistillate flowers are roundish, 10 to 20 centimetres (4 to 8 inches) in diameter, and greenish to brownish green and have a white, somewhat fibrous pulp.
Health Benefits
Reduces Joint and Muscle Pain
Breadfruit is a rich source of prenylated phenolic compounds. These compounds include stilbenoids, flavonoids, coumarins, and xanthones which research indicates that may be helpful in the treatment of rheumatic and muscular pain due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
Provides Health Boosting Plant Compounds
Breadfruit’s beneficial effects are in part due to the anti-inflammatory actions the prenylated phenolic compounds have. It provides antioxidant properties. They’ve also been studied for their anti-diabetic activity, obesity prevention, cardioprotection, immune system boosting, neuroprotection, and bone-protective properties.
Makes a Nourishing Flour Replacement
Since breadfruit is gluten-free, its flour offers a gut-friendly alternative for those who have celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Research shows that breadfruit flour is more easily digestible than wheat flour as well.
Prevents Bacterial Infections
Breadfruit extracts containing ethyl acetate and methanol have been found to have antibacterial effects, especially in regard to bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
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