Health Benefits of Siniguelas

Rose May Pimentel in Health

Jul 20, 2021 • 3 min Read

Siniguelas is also known as Spanish plum and is commonly referred to as “Food of the Gods” in the Philippines because of its numerous health benefits – rich in vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and antioxidants.

Siniguelas is consumed fresh, unripe (fresh or cooked) or ripe, macerated in sugarcane alcohol, and dehydrated (sweet or salty). The juice of this fruit is commonly used for preparing jams, atoles, desserts, beverages (fresh or fermented), and vinegar.

Here are some of the amazing benefits of siniguelas:

1. Strengthens the Immune System

Siniguelas consists of iron and other nutrients, such as vitamins A, B, and C, calcium and phosphorus which makes them an excellent ally for strengthening the immune system in general. It is also used to treat debilitating diseases such as dengue.

2. Improves Digestion

Siniguelas contains fibers that help in proper bowel functioning. It prevents or aids in the treatment of problems such as diarrhea, dysentery, and gas, to improve digestion.

3. Helps in Weight Loss

The fiber contents of sineguelas encourage a sensation of satiety that spaces the time the body returns to hunger. It only contains 76 calories per 100 grams of the fruit.

4. Gives Energy

In general, carbohydrates and iron present in Siniguelas act in a way to energize the body. It also reduces the effects of fatigue on the body. Professional tennis players are known to use this to their advantage.

5. Combats Anemia

Since it’s rich in iron, siniguelas helps fight anemia. It benefits the process of oxygenation of the cells and the strengthening of the whole organism.

6. Helps in Proper Functioning of the Body

Siniguelas is rich in antioxidants that counters the free radicals that degenerate the cells of the body that facilitates the entry of diseases and premature aging.

7. Relieves Spasms

The amount of vitamins, potassium, and calcium found in siniguelas provide nutrients that are essential to diminish spasms, involuntary contractions of the muscles that commonly occur through a deficiency of such mineral salts.

Additional uses and benefits:

* In folk medicine, fruit decoction is used to bathe wounds and heal sores in the mouth.

* Syrup prepared from Siniguelas is used to treat chronic diarrhea.

* Decoction of the fruit used for diarrhea, dysentery and gonorrhea.

* Sap of the bark is used to treat stomatitis in infants and decoction of the bark is used for dysentery and infantile tympanites.

* Bark is used for minor skin ulcers.

* Juice from the fresh leaves has been used as a therapy for thrush.

* Decoction of the leaves and bark is used as a febrifuge.

* Gum-resin of the tree is combined with pineapple or soursop juice for treating jaundice.

* Researchers found that an aqueous extract of the leaves has antibacterial action, and an alcoholic extract is even more effective.

* It can be made into juice for treatment of swollen glands and trauma.

* Leaves can be crushed and used as a poultice for headaches.

* Other plant parts are for dysentery, diarrhea, and sore throat.

* High fever can be reduced using a decoction prepared from either the bark or the leaves.

Sweet reminder: While siniguelas is nutritious, its seed is lethal and should not be consumed. Eat siniguelas in moderation because excessive amounts can lead to indigestion and hyperacidity especially if taken with an empty stomach.

Stay healthy and safe!

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