World of Peruvian Herbs

some medicinal plants of the Andes and the Amazon

Traditional use:

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LUCUMA 
 

LATIN NAME: Pouteria lucuma

USED PARTS OF THE PLANT:
fruits

CURATIVE PROPERTIES: 

Immunomodulation, nutritious, good for diabetics, antioxidant, anti-inflammation, metabolic, prevent cardiovascular diseases, and brain illnesses, Dermato-regenerating, gluten-free

USE IN TRADITIONAL PERUVIAN MEDICINE:
  • Skin issues
  • Anemia
  • Energy 
  • Nervous system
  • Fatigue 
  • Supplementation of vitamins and minerals

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANT AND ITS PRESENCE

Lucuma is an ancient Peruvian fruit present in myths and legends of that country. According to historians, Lucuma had been known even before the era of the Incas. It has been proved in the form of the ceramic dishes from the Mochica era, and the materials which show that fruit was as used as a part of diet.
The Lucuma tree is 15meters high and grows anywhere between 1000 and 2400 meters above the sea level. The fruit of Lucuma has an oval shape similar to avocado and is 8-10cm long. The skin is dark green. As it is getting ripe the color changes into brown/green. The ripe fruit has fibrous, yellow/orange flesh. Its exceptional flavor is very sweet. Inside you can find 2-5 large seeds. 
Because of the demand for this special fruit in Peru and also world market, its cultivation and production is still growing. In Peru, in some Andean parts you can still find ecotypes of Lucuma growing in the wild.


MORE INFORMATION

Lucuma is a famous Peruvian fruit also known as “Gold of the Incas”. Recently, it has become a favorite delicacy, and an excellent energy source. It boosts the mood, and is used as a natural ingredient in many dishes.
In Peru Lucuma is extremely popular. Its flesh is eaten most often fresh. When the fresh fruits are not available, people use the pre-prepared meal, which has a distinctive smell, and sweet taste (with a nut and vanilla twist). It contains many nutritious substances, among others: beta-carotene, iron, zinc, vitamin B3, calcium, and protein. It is a source of slowly absorbed carbohydrates. The fruits of Lucuma are naturally sweet, but they have low glycemic index, that is why they are the right choice for people who want to limit the use of sugar, nut at the same time do not want to resign from sweet taste.
Lucuma has a high content of niacin (vitamin B3), which supports the metabolism of protein, which have an influence on energy production. It is recommended for treating depression, and supporting the proper functioning of the nervous system, it helps to fight with the symptoms of tiredness.
The recent research has confirmed that vitamin B3 helps to lower the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in blood, and because of that it is important in treating many diseases, especially obesity and cardiovascular diseases. The relatively high content of iron helps to increase the concentration of hemoglobin in blood, which is important for fighting anemia (thanks to sweet flavor it is liked by children).
Carotene can lower the risk of cardiac infarction, and boosts the efficiency of the immune system. It has a beneficial influence on skin. It helps with treating the skin diseases and skin irritation.


USE AND MOST COMMON DOSAGE

How can it be used in the kitchen?
It can be used as an ingredient of fruit cocktail. It can be added to baked goods, cakes, puddings, jellies, and other desserts.
It can be used with porridge, muesli, as well as yoghurt, cottage cheese or homemade ice cream.
It is a perfect diet supplement, not only for those who have a healthy lifestyle, but also for those on a diet or diabetics. Because of the high content of non-dissolving fiber, in order to mix it well one can use a food mixer or shaker.
 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The Lucuma powder is gluten free.
It is proper for sportspeople, pregnant women, and small children. It will also be appreciated by vegetarians, vegans, and diabetics.