Carambola / Star Fruit

English Name: Carambola / Star Fruit

Common Hindi Name: Kamarak

· Carambola fruits are produced by ornamental evergreen tree (Averrhoa carambola), which is native to southeast Asia.

· Fruits are ovate to ellipsoid in shape. They are 6 to 13 cm long and have 5 (sometimes 4 or 6) longitudinal ribs.

· The fruit has a golden-yellow to green color. When cut across it shows a 5-pointed star shape, which is why it is also called "star fruit".

· The crunchy fruits have a slightly tart, acidic, sweet taste.

· The fruit starts out with a green color. As it ripens the color turns to yellow. The fruit cab be eaten in both the green and yellow stages.

· Carambola is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C and low in sugar, sodium and acid. It is also a potent source of both primary and secondary polyphenolic antioxidants.

· Like the grapefruit, carambola contains oxalic acid, which can be harmful to individuals suffering from kidney failure, kidney stones, or under kidney dialysis treatment. Consumption by those with kidney failure can produce hiccups, vomiting, nausea, and mental confusion. Fatal outcomes have been documented in some patients.