Medically reviewed by Dr. Ramesh Gaddam, M.D. — Written by Sumalatha, D.N.H.E
The elephant apple, scientifically known as “Dillenia indica,” is a tropical fruit-bearing tree native to South and Southeast Asia. It is called “elephant apple” because of its large, woody fruit, which is roughly the size and shape of a small green apple, and it is a favorite food of elephants in the wild.
The fruit of the elephant apple is typically round and can vary in size, with some reaching the size of a small melon.
It has a thick, greenish-yellow or greenish-brown skin and a somewhat tart or sour taste when ripe.
The flesh is juicy and often used to make chutneys, pickles, or added to curries in various regional cuisines.
Elephant Apple Nutrition
Nutritional composition of elephant apples per 100 grams:
| trient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 56 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 14.3 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 grams |
| Sugars | 4.2 grams |
| Fat | 0.4 grams |
| Protein | 1.6 grams |
| Vitamin C | 19.3 mg (32% DV) |
| Vitamin A | 58 IU (1% DV) |
| Potassium | 325 mg (9% DV) |
Elephant Apple Benefits
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals:
Elephant apples are a good source of essential nutrients like vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health, and various minerals such as potassium.
Antioxidant Properties:
They contain antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants are associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
Digestive Health:
In traditional medicine, various parts of the elephant apple tree, including the fruit, have been used to aid digestion and alleviate digestive issues.
Anti-inflammatory Effects:
Some traditional systems of medicine use elephant apple extracts for their potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Oral Health:
The bark of the elephant apple tree is sometimes used in traditional remedies for oral health issues like gum inflammation and toothaches.
Medicinal Benefits:
In traditional medicine, different parts of the elephant apple tree, such as the leaves, roots, and bark, have been used to treat a range of health conditions, including fever, diarrhea, and skin diseases.
However, it’s important to note that the efficacy and safety of these uses have not been widely studied through scientific research.
Elephant Apple Uses
Culinary Uses:
Elephant apples are used in South Asian and Southeast Asian cuisines to prepare various dishes. They are valued for their tangy and sour flavor.
In Assam, India, the fruit is used to make a traditional chutney called “ou tenga,” which combines the elephant apple’s pulp with mustard seeds and spices.
The fruit can be used to make jams, jellies, or added to curries to provide a sour taste.
Medicinal Uses:
In traditional medicine, different parts of the elephant apple tree, including the leaves, roots, and bark, have been used for their potential medicinal properties.
Elephant apples have been used to treat various ailments, such as fever, diarrhea, dysentery, and skin diseases. However, the efficacy of these uses has not been widely studied through scientific research, and caution should be exercised when using them for medicinal purposes.
Wildlife Attraction:
The large fruit of elephant apples is a favorite food source for elephants, as well as other wildlife. The fruit can attract and sustain various animals and birds in forested areas where these trees grow.
Ornamental and Shade Tree:
The elephant apple tree is sometimes planted for its ornamental value and as a shade tree in gardens and parks.
Timber and Wood Uses:
The wood of the elephant apple tree can be used for various purposes, such as making furniture and construction materials.
Traditional Rituals:
In some cultures, the elephant apple tree holds cultural and religious significance and is used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Elephant Apple Side Effects
While elephant apples (Dillenia indica) have been traditionally used for various purposes, including medicinal and culinary applications, there is limited scientific research available on their potential side effects. However, as with many natural products, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of potential risks. Here are some considerations:
Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to elephant apples or certain compounds found in them. Allergic reactions can vary in severity and may include symptoms like itching, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect an allergy, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
Digestive Issues: In some cases, consuming large quantities of elephant apples or their products, such as chutneys or curries, can lead to digestive discomfort, including diarrhea or stomach upset. This can be due to their tart or sour taste.
Over consumption: Excessive consumption of any food or fruit can lead to imbalances or digestive disturbances. Moderation is important when including elephant apples in your diet.
Interactions with Medications: If you are taking medications or have underlying health conditions, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before adding elephant apples or related products to your diet. There may be potential interactions or contraindications with specific medications.
Lack of Scientific Data: As mentioned earlier, the medicinal uses of elephant apples are based on traditional knowledge and have not been extensively studied through modern scientific research. Therefore, the safety and efficacy of using elephant apples for medicinal purposes are not well-established.
Contaminants: As with any natural product, the presence of contaminants, pesticides, or pollutants should be considered, especially if the fruits are collected from the wild or from areas with environmental concerns.
If you plan to use elephant apples for culinary or medicinal purposes, it’s a good idea to use them in moderation and be mindful of any adverse reactions. If you experience any unexpected or severe side effects, it’s important to seek medical attention. Consulting with a healthcare professional or herbalist is advisable, especially if you have specific health concerns or are considering using elephant apples for their potential medicinal properties.
Elephant apple during pregnancy
Consuming elephant apples (Dillenia indica) during pregnancy is generally considered safe when used in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Elephant apples, like many other fruits, provide essential nutrients and can be a source of vitamins and minerals. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Moderation: As with any food during pregnancy, it’s essential to consume elephant apples in moderation. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables is recommended to ensure a well-rounded diet.
Nutrient Benefits: Elephant apples can provide valuable nutrients, including vitamin C, which is important for the immune system and overall health. These nutrients can be beneficial during pregnancy.
Digestive Comfort: Some pregnant individuals may experience digestive discomfort during pregnancy, such as heartburn or acid reflux. The tartness of elephant apples may exacerbate these symptoms in some cases. If you experience such discomfort, it’s best to consume these fruits in smaller quantities or avoid them if they trigger digestive issues.
Food Safety: Ensure that the elephant apples you consume are clean and free from contaminants. If you are collecting them from the wild, be cautious about the environment in which they are harvested to avoid potential exposure to pesticides or pollutants.
Consult with a Healthcare Professional: It’s always a good idea to discuss your diet with your healthcare provider during pregnancy. They can provide personalized advice based on your health, dietary preferences, and any specific concerns you may have.
Avoid Unripe or Spoiled Fruit: Make sure the elephant apples you consume are ripe and in good condition. Unripe fruit can be sour and might not be as easily digestible.
In summary, elephant apples can be a part of a healthy diet during pregnancy, but it’s important to exercise moderation and pay attention to how your body responds to them. As with any dietary changes during pregnancy, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that your diet is meeting your nutritional needs and is safe for you and your developing baby.
How to eat elephant apple
Elephant apples (Dillenia indica) can be eaten in various ways, depending on your taste preferences and cultural culinary traditions. Here are some common methods of consuming elephant apples:
Fresh: You can eat elephant apples fresh. When ripe, the fruit has a tart or sour taste, similar to tamarind. Simply wash the fruit, peel away the skin (if you prefer), and eat the flesh. Some people enjoy the sour taste as is, while others might sprinkle a little salt or sugar on the fruit to enhance the flavor.
Chutney: Elephant apples are commonly used to make chutney. To prepare elephant apple chutney, remove the skin, seeds, and any tough fibers from the fruit. Then, chop the flesh into small pieces and mix it with ingredients like mustard seeds, red or green chilies, salt, and spices. The resulting chutney is a tangy and flavorful condiment that pairs well with rice, bread, or as a side dish.
Jam or Jelly: The fruit can be used to make jams and jellies. To prepare elephant apple jam or jelly, you’ll need to cook the fruit with sugar and possibly pectin (a natural gelling agent) to achieve the desired consistency. The resulting product can be spread on toast or used as a topping.
Curries and Pickles: In some regional cuisines, elephant apples are added to curries or used to make pickles. The sourness of the fruit can add a unique flavor to these dishes.
Cooked Dishes: Some recipes call for elephant apples in cooked dishes like stews or soups, where the tartness can balance other flavors.
Juice: You can extract the juice from elephant apples and use it as a base for beverages. Some people may mix it with water, sugar, and spices to make a refreshing drink.
Candied or Preserved: In some regions, elephant apples are candied or preserved in sugar to create a sweet and sour treat.
Elephant Apple Benefits for Skin
Rich in Vitamin C: Elephant apples contain vitamin C, which is known for its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect the skin from free radical damage, which can lead to premature aging. Vitamin C is also essential for collagen production, a protein that keeps the skin firm and youthful.
Hydration: The water content in elephant apples can help keep your skin hydrated. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining healthy and radiant skin.
Digestive Health: Good digestion is often linked to healthier skin. If elephant apples help improve your digestion or alleviate digestive issues, it can indirectly contribute to clearer and healthier skin.
Nutrient Intake: A well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, like elephant apples, can provide essential nutrients and vitamins that support overall health, including the health of your skin.
Elephant Apple Benefits for Hair
Nutrient Intake: Elephant apples provide essential vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health, including the health of your hair. These include vitamin C, which supports the production of collagen, a protein that helps keep hair strong and healthy.
Antioxidant Protection: The antioxidants in elephant apples, such as vitamin C, can help protect your hair follicles and the scalp from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. This can potentially prevent damage to hair follicles and promote overall hair health.
Digestive Health: Elephant apples are known to aid digestion in some traditional systems of medicine. Good digestion can indirectly support the absorption of nutrients that are essential for hair health, such as protein and iron.
Hydration: The water content in elephant apples can help keep you hydrated, and proper hydration is important for overall health, including hair health.
Overall Well-Being: Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods can contribute to your overall well-being. When your body is healthy and well-nourished, it’s more likely to support the growth and strength of your hair.
Elephant Apple vs Wood Apple
Elephant apple and wood apple are two different fruits, each with its own distinct characteristics and uses. Here’s a comparison of the two:
Elephant Apple (Dillenia indica):
Scientific Name: Elephant apple is scientifically known as Dillenia indica.
Fruit Description: The fruit of the elephant apple is round and can vary in size. It has a thick, greenish-yellow or greenish-brown skin and a somewhat tart or sour taste when ripe. The flesh is juicy and often used to make chutneys, pickles, or added to curries in various regional cuisines. It is called “elephant apple” because of its large, woody fruit, which is roughly the size and shape of a small green apple.
Tree Description: The elephant apple tree is a large tropical tree native to South and Southeast Asia. It can grow to be quite tall and has simple, glossy, dark green leaves.
Uses: Elephant apples are used in culinary preparations, as well as traditional medicinal remedies for their potential health benefits. The fruit is a source of vitamin C and is valued for its sour taste.
Wood Apple (Aegle marmelos):
Scientific Name: Wood apple is scientifically known as Aegle marmelos.
Fruit Description: The fruit of the wood apple, also known as “bael” or “bilva” in some regions, is round and hard with a woody shell. The outer shell is inedible, and inside, there is a sweet and aromatic pulp with a grainy texture. The pulp is consumed fresh, or it is used to make a traditional drink called “bel sherbet” or “wood apple squash.” The pulp can also be used in jams and preserves.
Tree Description: The wood apple tree is a medium-sized, slow-growing tree native to India. It has compound leaves and is considered sacred in some cultures.
Uses: Wood apples are primarily valued for their sweet and aromatic pulp, which is rich in fiber and various nutrients. The fruit is often consumed for its potential digestive benefits and is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for various purposes, including digestive disorders.
In summary, elephant apples and wood apples are different fruits with distinct flavors, appearances, and uses.
Elephant apples are known for their tartness and are used in cooking, while wood apples have a sweet pulp that is often consumed fresh or used to prepare traditional beverages and snacks.
Both fruits have cultural and culinary significance in their respective regions.
Elephant Apple Benefits for Diabetes
Elephant apples (Dillenia indica) are traditionally used in some cultures for their potential to aid digestion and manage blood sugar levels, which may have implications for individuals with diabetes.
However, it’s important to note that the scientific evidence supporting their direct benefits for diabetes management is limited.
Here are some ways in which elephant apples may be beneficial for diabetes:
Digestive Aid:Elephant apples are known to have digestive properties, and a healthy digestive system can contribute to better blood sugar control. Improved digestion can help the body metabolize carbohydrates and manage blood glucose levels more effectively.
Potential Antidiabetic Compounds: Some studies suggest that compounds found in certain parts of the elephant apple tree may have antidiabetic properties. These compounds may help regulate blood sugar levels.
High Fiber Content: Elephant apples are a good source of dietary fiber, which can slow the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream and help manage blood sugar levels.
Despite these potential benefits, it’s crucial to approach the consumption of elephant apples or any natural remedy with caution if you have diabetes.
The effects of dietary changes can vary from person to person, and individual responses to specific foods or remedies may differ.
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have diabetes.
They can provide personalized advice and help you create a diabetes management plan that suits your specific needs and health goals.
Additionally, it’s important to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and make informed decisions based on your individual health status and dietary preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which vitamin is present in elephant apple?
Elephant apples (Dillenia indica) contain several vitamins and nutrients, including vitamin C, which is one of the key vitamins present in these fruits.
Is elephant apple good for diabetes?
Regarding its impact on diabetes, elephant apples have been traditionally used in some cultures for their potential to aid digestion and manage blood sugar levels.
However, more scientific research is needed to establish their effectiveness in managing diabetes.
Can we eat elephant apple raw?
You can eat elephant apples raw, but their tartness may not be to everyone’s liking.
Some people enjoy the tangy taste of raw elephant apples, while others prefer to use them in culinary preparations like chutneys, pickles, or cooked dishes.
Is elephant apple good for stomach?
Elephant apples have been used in traditional medicine to aid digestion, and their potential to soothe stomach-related issues is one of their traditional uses.
However, the effectiveness and safety of these uses have not been widely studied through modern scientific research, so caution is advisable.
Which apple is good for acidity?
For acidity or heartburn, it’s typically advised to consume fruits that are less acidic.
While elephant apples are not highly acidic, their tartness may not be the best choice if you have acid reflux or acidity issues.
Fruits like bananas, melons, and papayas are often recommended for those with acidity.
Is elephant apple good for hair?
There is no direct scientific evidence to suggest that elephant apples have specific benefits for hair health.
Their nutritional content, including vitamin C, can contribute to overall well-being, which can indirectly support the health of your hair.
However, if you are looking to improve the condition of your hair, it’s advisable to focus on a well-balanced diet, proper hydration, and hair care practices rather than relying solely on a single fruit for hair benefits.
Is elephant apple a false fruit?
Elephant apple (Dillenia indica) is not a false fruit; it is a true fruit.
The term “false fruit” typically refers to fruits that develop from the receptacle of a flower, like a fig or a strawberry, rather than the ovary.
Elephant apple, however, develops from the ovary of a flower, making it a true fruit.
Why is it called elephant apple?
Elephant apples are called so because of their large, woody fruit, which is roughly the size and shape of a small green apple.
The name “elephant apple” is attributed to their popularity as a food source for wild elephants.
Is elephant apple and Wood Apple same?
Elephant apple (Dillenia indica) and wood apple (Aegle marmelos) are not the same.
They are two different fruit-bearing trees with distinct characteristics and flavors.
Elephant apples are sour and tart when ripe, while wood apples have a sweet and aromatic pulp with a grainy texture.
Are elephant apples sweet?
Elephant apples are not typically sweet; they have a tart or sour taste when ripe.
What color is elephant apple?
The color of elephant apples can vary but is generally greenish-yellow or greenish-brown when ripe.
What is the Hindi name of elephant apple fruit?
In Hindi, elephant apple is commonly known as “Chalta” or “Chalta Phal.”
What is the common name for the elephant apple tree?
The common name for the tree that produces elephant apples is, unsurprisingly, the “Elephant Apple Tree.”
What is the family of elephant apple?
The family of elephant apple, scientifically known as Dillenia indica, is Dilleniaceae.
Is elephant apple good for pregnancy?
As with most foods during pregnancy, consuming elephant apples in moderation as part of a balanced diet is generally considered safe.
However, it’s essential to maintain a varied and nutritious diet and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice during pregnancy.
Is elephant apple good for diarrhea?
In traditional medicine, different parts of the elephant apple tree, including the fruit, have been used to treat various ailments, including digestive issues like diarrhea.
However, the safety and efficacy of these uses have not been widely studied through modern scientific research.
If you’re considering using elephant apples for medicinal purposes, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.
Elephant Apple in Indian Languages
Hindi: Chalta or Chalta Phal
Bengali: Chalta
Tamil: Kannuga
Telugu: Ubbalam or Karambalam
Malayalam: Kudampuli or Vazhappuli
Kannada: Kaire
Assamese: Ol’ Tokera
Oriya: Sarai Tokera
Marathi: Chala
Gujarati: Karambel
Punjabi: Bael (in some regions, the term “bael” is also used for wood apple)
Kashmiri: Khor
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ramesh Gaddam, M.D.
General Physician, Diabetologist, and Critical Care Specialist.
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