Subscribe for all my updates and don't miss a thing! Sign me up!
Sharing Is Caring! Share this awesome content with your friends now.
By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer
It is amazing what you can randomly come across on any given day in Jamaica, in Wellesleyโs case it was a mysterious fruit. So rare and uncommon that he has aptly referred to it as an alien fruit. I am sharing with you that interesting video below, so please take a watch. But, before I do, let me tell you all about this mysterious fruit, the Screw Pine.
New! Take a piece of Jamaica with you๐!
Savour the memories! Now you can get your authentic Jamaican souvenir items, as well as traditional Jamaican herbs, spices and housewares on our popular e-store. Click Here to learn more.
And, if you ever need a trustworthy and knowledgeable local guide, consider booking a private tour with us!
The screw pine is a tall, spiny tree that can reach up to 14 meters in height. Itโs easily recognizable by its spiralling leaves, aerial roots, and large, pineapple-like fruit. These fruits are clusters of smaller segments known as phalanges, keys, or cones that change from green to vibrant shades of yellow, orange, or red as they ripen. Each phalange contains a sweet, edible pulp that can be consumed fresh, boiled, or squeezed into juice.
The screw pine is also known as Pandanus tectorius or hala tree. It is native to Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Australia, so it was quite a surprise when we found this right here in Jamaica.
Like most, this unique and versatile tree (and fruit) boasts a wide range of uses, health benefits, and cultural significance.
1. Rich in Antioxidants: The fruit of the screw pine is loaded with antioxidants! Which means it can help to fight free radicals in the body. Antioxidants play a key role in preventing cell damage, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer, and slowing down the ageing process.
2. Boosts Immune System: The fruit is also very high in vitamin C. So having a significant amount of the fruit will help to boost the immune system and aid in defending the body against colds, infections, and other illnesses.
3. Supports Digestive Health: It also has a high fibre content which will aid in digestion, promote healthy bowel movements, and can help to alleviate constipation. This is why one of the traditional uses of the plant also includes treating stomach aches and indigestion.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Extracts from the leaves and roots of the screw pine have anti-inflammatory properties which makes them useful in traditional remedies for conditions like arthritis, muscle pain, and skin inflammation.
5. Promotes Wound Healing: Screw pine leaves have been used to make poultices and wound dressings due to their antibacterial and wound-healing properties. It can help to speed up the recovery of cuts, burns, and other minor injuries.
6. Heart Health: The fruit is known to support cardiovascular health, helping to lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels, which are key factors in heart disease prevention.
7. Stress Relief and Relaxation: Screw pine leaves are often used in aromatherapy for their calming effects. The soothing aroma helps reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve overall mental well-being.
Culinary: The sweet pulp of the screwpine is a traditional food source in the Pacific Islands and is often eaten fresh or processed into pastes and juices. The leaves are commonly used to infuse dishes with a fragrant, nutty aroma.
Spiritual: In various cultures, the leaves and fruit are used in religious ceremonies and rituals, often symbolizing resilience, purity, and the connection between the earthly and the divine.
Aesthetic and Landscaping Appeal: The screw pine is not just functional but also visually stunning, making it a popular choice for landscaping in tropical and subtropical regions. Its dramatic, spiralling leaves and striking aerial roots make it a standout addition to gardens, adding a touch of the exotic while providing shade and shelter.
Mystical and Folklore Connections: In folklore, the screw pine is often featured in tales of survival and prosperity, highlighting its importance in the daily lives of people. Some cultures believe that the plant has protective qualities that will ward off evil spirits when used in home decor or rituals.
The screw pine is one very fascinating fruit. Have you ever tried it before, if not are you willing to?
Check out the video below and if you are familiar with this alien fruit, join the others and leave a comment, telling us what you know.
Sharing IS Caring! Please help me get the message out by sharing this article with your friends on social media (links below). Thnx ;-)
If you found this page useful, please consider subscribing to my weekly newsletter, to get even more.
It tells you each week about the new information that I have added, including new developments and great stories from lovers of Jamaica!
Return to Fruits In Jamaica from Benefits Of The Screw Pine Fruit
Return to My Island Jamaica Homepage from Benefits Of The Screw Pine Fruit
You asked, I've answered! You no longer need to save for months or years, to enjoy paradise! I spilled the beans! sharing my top tips on finding cozy accommodations and secret gems, only the way a native could! Click Here to pick it up on my e-store and start saving now! |
My channel reaches over 140,000 subscribers worldwide and has leveraged over 11 million views, sharing, what I call 'The Real Jamaica'. Subscribe today and join our family of viewers. |
New! Experience The REAL Jamaica!
Book Your Private Tour here and experience Jamaica the way we (locals) do!
Click Here to try our dependable and effective Site Search tool. It works!
Or, simply click here and here, to browse my library of over 500 questions and answers! Chances are someone already asked (and got an answer to) your question.
New! Comments
Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.