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Benefits Of The Screw Pine Fruit
An Alien Fruit In Jamaica

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Benefits Of The Screw Pine FruitBenefits Of The Screw Pine Fruit

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

It is amazing what you can randomly come across on any given day in Jamaica, in Wellesley’s 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.

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The screw pine is a tall, spiny tree that can reach up to 14 meters in height. It’s 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.

Health Benefits of the Screw Pine

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.

Uses Of The Screw Pine

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.

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References & Sources For Benefits Of The Screw Pine Fruit

  1. Ritu.Choudhary. (2022, March 30). Hala Fruit: The fruit that looks like an exploding planet. https://www.finedininglovers.com/article/hala-fruit-fruit-looks-exploding-planet#:~:text=The%20hala%20fruit%20is%20a,belong%20to%20the%20Pandanus%20species
  2. Screw Pine: Types, Care, and Maintenance. (2023, August 10). Housing News. https://housing.com/news/how-to-grow-and-maintain-screw-pine/#:~:text=Anti%2Dviral%2C%20anti%2Dinflammatory,the%20treatment%20of%20damaged%20nerves
  3. Ray, R. (2023, February 21). Hala, The Fruit Of Health! Hail Its Benefits. Slurrp. https://www.slurrp.com/article/hala-the-fruit-of-health-hail-its-benefits-1676974715929

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