Bilimbi
Bilimbi
Bilimbi (pronounced: /bɪˈlɪmbi/), also known as Averrhoa bilimbi, is a fruit-bearing tree of the genus Averrhoa, family Oxalidaceae. It is closely related to the carambola but is quite different in its physical appearance, manner of fruiting, and uses.
Etymology
The word "Bilimbi" is derived from the Indonesian name for the tree, "belimbing". The scientific name, "Averrhoa", is named after Averroes, a 12th-century philosopher and physician from Al-Andalus.
Description
The Bilimbi tree is a small tropical tree native to Malaysia and Indonesia, reaching up to 15m in height. The leaves are pinnate and alternate, with small, nearly sessile leaflets. The flowers are purplish-red and are borne in panicles directly from the trunk and older branches. The fruit is ellipsoid, 5–10 cm long, with five (rarely up to seven) longitudinal ribs. The skin is glossy and thin, and the flesh green and extremely acidic.
Uses
The Bilimbi fruit is commonly used in Indian cuisine, particularly in the Kerala region, where it is used in a variety of dishes. The fruit's high acidity makes it a natural meat tenderizer, and it is often used in marinades. In addition to its culinary uses, the Bilimbi has a number of medicinal uses. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including coughs, inflammation, and diabetes.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bilimbi
- Wikipedia's article - Bilimbi
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