Health Benefits Of Rambutan

Rambutan is a close relative of the two tropical plants, logan and Lychee, and is a member of the family Sapindaceae. The tree of Rambutan is commonly known for the rambutan fruit. The Rambutan fruit is covered with leathery, thin rind; which are covered by several spiky structures resembling hair; and this gives the name “Rambutan,” which in Malay means ‘Hair”. The Rambutan fruit and its seed are very beneficial and contain multiple essential nutrients that have potential health benefits.

In 100 grams of the fruit of Rambutan, there exist 82 Kcal. Rambutan also contains 0.35 mg of iron, 0.34 mg of manganese, 8 micrograms of folate, 0.08 mg of zinc, 0.22 mg Riboflavin, 0.01mg of thiamine, and 0.02 mg of Vitamin B6.

There is a presence of approximately 20.87 g of carbohydrates, 0.9 g of dietary fiber, 0.65 g of protein, 0.21 g of fat, 22 mg of calcium, 9 mg of phosphorus, 7 mg of magnesium, 42 mg of potassium, 11 mg of sodium, 1.35 mg of Niacin and 4.9mg of Vitamin C in 100 grams of Rambutan.

Rambutan being a great source of so many essential nutrients and vitamins; is known to have some excellent health benefits. Let’s keep reading to know the various health benefits of Rambutan.

One of the most known health benefits of Rambutan is its benefit for treating diabetes. According to a Chinese study, the Rambutan peels posses some anti-diabetic properties in them and thus can be used in the treatment of diabetes. In the study, diabetic mice when induced with the Rambutan peels’ phenolic extracts; showed a reduction in the levels of fasting blood glucose.

Rambutan can also be used in preventing unwanted weight gain. Though there is still no specific research that suggests how it can prevent excess of weight gain; however, in general, fruits are known to help in weight loss or prevent gaining weight as they contain low energy density. Moreover, fruits also contain fiber that can help you in weight loss as that helps you remain full for a long time.

Preventing cancer is another amazing health benefit of Rambutan. Rambutan is one of those fruits, which contain a high content of antioxidant, and thus can be beneficial in preventing cancer. The antioxidants present in Rambutan can fight inflammation and prevent the cells in your body from getting affected. Rambutan also contains Vitamin C, which also assists in preventing cancer. The vitamin C neutralizes the dangerous free radicals and protects against various forms of cancer. As per a study, the peels of Rambutan can alter and also disturb the cancer cells’ growth and even can be used in treating liver cancer. One more report suggest that eating 5 Rambutan fruit daily can significantly cut your risk of getting cancer.

Rambutan is also known to benefit your health by enhancing energy levels of the body. Rambutan contains carbohydrates as well as protein; both of which are known to offer an energy boost when needed. In addition, the presence of natural sugars in Rambutan also helps in enhancing energy levels.

This yet another health benefit of Rambutan. It is known to improve digestive health. This is because of the fiber content present in Rambutan that helps in proper digestion. Rambutan also prevents several digestive problems, such as constipation⁽¹²⁾. Moreover, the antibacterial properties, which are present in Rambutan may help in killing the intestinal parasites and thus help in the treatment of diarrhea. However, there is a limited research in this regard.

Rambutan has antiseptic and antibacterial properties and is thus used since the ancient times^{(13, 14, 15)}. There are even some studies that claim that the antiseptic properties of Rambutan protect our body against a lot of infections. Rambutan accelerates the healing of wounds and even prevents the formation of pus.

Giving you a healthy heart is another amazing health benefit of Rambutan. This is because of the presence of fiber in Rambutan. The fiber present in Rambutan can significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and also alleviate hypertension. Rambutan might also reduce the levels of cholesterol and help in preventing any damage to the heart^(11).

It is also known that Rambutan helps improve libido. Consuming the leaves of Rambutan can also help in improving and stimulating libido. The Rambutan leaves are natural aphrodisiacs and can have a positive impact on increasing the sexual libido. You can get its best benefits by boiling Rambutan leaves in water and drinking it.

This is another health benefit of Rambutan that is it increases the sperm quality. The huge amount of vitamin C present in Rambutan helps in improving and maintaining sperm quality. There have been studies, which revealed the impact of vitamin C on healthy development of sperms. So, incorporating Rambutan in diet helps improve fertility in men.

Pregnancy is probably the best phase in a woman’s life. In this stage, every woman looks for the best food, best tips to maintain a healthy pregnancy. Rambutan is also known to be beneficial for pregnant women. Rambutan actually relieves dizziness and morning sickness in pregnant ladies. This is because of the rich iron content found in the fruit. Rambutan also helps in maintaining a healthy hemoglobin level during pregnancy⁽¹¹⁾. Rambutan also aids in reducing skin itchiness, which is commonly experienced by pregnant women. Because of the vitamin E found in Rambutan, the skin is left well nourished and itch-free.

NOTE: Always be sure that the consumption of Rambutan is in a controlled amount and it is also strictly advised to consult your doctor for getting more clarity about it.

Improvement in the kidney function is an important health benefit of Rambutan. Rambutan benefits in proper functioning of the kidney by removing the kidney waste. The presence of phosphorus in Rambutan helps in filtering out the body waste. This essential mineral also helps in proper functioning of your kidneys.

The health benefits of Rambutan also include the benefit towards your bone health. The phosphorus content found in Rambutan plays an important role towards bone health. Rambutan is loaded with phosphorus, which helps in bone formation and also in maintenance. Moreover, the vitamin C present in Rambutan also contributes to your bone health.

One of the finest health benefits of Rambutan is that it boosts your immune health. Because of the rich Vitamin C content in Rambutan and the vital antioxidants that are relevant to the immunity of your body, Rambutan works great for your immune system health⁽¹⁷⁾. Rambutan assists in fighting off the harmful free radicals in the body and enhances your immunity.

Rambutan comprises of antibacterial properties in it and this helps in treating dandruff and some other scalp problems, such as itching. Vitamin C content found in Rambutan is helpful in nourishing your hair and scalp.

Hair loss can be treated by Rambutan because of the presence of copper in it. Apart from this, copper also intensifies the color of your hair and even prevents premature hair graying⁽¹⁸⁾.

Rambutan also strengthens the hair roots because of the protein content found in this fruit. Vitamin C present in Rambutan can also offer your hair some added shine.
You simply need to apply the juice of Rambutan to your hair and scalp and allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes and then shampoo your hair as usual.

NOTE: Because of limited research available in this matter, it is always recommended to consult your doctor before using Rambutan for your scalp or hair problem.

The Rambutan seeds are known to improve the appearance of your skin and enhance skin health. You can use the paste of the Rambutan seeds to soften as well as to smoothen the skin and also to improve skin texture. Rambutan offers a clearer complexion to the skin.

Moreover, Rambutan even helps in hydrating the skin. Rambutan contains manganese, along with vitamin C and helps in the production of collagen and even act as an antioxidant that assist in damaging the free radicals⁽¹⁹⁾. Thus, your skin remains healthy and also young for a longer period of time.

So, by now we are aware of some of the most essential health benefits of Rambutan. If you are conscious of getting into a fit and healthy life, then do add Rambutan to your daily diet. However, make sure that if you are pregnant and want to take this fruit then do it only after consulting with your doctor.

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