Chikoo (scientifically named Manilkara Zapota), also known as ‘sapota’ or ‘sapodilla’, is very high in dietary fibres fiber (5.6 g/100g), which makes it a wonderful laxative. It aids in the movement of bowel through the gastrointestinal tract, thereby facilitating digestion, reducing abdominal gas, and curing constipation. Chikoo is loaded with antioxidant vitamin C, which adds to its detoxifying properties and helps protect the colon wall from dangerous cancer causing toxins. Sapodilla contains a large amount of Vitamin A, which helps in the formation of visual sensory cells and improves eyesight and offers protection against lung and oral cavity cancers. Tannins contain anti bacterial and anti parasitic properties as well, hence they can stop bleeding & infection at wounds, and act as remedy for diarrhea, dysentery, and hemorrhoids.
Consumption of sapodilla in a healthy diet contributes substantially to reduce the effects of ageing, both visibly, and internally. Vitamin A and other antioxidants scavenge harmful free radicals. High iron content helps to stop the depletion of hemoglobin content of blood. Sapodilla also helps to keep the skin healthy, bright, and wrinkle free. The biggest qualities of Sapodilla are its haemostatic qualities. This fruit is extremely valuable in stopping the loss of blood. It helps in decreasing blood loss in piles, injuries and in many other medical terminologies. The consumption of Chikoo fruit benefits in reducing the level of infections. It helps in lessening viral diseases in addition to bacterial infections within the body. It also decreases inflammation caused by swelling and helps to ease pain.
Chikoo or Sapodilla is an excellent source of minerals such as potassium, copper and iron Sapodilla helps in lowering the symptoms of diabetes. The fruit extract of sapodilla contains 24 antioxidant compounds. Which include polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenes and glycosides and several other compounds that are involved in controlling glucose and lipid levels in the body.