Nigerian doctor identifies surprising health benefits of Agbalumo

A medical doctor with the Federal Medical Centre, Katsina, Dr Andrew Marbell, yesterday said the African Star Apple, popularly known as Agbalumo in Yoruba, is rich in Vitamin C.

Marbell told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that “as a fruit, of course, it has Vitamin C and has a number of functions in the body.’’

According to him, the fruit has mineral such as calcium, magnesium, potassium etc, which are used by the body for different things.

“Some people say it has antioxidant properties too, which is good as it reduces the risk of some illnesses,’’ the medical doctor said.


Marbell, however, said that he had yet to come across standard studies demonstrating significant benefits with a consistent intake of Agbalumo also known as “ udara ’’ in Igbo.

“But maybe it’s because I’ve not looked for,’’ the medical doctor said.