Yellow Dragonfruit/Selenicereus megalanthus, synonym Hylocereus megalanthus, is a cactus species in the genus Selenicereus that is native to northern South America, where it is known, along with its fruit, by the name of pitahaya. The species is grown commercially for its yellow fruit but is also an impressive ornamental climbing vine with perhaps the largest flowers of all cacti.
The yellow fruit has thorns, unlike the red dragon fruits (e.g. S. undatus and S. monacanthus), and is commonly known as “yellow dragon fruit”, “yellow pitahaya” or “yellow pitaya”.
| Yellow Dragonfruit Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Name: | Yellow Dragonfruit |
| Scientific Name: | Hylocereus megalanthus |
| Origin | Native to Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Venezuela |
| Colors | Yellow |
| Shapes | Ovoid, tuberculate |
| Flesh colors | White |
| Taste | Sweet |
Yellow Dragonfruit is endemic to Colombia, Bolivia, Peru, Venezuela, and Ecuador. In Columbia, it is commercially cultivated to a limited extent. Fruits are exported to Canada and Europe. Other different cactus fruit crops which are sold as yellow pitaya are Acanthocereus pitahaya, Acanthocereus Colombians, Selenicereus megalanthus, and Hylocereus triangularis. Unlike red dragon fruits, yellow dragonfruit has thorns.
Stem
Stems are procumbent, scandent or pendent. It is 1.5 cm thick and produces aerial roots. Margins are undulating, white areoles, and yellowish. Several hairs are seen on young growth.
Flower
Flowers are funnel-shaped, nocturnal and 32-38 cm long. Pericarpial is ovoid or slightly globose. Tubercles are flattened and large. Inner tepals are 10 cm long and 3.5 cm wide, broader and white. Stamens are numerous which are inserted in two zones and are yellow.
Fruit
Fruits are ovoid, spiny, tuberculate with yellow skin. The pulp is white with black seeds in it. The pulp has a pleasant and mildly sweet flavor.
Health Benefits of Yellow Dragonfruit
- Detoxifies body
The fruit has a high content of dietary fiber which is beneficial for the digestive system as it eliminates the toxins accumulated in the body. It also lightens the workload of organs, liver and maintains optimal health. It is beneficial for pregnant women and individuals with constipation issues.
- Formation of RBCs
It has impressive amounts of iron which is essential for the production of red blood cells and is helpful for those with anemia. Pregnant women must add dragonfruit to the diet because the high volume of oxygen and nutrients are carried by red blood cells required to supply to the fetus in the womb.
- Cardiovascular health
Dragonfruit is a great source of mono-unsaturated fats as it lowers the chances of heart problems and high blood pressure by lowering bad cholesterol levels and replenishing good levels.
- Strengthen immunity
It is a great source of antioxidants that helps to minimize cell damage being effective at lowering the chances of cancer and other health problems. It prevents free radical damage which could result in premature aging and age-related diseases. It contains three times more Vitamin C than carrots. It assists the ability to eliminate heavy metals and other toxins promote healing of body cells and improve the body’s ability to cope with stress.
- Lowers inflammation
Seeds have Omega-3 fats which combat against fungal and bacterial infections and autoimmune diseases in organ systems. The anti-bacterial and fungal properties upgrade the white blood cell count in the body that defends against toxins. It stimulates the regeneration of cells which speeds up the healing of wounds and bruises.
- Enhance beauty
The availability of antioxidants, vitamins, monounsaturated fats, enzymes, minerals, and fiber is crucial to maintaining overall health and skin health.
Culinary uses
- The fruit is consumed raw.
- It is used to flavor pastries and drinks.
- Fruits are converted into wine or juice.
- Flowers are consumed or steeped as tea.
- The flesh is used to make jellies, jams, and marmalades.
- Add it to fruit salads.
Tips
Eat on an empty stomach in the morning followed by the intake of lots of water. It upgrades digestion and bowel circulation for detox.
Side effects
- Too much intake of dragon fruit is not healthy. The high content of fructose is harmful to health.
- When consumed in excess, it causes slight reddish urine and feces.
- Its skin is poisonous.
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