Natal Plum is a common coastal bush as it can tolerate the salty winds well.Though it requires a warm, moist, tropical to subtropical climate it can grow in a variety of light and temperature conditions, from full sun to a fairly heavy shade. It is popularly grown as a landscape plant and a security hedge due to its dense foliage and 2 pronged stout spines that makes it impossible for animals and people to get past it.The plant has shiny, thick and leathery dark green leaves. It bears star shaped flowers the emit a sweet jasmine like scent which deepens at night. The flowers blooms for several months at a stretch though the plant fruits in summer and autumn or in autumn and winter in warmer climates. In coastal areas and moderate climates it can be seen fruiting the year round.
Natal Plum Nutrition and Health Benefits
It strengthens and tones stomach and keep stomach related problems away.
Roots contain salycylic acid and cardiac glycosides causing a slight decrease in blood pressure.
It is low in cholesterol, sodium free, and vitamin C, B1, B2, A, calcium, protein, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, copper and is low in fat.
Diabetic ulcer: Paste of the root is applied over the diabetic ulcer.
It is known to prevent cells from damages, protects the teeth from decay and the gums from diseases.
It is favorable in reducing the blood sugar level and aids in curing Diabetes.
it is also good for the skin as it prevents pre-mature aging and offers other benefits as well because fruits contain powerful antioxidants.
Fever: Make Leave decoction of Carissa. Drink a cup of it twice a day.
It protects the heart from disease.
Internal bleeding: Eat 10 g ripe fruit of Carissa once a day. It helps to cure internal bleeding.
