Durian is a fruit of several tree species which belongs to genus Durio. About 30 has been recognized as Durio species and at least nine produce edible fruit with more than 300 named varieties in Indonesia, 100 in Malaysia and 100 in Thailand. Durians are known as king of fruits in some regions. Durians have large size, strong odor and rind is covered with thorn. Fruits are globose to ellipsoid measuring 10 – 15 cm in diameter. It has orange-yellow flesh. Seeds are glossy brown, ellipsoid about 4 cm x 2 cm. Leaves are elliptical to oblong and about 10-26 cm × 4-10 cm.
The outer skin or rind of the fruit has anti-bacterial properties. Study shows that polysaccharide, a carbohydrate in outer skin combats oral pathogens Streptococcus mutans and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. It helps to prevent its growth, disrupts structure and prevents dental caries. Polysaccharides prevent the interaction of bacteria with other healthy cells of the body. It helps to maintain proper oral hygiene. Moreover, the rind has anti-bacterial compounds preventing the growth of Klebsiella pneumonia which is harmful when spread to other parts of the body besides intestines.
Anti-inflammatory activity
Inflammation has a crucial role in initiation and progression of various diseases. The bioactive compounds found in durian fruit have anti-inflammatory properties. Durian pulp contains bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, flavonoids, flavonols and anthocyanins. It helps to inhibit synthesis and activity of pro-inflammatory compounds in the body and lowers overall inflammation. It blocks action of certain enzymes which are involved in production and also activity of inflammatory compounds.
Liver health
Durian fruit has high content of antioxidants, nutrients and bioactive compounds. The presence of quercetin inhibits toxic chemical induced liver damage. It improves liver structure, regeneration of liver cells and lowers collagen content which causes liver hardening. The decrease in collagen content results the structure of liver to become normal and improves liver function. It has antioxidants which prevents free radical effects. The presence of high oxidative stress depletes glutathione, a major antioxidant in liver cells. The intake of durian fruit restores glutathione levels which detoxifies liver and also strengthen it.
Improves lipid profile
Polysaccharide gels found in this exotic fruit are rich source of soluble fiber which helps to entrap liquids and lowers its release in the bloodstream. Furthermore, the presence of antioxidants prevents rise of plasma lipid level and also inhibits oxidation of LDL molecules. It prevents the chances of clot in arteries and blockage of arteries.
Culinary uses
Durians are consumed raw or combined with other tropical fruits such as mango, guava, pineapple and papaya.
It is also used to make smoothies with half cup of durian flesh and half cup of milk.
Add it to soups, curries to enhance food preparations.
Recommended intake
For healthy individuals: 80-100 grams
For diabetes mellitus: Around 2-3 durian seeds.
Precautions
High intake of durian fruit causes abdominal discomfort.
