Stelechocarpus burahol

Burahol Fruit - Buah Kepel (Stelechocarpus burahol)

Stelechocarpus burahol, also known as kepel fruit, is a tropical fruit native to Indonesia, particularly found in the Java region. This fruit is notable not only for its unique taste and aroma but also for its historical significance and various uses in traditional medicine. The kepel fruit tree belongs to the family Annonaceae, which includes several other important fruit and timber trees.

Description

The Stelechocarpus burahol tree can grow up to 25 meters in height. It has large, glossy leaves and produces small, fragrant flowers. The fruit itself is round, about the size of a small apple, and turns from green to a yellowish color when ripe. The flesh of the fruit is sweet, with a texture similar to that of a mango but with a more aromatic flavor. It contains a single large seed.

Cultivation

Kepel fruit is primarily grown in gardens and traditional home compounds in Java. It thrives in tropical climates and requires a lot of moisture, making it somewhat challenging to cultivate outside its native habitat. Despite its delicious taste and potential health benefits, the kepel fruit is not widely cultivated on a commercial scale, which makes it a rare delicacy outside of Indonesia.

Historical Significance

Historically, the kepel fruit was highly valued in Javanese royal courts. It was believed to have the ability to neutralize body odor, which made it a favorite among the nobility in the days before modern deodorants. The fruit was so prized that, for a time, commoners were forbidden from consuming it, and it was grown exclusively for the royal family.

Uses

Beyond its consumption as a fresh fruit, Stelechocarpus burahol has several uses. In traditional Indonesian medicine, parts of the plant are used to treat various ailments. The leaves and bark are believed to have diuretic properties, while the fruit is said to help with kidney health. Additionally, the kepel fruit is sometimes used in cooking, adding a unique flavor to certain Javanese dishes.

Conservation Status

The kepel fruit tree is not currently listed as endangered, but it faces threats from habitat loss and the expansion of agricultural land. Efforts are being made in Indonesia to conserve this species, both for its cultural significance and potential health benefits.

See Also

• Tropical fruit
• Annonaceae
• Traditional medicine
• Conservation status