History
The jackfruit tree, whose scientific name is Artocarpus heterophyllus, is believed to have originated in the humid forests of western India and Bangladesh. It later spread throughout tropical Asia and into Africa with Arab traders. It arrived in the Caribbean, and therefore in Martinique, in 1782, but the musky smell of its ripe fruit was off‑putting. It never achieved the popularity of the breadfruit tree!
It is even nicknamed “the poor man’s fruit.” Today, jackfruit is mainly cultivated in Southeast Asia, Brazil, and Haiti.
Varieties
There are three varieties of jackfruit:
- Hard jackfruit, whose flesh remains firm when ripe
- Sosso jackfruit, with softer flesh
- Honey jackfruit, with very sweet juice
Smaller than the breadfruit tree, the jackfruit tree has entire leaves that are oval to elliptical, and it produces enormous fruits that can weigh up to 50 kg. Jackfruit can grow both on the branches and directly on the trunk.
The fruit’s tough skin is covered with protrusions and turns yellowish when ripe. Its yellow pulp, sweet and either firm or soft depending on the variety, contains brown oval seeds.
Medicinal Properties
Three times richer in dietary fiber than rice, jackfruit provides the body with the elements needed to fight constipation. It also helps combat obesity and excess weight.
Its bark and leaves help accelerate wound healing.
Latex mixed with vinegar is said to promote the healing of abscesses, treat snake bites, and reduce glandular swelling.
The root is considered a remedy for skin diseases and asthma attacks; it treats diarrhea and reduces feverish states.
The seeds are believed to have aphrodisiac properties.
Uses
Jackfruit can be eaten raw or cooked. It can be grated or cut into pieces. It can be used in fruit salads and ice cream. It is even possible to make purée or jam from it once cooked.
The brown seeds are boiled or roasted and eaten like chestnuts. They are sometimes added to traditional dishes. Raw, they are not edible.
Jackfruit latex, found in all parts of the tree, was once used for its adhesive properties and to trap birds.
Jackfruit wood can be used in construction or in furniture making.
In Réunion, jackfruit is cooked with smoked pork to prepare the famous traditional dish ti’jaque boucané.
