Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages around the world, with millions of people relying on it to kick-start their day. However, most people are unaware of the fact that the coffee bean is not the only edible part of the coffee plant. The coffee cherry, which is the fruit that encases the coffee bean, is a nutrient-rich food that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and as a food source.
What is Coffee Cherry?
Coffee cherry, also known as coffee fruit or coffee berry, is a small, red or yellow fruit that grows on the coffee plant. It is a drupe, which means that it has a hard stone in the center, similar to a peach or a plum. The coffee cherry is made up of several layers, including the skin, pulp, and seed. The seed, of course, is what we commonly refer to as the coffee bean.
HISTORY OF COFFEE CHERRY CONSUMPTION
The consumption of coffee cherry dates back centuries, to the indigenous tribes of Ethiopia. The tribes would crush the fruit and mix it with fat to create a stimulating paste. In some countries, such as Costa Rica and Brazil, coffee cherry is still consumed as a food source. It is often eaten raw, juiced, or cooked into jams and preserves.
NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS OF COFFEE CHERRY
Coffee cherry is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. The fruit also contains a number of polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
| — | — |
| Vitamin C | 35mg |
| Potassium | 450mg |
| Magnesium | 35mg |
| Fiber | 10g |
What are the Health Benefits of Coffee Cherry?
The health benefits of coffee cherry are numerous and well-documented. Some of the most significant benefits include:
ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES
The high antioxidant content of coffee cherry makes it an excellent food for protecting against oxidative stress and inflammation. Oxidative stress has been linked to a number of chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.
ANXIETY AND STRESS RELIEF
The polyphenols present in coffee cherry have been shown to have a positive effect on mood and cognitive function. The fruit contains a number of compounds that have been shown to reduce anxiety and stress levels, making it an excellent natural remedy for those suffering from anxiety disorders.
HEART HEALTH
The high levels of potassium, magnesium, and fiber in coffee cherry make it an excellent food for supporting heart health. The fruit has been shown to help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve overall cardiovascular function.
Uses of Coffee Cherry
Coffee cherry can be consumed in a number of ways, including:
DRINKS
Coffee cherry can be juiced or made into a tea, which is a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy the fruit. The juice can also be used as a base for smoothies and other beverages.
FOOD PRODUCTS
Coffee cherry can be used to make a number of food products, including jams, preserves, and chutneys. The fruit can also be dried and consumed as a snack.
COSMETICS
The antioxidants and polyphenols present in coffee cherry make it an excellent ingredient for skincare products. The fruit can be used to make a number of cosmetic products, including creams, lotions, and serums.
How to Incorporate Coffee Cherry into Your Diet
Incorporating coffee cherry into your diet is easier than you think. Here are a few ways to get started:
PURCHASE COFFEE CHERRY PRODUCTS
A number of companies now sell coffee cherry products, including juices, teas, and supplements. These products can be purchased online or at local health food stores.
MAKE YOUR OWN COFFEE CHERRY PRODUCTS
If you are feeling adventurous, you can try making your own coffee cherry products at home. This can include juicing the fruit, making tea, or creating your own jams and preserves.
GROW YOUR OWN COFFEE PLANT
If you live in a warm climate, you can try growing your own coffee plant. This will give you access to fresh coffee cherries, which you can use to make a number of delicious products.
Conclusion
Coffee cherry is a nutrient-rich food that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and as a food source. The fruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and has been shown to have a number of health benefits. From reducing anxiety and stress levels to supporting heart health, the benefits of coffee cherry are numerous. Whether you consume it as a juice, tea, or supplement, incorporating coffee cherry into your diet is an excellent way to improve your overall health and wellbeing.
What is a Coffee Cherry?
A coffee cherry is a small, red or yellow fruit that grows on coffee plants. It is the fruit that contains the coffee beans, which are actually seeds inside the fruit. The fruit is typically around 1-2 cm in diameter and has a sweet and slightly tart taste.
The outer skin of the coffee cherry is edible and can be consumed as is or used in various recipes. The pulp of the fruit is also edible, but it’s usually discarded during the coffee processing stage. The coffee beans inside the cherry are what are typically harvested, dried, and roasted to make the coffee we drink.
What are the health benefits of Coffee Cherry?
Coffee cherries are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against free radicals and oxidative stress. They also contain other nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and iron. Some studies have suggested that consuming coffee cherry extract may have anti-inflammatory properties and could help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
In addition to its potential health benefits, the antioxidants in coffee cherries may also have anti-aging effects, helping to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. More research is needed to confirm these potential benefits, but incorporating coffee cherry into one’s diet may have a range of positive effects on overall health and well-being.
How do I consume Coffee Cherry?
Coffee cherries can be consumed in a variety of ways, including eating them raw, making tea from the fruit, or adding them to smoothies. They can also be used in baked goods, such as cakes and muffins, or as a topping for salads and yogurt.
Dried coffee cherry powder can be added to food and drinks for an extra boost of antioxidants. Some companies also market coffee cherry extract in capsule or powder form, which can be added to drinks or taken as a supplement. It’s worth noting that whole coffee cherries are not commonly available for purchase, but the dried powder or extract can often be found online or in health food stores.
Can I grow my own Coffee Cherry plant?
Yes, it is possible to grow your own coffee cherry plant at home, provided you live in a suitable climate. Coffee plants prefer tropical or subtropical regions with high altitudes and well-defined wet and dry seasons. They require full sun to partial shade and well-draining acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
To grow a coffee cherry plant, start with a healthy seedling and provide it with the right conditions. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and fertilize regularly. Prune the plant to maintain a healthy shape and promote fruiting. It’s worth noting that growing coffee cherry plants can be challenging, and it may take several years for the plant to produce fruit.
Is Coffee Cherry expensive?
Whole coffee cherries are not commonly available for purchase and can be quite expensive. Dried coffee cherry powder or extract, on the other hand, can range in price from affordable to very expensive, depending on the quality and where it’s sourced. High-quality coffee cherry products can cost upwards of $20-$30 per ounce.
However, considering the potential health benefits and unique flavor of coffee cherry, some people may find it worth the investment. Additionally, if you’re able to grow your own coffee cherry plant, you may be able to harvest the fruit and enjoy it at a much lower cost.
Can I make Coffee Cherry tea at home?
Yes, you can make coffee cherry tea at home using dried coffee cherry powder or whole coffee cherries. Simply steep the powder or cherries in hot water to make a tea that’s rich in antioxidants and has a flavor that’s often described as fruity and slightly sweet.
To make the tea, combine 1-2 teaspoons of dried coffee cherry powder with 8-10 ounces of boiling water. Let it steep for 5-10 minutes, then strain and enjoy. You can add honey or lemon to taste. If using whole coffee cherries, simply steep them in hot water for a few minutes, then strain and discard the solids.
Can I use Coffee Cherry in baking?
Yes, coffee cherries can be used in baking to add a unique flavor and nutritional boost to a variety of treats. The fruit can be used to make jams, preserves, and sauces, or it can be incorporated into baked goods like cakes, muffins, and breads.
To use coffee cherry in baking, simply puree the fruit and add it to your favorite recipes. You can also use dried coffee cherry powder to add a flavor and nutritional boost to baked goods. Try using the powder in place of some of the flour in your favorite recipe, or add it to oatmeal or yogurt for a tasty and nutritious treat.