Pineapple probably originated in Central and South America. The scientific name of pineapple is Ananas comosus. Christopher Columbus, on his second voyage, found this strange-looking fruit in the Caribbean Islands and named it the “Pine of the Indies”. Later, when it was brought to Europe, the Europeans were fascinated by the fruit and added their favorite fruit name apple after pine, thus it became “Pineapple”.
Add some fresh pineapple or pineapple juice to your diet and give your body a boost in health and healing. That’s the wonder of pineapple, a nutritionally packed significant tropical fruit.
Botanically speaking, pineapple or Ananas comosus is the plant of the Bromeliaceae family. The tree is an herbaceous perennial, 2 – 5 ft in height, with a rosette of long, waxy, pointed leaves. The small purple or red flowers are arranged in an inflorescence. Fruit is compound, oval to cylindrical in shape, with a tough, waxy rind. However, the flesh of the fruit is white or yellow, seedless, and extremely juicy when ripe.
While choosing pineapple don’t go for colors, go for the smell instead. Fresh, ripe pineapple gives a sweet, and fresh tropical smell. Avoid those pineapples that have any soft spots on the skin. The fruit remains well at room temperature. However, once it is cut, the pieces should be put in the refrigerator immediately.
The Scientific Name of Pineapple – Ananas comosus
The pineapple is a great source of vitamin A and C and also contains a small amount of vitamin B. Pineapple contains an important enzyme, Bromelain, which helps the digestive system and has anti-inflammatory properties. Bromelain is also used to fight heart disease, arthritis, and upper respiratory infections. Due to the high vitamin C content in this fruit, pineapple not only boosts the immune system but is also good for your oral health.
The pineapple pulp literally explodes natural sweetness when chewed. This has made the fruit an item of popularity. Other than eating fresh, pineapple juice is a favorite drink for gourmets. Apart from that, the pineapple is used widely to prepare jams, jellies, salads, ice cream, cakes, and pies.
